Cromwell is a charming town in New Zealand’s South Island, situated in the Central Otago region. It is located on the banks of Lake Dunstan, where the Kawarau River meets the lake, making it a beautiful destination.
Cromwell, a sub-region of Central Otago, has a rich history dating back to the Otago gold rush. Today, it offers visitors the opportunity to indulge in some of the best wines in the country.
Cromwell Historic Precinct
Cromwell has a rich history dating back to the 1860s gold rush. It used to be a bustling mining town!
However, in 1992, the construction of the Clyde Dam caused the main street and businesses to be completely submerged due to flooding.
Dedicated volunteers worked hard to move some of Cromwell’s original town center buildings to higher ground to preserve the town’s heritage. And they did a fantastic work.
If you visit Cromwell today, you can explore historic buildings such as London House Stables, Captain Barry’s Cottage, The Scotts Bake House, Belfast Store, and Jolly’s Seed & Grain Store.
You can also explore local galleries and support independent artists by purchasing unique souvenirs, homeware, and decorations.
Old Cromwell is also part of the Central Otago Arts Trail, which showcases local art galleries. The work they do is fantastic.
And that’s not all! Old Cromwell is a great place to grab some coffee or food while watching the bustling precinct or enjoying the serene view of Lake Dunstan.
Don’t forget to check out the small museum too! They have some fantastic photographs of the old main street, the businesses that once operated there, and how the landscape looked before the construction of the Clyde Dam. It’s really fascinating!
Overall, Old Cromwell is a testament to the town’s resilience and determination to preserve its history.
What is Cromwell, New Zealand, known for?
Cromwell is a well-known hub for fruit-growing. The town’s economy is primarily driven by this industry, with the locals taking great pride in producing fresh and juicy fruits that are hard to resist. During the summer, the streets are lined with roadside stalls selling various delicious fruits, from peaches to cherries, that are grown locally.
Cromwell’s fruit-growing industry has its roots in the town’s gold mining history. Gold miners who settled in the town in the late 1800s recognized the potential of the land and started cultivating stone fruits, which thrive in the area’s warm and dry climate. Today, Cromwell is renowned for producing stone fruits, including apricots, peaches, plums, and nectarines.
In addition to its fruit-growing industry, Cromwell is also home to picturesque vineyards that produce some of the best pinot noirs in New Zealand. Cromwell has become Central Otago’s most significant wine-growing sub-region thanks to the talented winemakers who call the area home. The Cromwell Basin boasts excellent winemaking facilities and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
Is Cromwell worth a visit?
Cromwell is a charming small town in the Central Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand. While it may often be overlooked for its more famous neighbors, Queenstown and Wanaka, it is a hidden gem that deserves a visit.
One of the town’s most attractive features is its unique and beautiful natural surroundings. Cromwell is situated on the shores of Lake Dunstan, offering stunning views of the lake and the rugged hills beyond. You can take a peaceful stroll along the lakefront or enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside. We loved it.
Cromwell town is not only naturally beautiful but also has a rich history. As someone who loves learning about history, I highly recommend visiting the Heritage Precinct to explore the town’s past. You will get a chance to check out the historic buildings and learn about the town’s gold rush history, as well as the construction of the Clyde Dam.
Cromwell is just a 50-minute drive from Queenstown, making it a perfect day trip destination. However, there are plenty of reasons to stay for longer. The town is home to some of New Zealand’s best wineries, including Felton Road, Mt. Difficulty, and Carrick. You can also enjoy world-class cycling on the nearby Otago Central Rail Trail or take a thrilling ride in a vintage race car at the Highlands Motorsport Park.
Overall, Cromwell is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and exciting activities. It is definitely worth a visit for anyone exploring the Central Otago region of New Zealand.