Easter in Central Otago is a pretty special time. 

The autumn colours are putting on a show, the days are cooler but still crisp, and it’s the perfect excuse for locals and visitors alike to slow down, spend time with friends and family, and maybe even head out exploring. But if you’ve ever been caught out hunting for a coffee on Good Friday, or turned up to your favourite store only to find the doors closed, you’ll know that Easter trading hours can be a little tricky.

So, what’s usually open and what’s not?

Under New Zealand’s Easter trading laws:

• Supermarkets, bottle stores, and large retail chains are required to close on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
• Cafés, restaurants, and bars may open if they serve food, but alcohol can only be sold to those who are also dining on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
• Small convenience stores, petrol stations, and garden centres often stay open, but hours may vary.
• Tourism businesses, accommodation providers, and hospitality venues tend to be open, particularly if they’re geared toward travellers.

So, if you’re heading out this Easter, just keep in mind that things might run a little differently especially on the public holidays.

These Great Local Spots Are Open This Easter

We’ve spoken to a few local businesses who are keeping their doors open and their ovens warm over Easter. Here’s where you can stop in, fuel up, or enjoy some good old Central Otago hospitality:

Danseys Pass Hotel

Tucked away in the high country and surrounded by rugged mountain landscapes, Danseys Pass Hotel offers more than just a meal or a place to stay; it’s a full experience, steeped in over 160 years of history. This Easter, they’re opening their doors throughout the long weekend, welcoming locals, travellers, and anyone in need of a true Central Otago escape.

Open Easter hours:

• Friday 18th – from 3pm
• Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th – from 11am
• Monday 21st – from 3pm

Important to note: Due to Easter trading laws, alcohol can only be served on Good Friday and Easter Sunday to those who are also dining—so if you're stopping in for a drink, make sure you grab something off the menu too (and you’ll be glad you did).

Jackson Orchards – Guided Orchard Tour

Open every day this Easter from 8am to 7pm, Jackson Orchards is a must-visit for fresh fruit lovers and families exploring Central Otago. Just off Highway 6, their roadside store is packed with seasonal fruit, vegetables, dried goods, and preserves—plus their real fruit ice creams and smoothies are worth the stop alone. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, the new Cookie Space serves hot cookies, cookie sandwiches, and brownie ice cream cups—the perfect holiday treat.

For those wanting a deeper look, their 45-minute orchard tours run daily and offer a fun, behind-the-scenes glimpse into one of New Zealand’s top stonefruit growers. You’ll hop aboard their electric yellow bus and, in summer, even taste fruit straight from the trees. Can’t make it in? They also deliver fresh produce and mixed boxes nationwide via their online store. Whether you’re driving through or planning a visit, Jackson’s is a Central Otago classic.

Pitches Store

If you're looking for a relaxing place to unwind this Easter, Pitches Store in Ophir is open every day from 10am to 8pm, serving up seasonally inspired dishes, great coffee, and an award-winning atmosphere.

The restaurant blends old-world charm with modern comfort—think rustic timber furnishings, an open fireplace, and a courtyard made for long lunches in the autumn sun. Whether you're stopping in for a light bite, a quiet coffee, or a leisurely dinner paired with local wine or craft beer, it's a perfect Easter escape inner bookings are recommended—they won't open for evening service without confirmed bookings by 4pm, so be sure to call ahead. 03-4473240

Chatto Creek Tavern

This Easter, Chatto Creek Tavern is going all out with live music, their much-loved Golden Easter Egg Hunt, and their Anzac Day ceremony, there’s plenty happening at this iconic Central Otago pub. 

From 12 - 4pm Friday to Sunday, kids can hunt for golden eggs in the garden, find one and swap it at the bar for an Easter treat. All kids also go in the draw to win Okie the Caterpillar, and real fruit ice creams are just $3, with all proceeds going to the Poppy Week Appeal.

Open every day over the break, this historic tavern is a favourite stop for both locals and those riding the Otago Central Rail Trail. Whether you’re pulling in by car or bike, you’ll be greeted with genuine Southern hospitality from owners Fiona and Grant and their friendly team. The menu features hearty pub meals made with fresh, local ingredients, and the garden bar and sunny lawn offer the perfect spot to sit back and relax. Dinner bookings are essential, so give them a call if you're planning to stay for the evening.

And don’t forget—the Alexandra-Clyde RSA Anzac Day Service will be held at the tavern at 1pm on Friday, 25 April.

The Stoaker Room

If you’re after a great meal and a relaxed atmosphere this Easter, The Stoaker Room is open from 12pm to 9pm daily at both their Cromwell and Wānaka locations. Known for their unique barrel-cooked fare and bold Central Otago flavours, it's a perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or a leisurely drink with friends. While morning coffee service in Wānaka is paused on Good Friday and Easter Monday, the kitchens are firing from midday with their signature Stoaker Banquet and seasonal favourites. A great choice for visitors and locals looking to enjoy a flavour-packed Easter feast.

Have a great Easter and enjoy the long weekend. Hope you get the chance to relax, spend time with good people, and maybe treat yourself to something sweet!