Feel like a Day trip to cromwell?

If you’re looking to explore the stunning landscapes between Queenstown and Cromwell, this day trip to Cromwell is a delightful journey about 55 kilometers long, packed with picturesque stops and activities.

Queenstown to the historic Kawarau Bridge and AJ Hackett Bungy

Head out along State Highway 6 for around 20 minutes to the historic Kawarau Bridge. This is not just any bridge – it’s home to the original bungee jump! Whether you're ready for an adrenaline rush or prefer to cheer on the jumpers from the sidelines, it's a thrilling sight and the perfect photo op. We did the jump many years ago and can highly recommend it - it's a once in a lifetime treat. Here's a grainy picture of Kim from 1998.

Kawarau Bridge to Gibbston Valley Winery

A few kilometres further along the highway brings you to the Gibbston Valley, famously known as the "Valley of Vines."

Here, you can stop off at one of the celebrated wineries, like the Gibbston Valley Winery (around 24 km from Queenstown), to sample some world-renowned Pinot Noir – a taste you won't forget!

Next stop on your day trip to Cromwell is the Goldfield's Mining Centre

Another 20 minutes or so brings you to the historic Goldfields Mining Centre. Here, you can wander through remnants of the gold rush era and even try your hand at gold panning.

The rugged landscapes also offer excellent photo moments, capturing the essence of New Zealand’s rich history. There are organised tours of the mining relics, and we are always amazed at how rugged the landscape is, and how difficult life must have been for the early settlers.

the Goldfeld's Mining Centre to Cromwell

The rugged Kawarau Gorge was carved by the Kawarau River and provides perfect vantage points for breathtaking photographs. Keep your eyes on the road and your camera ready!

Finally, finish up your journey arriving in Cromwell, celebrated for its giant fruit sculpture and classic car displays at Highlands  Motorsport Park, which also offers a range of thrilling driving experiences.

While you are here, take the time to visit the historic Heritage Precinct. After the Clyde dam was built, the town's main street was submerged under the waters of Lake Dunstan. But through lots of hard work, some of the original gold rush era buildings were rebuilt on higher ground, creating the Cromwell Heritage Precinct.

These days those buildings house a range of businesses, overlooking Lake Dunstan.

While you are in the region, take the opportunity to visit one of Cromwell's wineries, take the kids for a game of mini golf, or hire a bike and explore some of New Zealand's finest trails like the Otago Central Rail Trail, or for experienced riders, the challenging Lake Dunstan Trail.

We hope you enjoy every moment of this amazing day trip to Cromwell! Happy travels!

You can search a range of activities in Cromwell here

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