Alexandra

Alexandra, a sun-drenched town in Central Otago, is the heart of New Zealand's stone fruit and wine country. Nestled along the Clutha River, this laid-back settlement offers a unique blend of gold rush history, dramatic landscapes, and a thriving food scene. The surrounding hills are dotted with historic mining sites and the famous 'Alexandra Clock'—a floral clock on a hillside. Come for the apricots, stay for the bike trails and the eerie beauty of the Manuherikia Valley.

Highlights & What to See

• Central Otago Wine Region – Explore cellar doors in Alexandra and nearby Clyde, specializing in Pinot Noir and aromatic whites. Many offer tastings with mountain views.
• Alexandra Fruit Growing Region – Visit in summer for stone fruit (apricots, peaches, cherries) direct from orchards. The Blossom Festival in spring is a local highlight.
• Otago Central Rail Trail – Cycle or walk this 150-km trail from Clyde to Middlemarch, passing through Alexandra. The section along the Clutha River is particularly scenic.
• Historic Clyde – Just 8 km away, this charming gold-rush town has well-preserved 19th-century buildings, boutique shops, and excellent cafés.
• Manuherikia River Walkway – A gentle riverside path perfect for birdwatching and spotting the iconic Alexandra Bridge.
• Alexandra Hillside Clock – A giant floral clock planted on a hillside, visible from the town centre. Best viewed from the lookout on State Highway 8.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day exploring Alexandra and its surrounds. If you're cycling the Otago Central Rail Trail, plan an overnight stop in Alexandra to rest and sample the local wine and produce. For a relaxed itinerary, combine a morning at a winery with an afternoon walk along the river and a visit to Clyde. Two days allow time for a longer bike ride or a scenic drive up the Manuherikia Valley.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Clyde – Just 8 km west, a historic gold-rush town with excellent cafés and the start of the Otago Central Rail Trail.
• Queenstown – 1.5 hours west, the adventure capital with bungee jumping, skiing, and lake cruises.
• Wanaka – 1.5 hours north-west, a lakeside town with hiking, skiing, and the famous Wanaka Tree.
• Dunedin – 2 hours south-east, a city of Victorian architecture, wildlife, and the Otago Peninsula.
• Roxburgh – 30 minutes south, another fruit-growing town with the Roxburgh Gorge and a historic dam.

Please check official sources for current details.