Arrowtown transforms into a vibrant alpine après ski village in winter.

Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association manager Nicky Busst says “exploring our backyard and unearthing some of the delightful experiences Arrowtown and the surrounding area has on offer is a must do during winter for people having a day off the mountain or visiting the region for the first time.”

“Our gorgeous historic precinct with its beautiful old buildings housing shops, galleries, restaurants and cafés has a dynamic vibe in the winter months. It’s easy to get around with the historic building facades all featuring wide covered verandas so in inclement weather the streets are sheltered and the laneways offer interesting nooks and crannies to explore.”

Just a 20-minute drive from Queenstown’s international airport Arrowtown is a central hub to local ski areas.

“We are the closest boutique town to the three main resorts with Coronet Peak 15 minutes down the road, the Remarkables 40 minutes away while it is just under an hour’s drive to Cardrona Alpine Resort,” says Nicky.

“The great thing about Arrowtown is we’re close to all the action with everything you need on your doorstep, but out of it too, so you can truly relax and enjoy your holiday. It’s a remarkable destination.”

There are many award-winning food and wine options to discover in Arrowtown.

“All our food producers, baristas, chefs, bartenders, winemakers, craft brewers and bakers are very passionate about what they produce and take pride in creating exceptional food experiences.”

The Lakes District Museum is a major drawcard.

“The museum is the historic heartbeat of this old goldmining town. Whether you’re a history buff or not there are fascinating exhibitions to experience alongside a contemporary art exhibition space and shop featuring books, ceramics and jewellery by local and New Zealand authors and artists,” she says.

“Arrowtown is fortunate to have fashion boutiques, art galleries, artisan stores and homewares that make shopping fun. Our boutique cinema Dorothy Browns shows a broad selection of arthouse movies alongside the blockbusters making it a great spot on a winter’s day or evening.”

Nicky says sampling locally produced Central Otago pinot noir is hard to beat as a winter drink.

“Amisfield, Kinross, Chard Farm and Gibbston Valley cellar doors are close to Arrowtown offering excellent cellar door experiences – think a glass of Pinot Noir beside a roaring fire accompanied by delectable local cheeses,” says Nicky.