What makes Naseby special
Naseby’s appeal is as much about its setting as it is about individual activities. The village sits in a sheltered basin surrounded by tall pine forest and open high-country landscapes. Days are often bright and clear, nights are dark and full of stars, and the streets stay quiet even in the busier seasons.
The wider area around Naseby offers:
- Easy access to forest walking and biking trails
- Connections to the Central Otago Rail Trail and local cycle routes
- Big-sky views and classic Central Otago scenery within a short drive
- A rich gold-mining history reflected in local buildings and stories
- Home to New Zealand’s first International Dark Sky Community, making it one of the best places in the country for stargazing
- Nearby 4WD routes and high-country gravel rides that let you explore Central Otago’s backroads and hill country at your own pace
Why stay longer
Most visitors find that 2-3 nights lets them experience Naseby properly, with time to walk in the forest, try an activity or two, explore nearby towns, and still enjoy unhurried mornings with a book or coffee.
Staying a little longer also increases your chances of a clear night for stargazing, one of the simple but unforgettable experiences that Naseby is known for.
If you are planning a visit, you can use the example itinerary further down as a starting point.
Local food and essentials
Naseby is compact, but well set up for short and longer stays:
- Royal Hotel - classic Kiwi pub meals and a warm welcome
- Black Forest Café - coffee, light meals, homemade baking
- Naseby General Store - groceries, daily essentials, takeaway food, and everything you need for self-catering
Nearby Ranfurly (around 10 minutes by car) offers additional restaurants, cafés, supermarkets, fuel, a pharmacy, and other everyday services.
Activities at a glance
Below is a clear overview of the main activity themes in and around Naseby. Each theme has its own dedicated subpage, helping you plan a longer and more enjoyable stay.
Forest biking, Rail Trail links, 4WD routes, gravel loops and high-country exploration across the Maniototo.
Short days, crisp air, ice sports, forest walks and cosy evenings - ideal for a quiet winter escape.
Easy trails, gentle biking, swimming spots, fun luge activities and relaxed days outdoors.
Peaceful forest walks, stargazing, scenic drives and quiet places to reconnect.
Some of the clearest skies in New Zealand, perfect for night photography and slow evenings under the stars.
Itinerary example for 3 nights
Day 1 - Arrival and first impressions
Arrive, settle into your apartment, and take an easy stroll through the historic town centre or the edge of Naseby Forest. The calm atmosphere makes it simple to slow down and ease into your stay. In the evening, walk to the Royal Hotel restaurant for a relaxed dinner.
Day 2 - Explore Naseby
Your first full day is ideal for discovering what makes Naseby unique:
- Ride a section of the Central Otago Rail Trail from nearby Ranfurly
- Try curling at the indoor stadium in Naseby
- In winter, visit the local ice stadium for skating or the dedicated winter luge track next door
- In summer, try the outdoor luge - a fun downhill track running through the forest
- Spend a slower afternoon on your deck or indoors with a film or series
- If the skies are clear, end the day outside under the stars
Day 3 - Maniototo day trip & outdoor adventures
Use the second full day for wider exploration:
- Head out on a 4WD or gravel-road loop into the surrounding hills
- Combine a forest ride with viewpoints and quiet picnic spots
- Visit Ranfurly for cafés and small-town character
- Extend your outing to Alexandra, Clyde or Ophir if you enjoy historic towns and scenic drives
Day 4 - Relaxed departure
Begin the morning gently with coffee, a book, or a short forest walk. Before leaving, take a short scenic drive through the Maniototo or enjoy one last quiet moment in Naseby before continuing your journey.
Plan your stay
Whether you are planning an active adventure, a quiet retreat, or a mix of both, Naseby offers space, calm, and the convenience of well-equipped accommodation. Check availability for our Naseby apartments to begin planning your time here.