Summer in Otago is a season of beauty, sunshine, and endless possibilities. Whether you're seeking adrenaline, scenic relaxation, or a taste of local wine, Otago has something for everyone. Here are some must-do activities to make the most of your summer in this stunning region:
1. Get Your Thrills at Oxbow Adventure Co.
We may be biased but of course top of the list is a day of adventure with us at Oxbow Adventure Co.! For adrenaline-lovers, we’ve got everything you need to get your heart racing. Try clay target shooting with friends, experience the wild excitement of the Off-Roader, or cool off with a splash on our Jet Sprint Boats. Even if you just want to relax with a cold beer in the sun and watch the action, Oxbow is the place to be. Don't miss out on an epic day of thrills and unforgettable moments!
2. Explore the Bannockburn Sluicings
For a more relaxed yet fascinating experience, the Bannockburn Sluicings offer a unique walk or bike trail. This 3.5 km loop takes you through a desert-like landscape shaped by historic water-blasting operations that date back to Otago’s gold-mining days. Wander among rock tailings, water races, and caves as you explore the remnants of human ambition and natural wonder. It’s a perfect spot to get your daily steps in while enjoying Otago’s stunning scenery.
3. Tackle the Dunstan Trail
If you’re up for adventure, the Dunstan Trail is a must-ride! Whether you bring your own bike or rent one locally, this trail connects the heritage towns of Cromwell and Clyde, winding through landscapes marked by nature and shaped by the determination of gold miners and dam-builders. Along the trail, you’ll ride over clip-on boardwalks, cross an 86-meter suspension bridge, and marvel at impressive rock walls, all crafted by world-class trail builders. It’s a scenic, historical journey you won’t forget!
4. Beach BBQs with Friends
There’s nothing like a summer BBQ by the beach! Head to Frankton Beach, where the water is warm, the views are incredible, and the sun sticks around until nearly 10 PM! Another fantastic option is St. Omer Park in Queenstown, where you can BBQ while enjoying panoramic views of the Remarkables and Queenstown Gardens. It’s a prime spot to take in the lively scene of Queenstown Bay and enjoy a classic Kiwi BBQ with friends.
5. Dive into Water Activities in Queenstown and Frankton
Otago’s lakes make it perfect for all kinds of water adventures. Try aqua biking, kayaking, or paddleboarding in Queenstown Bay with Paddle Queenstown. Or, for the thrill-seekers, there’s jet skiing and white-water rafting—an ideal way to make the most of the water on those hot summer days!
6. Indulge in a Wine Tasting at Kinross Winery
If you prefer something more laid-back, a wine experience at Kinross Winery in Gibbston Valley is a must. Located just down the road from Oxbow, Kinross offers tastings of Otago’s finest wines paired with artisanal cheeses. Spend a leisurely afternoon sipping wine, surrounded by stunning mountain views and lush vineyards—a quintessential Otago summer experience.
Whether you're in search of heart-pounding adventures, a scenic escape, or a relaxing day with a glass of wine, Otago has it all. Make the most of this beautiful region and create unforgettable memories this summer!
Oxbow Adventure Co. is stoked to announce the expansion of our Sales Team! We’re super excited to introduce two new members: Tim Bayliss and Tracy Cui.
Tim Bayliss joins us in the Local Sales role, bringing seven years of experience in the tourism industry.
Tim Bayliss is taking on the role as our Local Sales superstar. With seven years of adventure tourism experience under his belt, Tim is no stranger to the thrills of the industry. Originally from Tauranga, Tim has made the South Island his home for many years. Tim has a passion for people and selling our products, not only this but he is very hands on with operations, including driving our Off-Roaders, Jet Sprint Boats and instructing our Clay Target Range. We’re beyond excited to see how his proven industry knowledge and experience will drive our team—and our clients—toward even greater heights!
Tim is excited to develop new and enhance existing relationships and contribute to driving growth with Local Booking Agents.
We are equally excited to welcome Tracy Cui in a newly created role of Business Development Manager - Asia. Tracy’s career in tourism began at Ngai Tahu Tourism (NTT), where she held the role of Chinese Market Territory Manager for South Island products, developing sales growth for renowned businesses such as Shotover Jet, Dart River Jet, and Franz Josef Glacier Guides. Her exceptional performance led to her promotion to North Asian Market Manager, overseeing NTT’s product portfolio across both islands.
From here, Tracy moved Skyline Enterprises as Asia Market Manager, where she drove activity sales iconic attractions of Skyline Queenstown and Rotorua, Totally Tourism and Blue Peaks Lodge. In her most recent role, as Business Development Manager-Asia at Destination Queenstown, Tracy played a pivotal role in developing strategic initiatives that supported the re-entry of Destination Queenstown members into Eastern markets post-pandemic.
In the past six months, we've had the honour of hosting Jack and Blake for their Dream Days.
“Dream Days is a charitable initiative of Lifetime. The idea is to connect everyday kiwis, families, businesses, sports clubs or even schools to organise one day to provide a meaningful experience to a candidate family who has a child affected by a health condition or disability.”
Sometimes all the candidate families need, is a distraction from the challenges they face on a day-to-day basis and that is where we come in alongside Highlands Motorsport Park, both of these boys were able to experience EPIC adrenaline packed Dream Days!
