Arts, Culture & Fashion
If it feels like you’re driving through a painting, you probably are.
Central Otago’s rugged landscapes, soft light and a fast-flourishing palette of colours gifted by the seasons has always attracted and inspired creative people. We are a community rich in art, culture and fashion.
Local artisans and craftspeople are born from, and inspired by, the tough types who first settled here. Our resilient ancestors sowed many creative seeds and taught us that good buggers, when tested, can think differently, dig deep and create something outstanding.
Oils to watercolours, pottery to photography, food to fashion – creativity is a natural phenomenon in this colourful world of difference that is Central Otago. Even the old stone cottages and contemporary buildings are designs borne of the landscape and schist rock.
Art galleries and craft shops can be found in the small towns, revealing the talents of local artists and the opportunity to take home a true piece of Central Otago.
Unexpected treasures can be found in Central Otago, created by the true identities of the region, the locals.
Central Otago Arts Trail
Arts, Culture & Fashion
Step away from the hectic and indulge your senses in local artistic talent. With over 40 studios and galleries to peruse, take your time to explore the Central Otago Arts Trail.
Central Otago Fashion Story
Arts, Culture & Fashion
The region’s landscape creates the perfect backdrop for adventure clothing, high country fashion and textiles. Discover the history and evolution of the innovative local designers that transform fibre into fashion.
Art Galleries
Arts, Culture & Fashion
There’s a wealth of choice – see the region’s largest collection at Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery and pick and mix your favourites from a range of smaller galleries and studios.
Theatre, Performance and Music
Arts, Culture & Fashion
Find out about theatre, musical and performance art productions across the region, or relax and watch a movie at one of our comfy and cosy cinemas in Alexandra, Clyde, Cromwell or Roxburgh.
Exhibitions & Events
Arts, Culture & Fashion
Check out Central’s exhibitions and events, including designer woollen wearables at the WoolOn fashion show, the Teviot Tartan Awards and the Central Otago Arts Gold Awards.
OUR REGIONAL VALUES
Make a Difference
Be at the cutting edge, setting directions and accepting challenges.
Respecting Others
Take the time to listen and understand other people’s opinions and cultural differences.
Embracing Diversity
Be open to new ideas, open to exploring the possibilities and appreciate the strengths and talents each person brings.
Adding Value
Always ask ourselves is there a better way – one that achieves a premium status, quality experience or interaction.
Having Integrity
Seek to be open and honest in all our interactions.
Learning from the past
Choose to learn from past experiences with the future generations in mind.
Making a sustainable difference
Make decisions with the community in mind and in harmony with the natural environment so we can help create the kind of place we can be proud of.
Protecting our rich heritage
Protect and celebrate our rich heritage in landscapes, architecture, flora, fauna and cultural heritage.
Meeting our obligations
Do the right thing by our region and check what legal requirements need to be met before you get started.