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The Waka Kotahi NZ Transportation Agency will add the new Central Otago Tourist Route to its car tourism map.
A nationally recognized 336-kilometer “road trip” through Central Otago will make it easy for Kiwis to explore their own backyard.
The Waka Kotahi NZ Transportation Agency has approved a tourist route from Central Otago through Central Otago when traveling from Dunedin to Queenstown or vice versa. The route passes through Middlemarch, Ranfurly, Alexandra, Clyde, and Arrowtown.
Tourism Central Otago CEO Dylan Rushbrook said the route would be added to the car tourism map, linking with other nationally recognized tourist routes.
Tourism agencies and city councils have been working on the project for 16 months, he said.
The work included raising funds for two new electric vehicle charging stations, marketing, creating interpretation panels to tell the “key stories along the route” and developing sidings.
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Otago Central District Mayor Tim Cadogan says the tourist trail will ensure that the benefits of tourism are spread throughout Otago.
Central Otago Mayor Tim Cadogan said the new route would encourage visitors to explore the district more.
“It’s a road trip that will appeal to people who not only drive from A to B, but want to experience a unique part of the world with beauty all around and an open road in front of them.”
Queenstown Lakes Mayor Jim Boult said his council was delighted to be part of the new route.
Kavinda Herath / Things
Queenstown Lakes District Mayor Jim Boult says the tourist trail makes it easy for Kiwis to “go out and walk around the most beautiful part of the country.”
“A lot of our visitors right now are New Zealanders going out and exploring their own backyard.
“The development of a new tourist route in our region is a timely addition to our offering.”
Dunedin Mayor Aaron Hawkins said the project was a great example of the joint work of Otago councils and tourism organizations.
“The rich history and exceptional landscapes along this route are an important part of who we are.”
The route will be officially launched later this year.
