Lifestyle

Discover Central Otago: Annabel Langbein’s Beloved New Zealand Gem

Byforwomenmagazine January 22, 2026January 18, 2026

Discover Central Otago: Annabel Langbein’s Beloved New Zealand Gem

Wānaka-based food writer Annabel Langbein adores the distinct seasonal changes in pristine Central Otago and continues to uncover stunning places to explore.

What draws you to Central Otago?

Central Otago is my favorite place in New Zealand. I first visited during a family road trip as a child. We drove along the Clutha River before it was flooded. It was apricot season, and we stopped at a roadside stall to enjoy the most delicious, fragrant apricots I had ever tasted.

When did you return?

I came back with my husband early in our marriage. He was an avid skier, and Central Otago was his favorite skiing destination in New Zealand.

What do you enjoy doing there?

For me, Central Otago is all about the outdoors. There are countless walks, bike rides, and places to explore. You can go boating or skiing, and it’s less than two hours to the West Coast and about three hours to the south coast.

What makes this place special?

The landscapes are vast and powerful, and you experience four distinct seasons. In summer, the days are long, and you can still be swimming in the sun at 8:30 PM. In autumn, the landscape turns into a vibrant display of colors before the trees lose their leaves. Winter brings darkness, bare trees, and cold temperatures. Then, spring arrives with new beginnings.

Any tips for things to do in the area?

There are many great hikes, both short and long. The Department of Conservation has a comprehensive list, so you can choose based on your time and fitness level. The same goes for bike trails. Simply getting out into nature makes you feel part of this extraordinary landscape, which is unique in New Zealand.

Favorite places to eat?

Home is always a great option, thanks to my prolific vegetable garden. Wānaka has a fantastic coffee culture with many places to choose from. One of our favorite spots to meet friends is the Bannockburn Hotel. The food is excellent—very fresh and casual tapas style. They have a fantastic wine list and very welcoming staff. Some of the wineries in the region also offer great lunches.

Spots to check out?

If we have visitors, I often take them west to where the beech forest starts. It’s a completely different landscape. I go to Kidds Bush at the neck between Lake Hāwea and Lake Wānaka or a bit further on to the Blue Pools track. Glenorchy is a great day trip.

What do you love about destinations like this?

You can easily access the natural environment, and there are so many places to discover, even if you don’t feel like walking or biking. Right now, I’m at Lake Kaniere on the West Coast. It’s so beautiful, and I’d never been here before.