Queenstown to Middlemarch small-group tour (One-Way)

Follow the trails of pioneers, gold rush legends, and breathtaking landscapes on this unforgettable journey from Queenstown to Middlemarch, an odyssey through the heart of Central Otago.

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Queenstown, a vibrant alpine town world-famous for its dramatic scenery, adventure sports, and cinematic landscapes. Settle into one of our luxurious Mercedes-Benz vehicles and travel in comfort and style as you depart this hub of excitement and natural beauty, heading into a region shaped by gold rush history, carved by ancient rivers, and rich with untold stories.

Winding through gorges, past lakes, and into preserved gold rush towns, you’ll explore the best of Central Otago before reaching Middelmarch. 

Itinerary Highlights:

1. Queenstown
   Begin your journey with a hotel pickup in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. As you depart, travel east through the iconic Gibbston wine region and the dramatic Kawarau Gorge, where gold rush history and rugged beauty combine.

   
   

2. Lake Dunstan & Cromwell
   Drive alongside the shimmering waters of Lake Dunstan and Cromwell, a town rich in gold mining history and nestled at the confluence of the Clutha and Kawarau Rivers. 




3. Dunstan House, Clyde (30 mins)
   Stop for morning tea (available for purchase) at the historic Dunstan House, a beautifully restored 1898 hotel that once served gold prospectors and travelers. Its warm hospitality and antique charm make it a highlight of the journey.

   
   

4. Ophir Bridge
   Pause for photos at this picturesque 1880 suspension bridge — a testament to 19th-century engineering that spans the Manuherikia River in one of Central Otago’s oldest settlements.

   
   

5. St Bathans
   Wander through this atmospheric ghost town, where gold once ruled and stories still echo. Marvel at the haunting Blue Lake, formed by mining, and explore well-preserved buildings from a bygone era.




6. Middlemarch
   Nestled at the foot of the Rock and Pillar Range, Middlemarch is a charming rural town that marks the start (or end!) of the iconic Otago Central Rail Trail. With its wide skies, rustic landscapes, and warm southern hospitality, it’s the perfect place to experience the quiet beauty of inland Otago. Whether you’re soaking in the history of the old rail line, enjoying a coffee in a local café, or just taking in the dramatic high country scenery, Middlemarch offers a peaceful pause and a true slice of classic Kiwi heartland.

Tour Inclusions:

• Small group experience (max 15 guests)

• Fully guided road journey from Queenstown to Middlemarch

• Luxury Mercedes-Benz transport

• Morning tea stop at Dunstan House (food available for purchase)

• Water and snacks provided

• Hotel pickup in Queenstown

At Cheeky Kiwi Travel, we believe the journey is just as memorable as the destination. With passionate guides, thoughtfully designed itineraries, and our signature small-group approach, we turn travel into a rich and personal experience — one full of surprises, stories, and scenic wonders.

Questions? Visit our FAQs page — we’re here to help!