Both Jack and Blake embarked on unforgettable adventures with us. They both jumped in our Ultimate Off-Roader, and Blake, also got to experience the speed of our Jet Sprints Boats.
Witnessing the sheer joy and delight on Jack and Blake's faces was a heartwarming reminder of the impact these experiences have on them and collaborating with Dream Days by Lifetime to bring smiles to these remarkable kids is always a privilege and a joy for our team.
Make sure to check out both of their EPIC Dream Days below.
A group of 25 Kiwi tourism leaders, including our very own Product and Business Development Manager, Fleur Casey has embarked on a tour of the United States. Their mission: to promote a combined Auckland-Queenstown experience to American travelers, showcasing the beauty and culture of New Zealand.
This initiative follows a notable increase in US visitor arrivals, with an increase of 4 percent compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019-2020 and a staggering 31 percent increase compared to 2022-2023. With enhanced air connectivity between North America and New Zealand, the timing couldn't be better to encourage travel.
The tour includes visits to seven US cities, where the operators are advocating for three-night stays in Auckland and Queenstown as integral parts of any New Zealand itinerary. These cities offer unique experiences, with a focus on the Tiaki Promise, which aims to preserve New Zealand's natural beauty and indigenous heritage.
Annie Dundas, Director of Destination at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, is excited about the growing interest in New Zealand among American travelers.
Mat Woods, CEO of Destination Queenstown, highlights the importance of responsible tourism, encouraging visitors to engage with local culture while minimising their environmental impact.
Scott Tasker, Chief Customer Officer at Auckland Airport, points out the air connectivity between North America and New Zealand, making it easier than ever for travelers to reach these destinations.
The collaboration between Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, Auckland Airport, and Destination Queenstown aims to promote the Auckland-Queenstown experience to North American leisure, business, and incentive travelers.
As New Zealand continues to attract American travelers, the partnership between Kiwi tourism leaders and their American counterparts promises to strengthen tourism ties between the two nations.
The other operators involved: Accor Hotels, Altitude Tours, BLACK NZ, Destination Queenstown, Explore Group New Zealand, Fullers 360, Glenorchy Air, Heliworks Queenstown, Heritage Hotels, Millennium & Copthorne Hotels, Ngāi Tahu Tourism, RealNZ, Skyline Queenstown, Southern Discoveries, Sudima Hotels, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, Te Arai Links, Te Manutaupua, The Big Foody Food Tours, The Helicopter Line, Wētā Workshop Unleashed & Ziptrek Ecotours.
With Christmas just around the corner, it's the perfect time to start thinking about unique and exciting gifts for your loved ones. Whether you're shopping for your parents, partner, children, or other family members, Queenstown offers a wide range of options that will make this holiday season unforgettable. From thrilling adventures at Oxbow to delicious dining experiences at Panners and Margos, here's a comprehensive guide to the best Christmas gifts in Queenstown.
Oxbow Adventures: A Gift of Adrenaline
For the adrenaline junkies in your life, Oxbow Adventure Co has you covered. We offer a variety of thrilling experiences, and our Thrill Seeker Package is bound to get hearts racing for the gift to always remember when you experience the rush of speeding around our custom-built Jet Sprint course, embark on an exhilarating ride in our one-of-a-kind Ultimate Off-Roader, and test your precision with Clay Target Shooting on our specially designed compact sporting field. It's an adventure like no other.
If you're seeking a perfect blend of adrenaline and relaxation, Oxbow's Taste & Thrill Packages are ideal. And for those who prefer a physical gift, check out our epic merchandise selection, which includes hoodies, T-shirts, hats, and stubby coolers. There's something for every adventurer.
Margos: Savor the Flavors of Mexico
Nestled in the heart of Queenstown, Margos is a haven for Mexican cuisine lovers. With a diverse menu of starters and mains meant for sharing, Margos creates an unforgettable dining experience. Don't forget to indulge in their mouthwatering Margaritas. Whether you're a local or just passing through, consider purchasing a gift voucher from Margos to treat your loved ones to a delectable Mexican feast.
Panners Bar & Kitchen: The Perfect Post-Adventure Retreat
Just a short 10-minute drive from us, Panners Bar & Kitchen is the ideal spot to unwind after an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Enjoy a refreshing cold beer and a delicious pizza while taking in the stunning views. Panners offers a scrumptious array of dishes, from sharing plates to hearty main meals, making it a must-visit location in Queenstown.
Highlands: Ultimate Gifts for Auto Enthusiasts
Highlands is the go-to gift for anyone with a passion for cars. Whether you're shopping for your dad, brother, teenage son, or car enthusiast, Highlands offers a range of unique experiences and gifts. Explore their impressive collection of vehicles in the museum, experience the thrill of a high-speed Ferrari ride on the track, or even enjoy the "loo with a view." Highlands provides a variety of options to cater to every car lover's dreams.
Kinross: Romantic Escapes for Partners and Parents
For those seeking the perfect romantic gift for their partner or a peaceful retreat for their parents, consider a night at Kinross. This beautiful accommodation is nestled among the vines, providing a serene setting for relaxation. Sip on local wine as you soak in the hot tub, making it a memorable and tranquil experience for your loved ones.
