Alexandra, Central Otago is a pleasant 60 minute drive through the Kawarau and Cromwell Gorges away from Queenstown International airport (also only 2hrs from Dunedin Airport).

Once out of the busy tourist metropolis of Queenstown you escape to the vastness of the heart of Central Otago, a place that has a very unique warm and dry landscape and climate which make it an ideal location for mountain biking. The township and surrounding area has thrived in recent years with the boom of the famous Cycle Trails such as the Otago Central Rail Trail, The Roxbrugh Gorge Trail and the latest addition The Dunstan Trail, on the back of this have come many wonderful cafes, restaurants, bars and breweries now on offer.

But it’s not just about trail riding – Alexandra is home to some of the best single track in NZ. Explore the area on your mountain bike as you prepare for and race The Prospector and see what hidden gems there are here, with trails as good as anywhere in the world only minutes from the centre of town. 

Don’t forget to check out the many local businesses who help bring The Prospector to life.

Wondering where to stay during Prospector? We recommend accommodation in Alexandra or Clyde as your most convenient options but further afield in Cromwell, Omakau and Roxburgh you’ll find great options. Visit the Central Otago tourism site for more options and ideas. Another great resource is The Central App which has general information as well as up-to-the-minute news on what is happening in the region.