Small in size but rich in spirit and heritage, Arrowtown is a must-visit for any luxury holiday in Otago. Steeped in gold rush history yet brimming with modern boutique stores, the town perfectly blends past and present. From exploring its charming streets to enjoying the wide range of activities on offer, a stay in Arrowtown promises an unforgettable experience.
Arrowtown is a true foodieโs paradise, offering a wealth of dining experiences. From hidden bars to spacious outdoor eateries, and from classic Kiwi cuisine to authentic Thai flavorsโwhere will you start?
To help you get started, weโve hand-picked just a few of our favourite spots from the townโs vibrant culinary scene.
Since opening in December 2023, Arrowtownโs newest luxury destination, Ayrburn, has quickly become a vibrant hub for wine, food, and relaxation. The precinct features multiple venues to suit every taste: enjoy casual bistroโstyle dining at The Woolshed, wine tasting at The Manure Room, cocktails at The Burr Bar, or sweet treats at The Dairy.
Beyond its culinary offerings, Ayrburn boasts beautifully manicured gardens, scenic walking and cycling paths, a vineyard, and open-air event lawns, making it a welcoming retreat for locals, holidaymakers, and families alike.
Tucked away on a laneway in the heart of historic Arrowtown, Cave offers a warm, intimate dining experience that beautifully blends the flavours of Japan with the relaxed spirit of the Otago region.
From delicate rawโfish sashimi and bold, flavourful tapasโstyle dishes to a carefully curated selection of sake, Japanese whisky, wine and shลchลซ, Cave offers a selection of sharing plates. The lowโlit, โcave-likeโ atmosphere invites you savour the flavours and soak up the ambience.
Bask in the sunโkissed garden, reminiscent of an elegant garden party, or retreat indoors for a more intimate experience. True to its name – Mora, meaning โto lingerโ or โpauseโ – this relaxed luxury dining destination offers a sensory experience that delights the palate. Its popular cellar door and restaurant live up to every expectation.
Enjoy an evening of authentic Spanish tapas and crisp cocktails in this charming mainโstreet eatery. La Rumblaโs lively atmosphere draws you in, while its attentive service ensures youโll return. With a focus on casual elegance over formalities, itโs the perfect spot to connect with friends and enjoy a relaxed night out.
Aosta is a celebration of Italian cuisine, where traditional dishes are crafted with premium ingredients and paired with the regionโs finest local wines. Combining classic flavours with contemporary design, Aosta remains a mustโvisit for an unforgettable dining experience in Arrowtown.
Arrowtown and its surrounding areas offer plenty of different trails to explore, with paths linking through to Macetown and Queenstown. Whether you fancy tackling a challenging peak or enjoying a leisurely riverside stroll, thereโs no shortage of options.
For a gentle walk, try the Lake Hayes Walkway. This family-friendly loop weaves across boardwalks through wetlands and follows gravel paths along the rest of the route. The lakeโs still waters create breathtaking, mirror-like reflections that are impossible to look away from.
For a more invigorating adventure, Sawpit Gully Track offers an 8km moderate loop starting from the Chinese Settlement carpark. The trail takes you through a mix of terrain, including some steep sections and stream crossings – sturdy walking shoes are a must. Hopping across stones in the streams adds to the fun, and once you reach the saddle, youโre rewarded with sweeping views over the Wakatipu Basin.
Insider Tip: Tackle the trail clockwise for an easier ascent and a steeper, but exhilarating, descent.
Well-known local artist with private collections worldwide, Jenny Mehrtens showcases a selection of statement pieces here at her Arrowtown gallery. With a penchant for gold leaf and oak, her striking works of art are a visual treat.
Set your eyes upon some of New Zealandโs finest contemporary art at the Nadene Milne Gallery. With pieces from celebrated artists such as Judy Millar, Max Gimblett & Tony de Lautour along with talks from senior curators and artists, this is a creative corner worth visiting.
Little Hut Gallery with wire weaved baskets or Fiona Garlicks sculpting studio housing her renowned bronze statues are just some of the other galleries that comprise the healthy gallery collection waiting for you to immerse yourself in.
After a busy day exploring, head on over to Dorothy Browns Boutique cinema. Catch classics such as Charlie Chaplin in the boutique gin bar, or head into one of the cosy screens and grab yourself a seat on the couch. With showings of both new releases and popular favourites, there is something for everyone.
To fully enjoy this unique experience, ask the host about wine and cheese platter options.
The streets of Arrowtown are scattered with boutique stores featuring designer items and quirky local pieces. Head to stores such as Bunnies Clothing, Angel Divine, Francis Patterson & Seletti Concept for really special finds.
From clothing and beauty, to homeware and gifts, your suitcases will be overflowing on the way home!
Located just a stoneโs throw away from the famous Gibbston Valley wine region, a stay in Arrowtown is not complete without a wine tasting tour. With plenty of wineries to choose from, there is a tipple for every tongue.
Your driver guide will do all of the planning, making for a seamless experience of fine wine tasting.
Sit back, relax and enjoy!
Thanks to its inviting atmosphere and exciting activities, Arrowtown captures the hearts of those who holiday there. Should you wish to experience this for yourself, we have a wonderful selection of luxury holiday homes and activities to choose from, offering you a relaxing sanctuary after a busy day exploring Arrowtown and its surrounds.
Sleeps 8 | 6 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms
Beautifully spacious with plenty to offer, this home is a real treat.
Sip mimosas by the infinity pool or challenge the family to a game of tennis or petanque. Sporting lots of premium features, this luxury villa is not one to be missed!ย
Sleeps 10 | 5 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms
Light and airy, with just a short stroll to Arrowtownโs main street, this home combines luxury with an unbeatable location. Watch the sun set over the surrounding mountains, or unwind in the media room, this property offers a peaceful sanctuary to return to after a day full of adventure.
Sleeps 14 | 7 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms
Just 5 minutesโ drive to Arrowtown, this homely property oozes rustic character and comfort. Set on 11.5 acres of land, with a bubbling stream, cosy open fireplaces, tennis court, spa pool, sauna and swimming pool โ this is a paradise within itself.
Sleep 8 | 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms
Situated on a peaceful 5 star resort with golf course, spa pools, swimming pool and more โ there is plenty to do even before you explore Arrowtown. Each individually designed home offers a wonderful outdoor area for you to soak up the landscape around you.
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