Cromwell (New Zealand)

town in Central Otago District, Otago Region, New Zealand

Cromwell, originally known as "The Junction", is a town in central Otago, New Zealand. It sits right at the confluence of the Clutha and Kawarau Rivers, on the South Island. The settlement expanded rapidly after 1862, when news went out that gold was discovered nearby. It's surrounded by rather picturesque landscapes, in which both rivers have cut beautiful gorges. It's also knowns for it's vineyards.

A view of Cromwell and Lake Dunstan

Get in

State Highways 6 and 8 are the main roads in and out, with the first connecting to Wanaka and Queenstown, while the latter connects north and south to the Lindis Pass and Alexandra. The nearest airport is at Queenstown.

Get around

Having transportation of your own is most convenient. It's possible to rent cars of -better yet- campervans at the airport. Hiking and biking are great ways to explore the direct surroundings.

See

  • Cromwell Gorge. This famous gorge lies on road to Alexandra. 
  • Former goldfields. 

Do

  • Lake Dunstan. The blue waters of this man-made reservoir are a popular place for all kinds of water sports and activities. Swimming, fishing, waterskiing and rowing are just a few of your options. 
  • Kiwi Water Park an inflatable water park situated on Lake Dunstan

Buy

There's a mall with a range of shops. The Paper Plus there offers postal services.

Eat

Drink

Sleep

Go next

Nearby towns include Wanaka, Alexandra and Clyde. Queenstown is about 60 km away.

Routes through Cromwell
Wanaka ←  N  W  → Queenstown
Omarama ←  N  S  → Alexandra


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