Local artisans, small cottage industries and fruit orchards characterise the shopping culture of the sun-kissed Central Otago region.
Find a bespoke treasure for a gift, visit an art gallery or head to a farmers' market – the produce and artisan goodies you’ll find are are top notch.
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you visit this unique Central Otago heritage attraction. With original and reconstructed buildings from the old main street of 1860’s gold rush Cromwell, there are fantastic art galleries, a working Goldsmith & Jeweller and great coffee on offer.
Don’t miss the Art Cut Gallery, showcasing a range of sculptures and paintings; the Hullabaloo Art Space – known for its photography and ceramic exhibitions from local artists – and the charming Tent House, where you’ll find a range of natural lavender products.
The small township of Clyde is steeped in gold rush history. Experience it for yourself when you visit the Sunderland Street Historic Precinct. Stone walls and curb sides, the Dunstan Times Building, Hartley Arms Hotel, the court house and the post office all transport you back to the days of gold fever. The precinct makes for a unique atmosphere to explore the local boutiques, galleries and cafes.
Love New Zealand Merino wool? Stop in at Touch Yarns and pick up some of this high quality wool, ideal for knitting, weaving or embroidery. Central Gourmet Galleria stocks distinctive jewellery, clothing, prints and local wines, while the Melanie Eade Art Gallery showcases work inspired by the beauty of Central Otago.
The Practice – Ranfurly
A gift gallery offering a great range of souvenirs, local art work, clothing and products, The Practice is a transformed dental centre originally built in Art Deco style in 1950. Learn the stories and history of Maniototo while you shop here.
Lorimer Knives
Would an artisan knife crafted by a local kiwi knife maker make the perfect gift for somebody back home? If so, head to the workshop of Peter Lorimer in Omakau. Drop in, see his workshop in action and order your own bespoke, kiwi-made knife.
Perriam Fashions
Hidden amongst the small roadside community of Tarras, Perriam Fashions showcase kiwi Cristina Perriam’s merino fashion range. Made from merino wool sourced from her father’s nearby Bendigo High Country Station, purchasing a piece of her high-quality clothing makes for a fantastic reminder of your time in New Zealand.
Cromwell Farmers' Market – Held in the Cromwell Heritage Precinct every Sunday during summer from 9am, this is a small and lively market that conveys a sense of ‘market square’. Feast on fresh stone fruits, local bread & cheeses, olive oils, berry fruits and organic beer – it’s a great place to stock up on a bag full of picnic goodies.
Alexandra Summer Markets – Organised by the ‘Four Marketeers’, a group of four local women with a long involvement in markets, the Alexandra Summer Markets are located in Pioneer Park, Alexandra. Every Saturday at 9am during December, January and February the park comes alive with friendly locals selling produce, craft food, imported items and second hand goods.
Are you self-driving in Central Otago? Sample the region’s famous summer fruits from one of the many roadside stalls in Roxburgh, Alexandra and Cromwell. Whether it’s an elegant Central Otago Apricot or a dark red juicy cherry, the local fruit on offer here truly is top-notch.
