About Thyme for Sleeps and Treats

12/05/2026

Trail town: OPHIR

There’s something special about Ophir...

One of the Otago Central Rail Trail’s most iconic historic settlements, Ophir is where time slows down. Originally a bustling gold mining town in the 1860s, today it’s a peaceful stop filled with heritage buildings, big Central Otago skies, and warm country hospitality.

Take time to wander the historic streets, cross the stunning Daniel O'Connell Bridge, and enjoy a well-earned meal or refreshment at Pitches Store or Blacks Hotel (Ophir).

It’s places like this that make the Otago Central Rail Trail more than just a bike ride — it’s a journey through history, landscape, and local stories.

🚴‍♀️ Autumn and winter riding brings crisp mornings, golden light, and fewer crowds — the perfect time to explore.

More about Ophir: https://www.otagocentralrailtrail.co.nz/plan/news-and-stories/ophir/

12/05/2026

Five years of big views, wobbly legs, and memories made on two wheels. 🚴‍♀️🎉

The Lake Dunstan Trail turned 5 last Friday, and what a ride it's been. From those jaw-dropping suspension bridges to floating coffee stops on the lake, this trail has become one of New Zealand's most loved Great Rides, and we couldn't be prouder to call it ours.

Here's to the thousands of riders who've rolled through, the operators who've made the experience unforgettable, and the stunning Central Otago landscape that's done most of the hard work. 😍

📸: Geoff Marks

Lake Dunstan Cycle & Walking Trail

06/05/2026

When your guests say it better than you ever could 🐾

Moko & Maru approved – tails wagging and rabbit patrol in full swing.🤎

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DX_awoPONb9/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

03/05/2026

Love those wontons!

The sun dips into the horizon on a gorgeous Autumn day, next week we highlight the best of Autumn flavors in our tasting menu and its delicious. Pork Belly Wontons shine brightly again on the Lunch Menu.
For Monday we have 2 portions of Wonton’s to give away. Like & share & we will private message the winner by 6pm Sunday evening .

03/05/2026

Let's help this awesome photograther Brendan Larsen get to his 1000 subscriber goal on YouTube!

Perfectly planned. Not AI.

The full moon rising over Mt Taranaki this evening 🌕

The plane passing through?
That part was pure luck ✈️

✨ Real sky • real place • real moment
📍 Warea, Taranaki, New Zealand
📅 Saturday 2 May 2026 at 6:03pm
© Brendan Larsen Photography
Sharing via my page is encouraged — please don’t download or reuse without permission.

25/04/2026

Looks epic 🙌 We’ve got guests riding today while we’re on dog-sitting duty - perks of being right next door to the trails. Such a great spot to base yourself for a few days.
WHat a great day for a ride 🚴‍♀️

22/04/2026

So grateful to call this place home!

22/04/2026

We had a good frost this morning but I'm guessing some of these great pics were taken in winter! Another great day trip!

22/04/2026

This is a great place to visit on a day trip - a bit nippy in winter but a nice hot drink and bite to eat in Hannah's cafe soon warms you up!

20/04/2026

Fresh off Grand Designs NZ, Earnscleugh Castle is one of the most talked-about landmarks in Alexandra, Central Otago right now.

I was lucky enough to have a helicopter flight over the Castle recently and see our amazing landscape from above.

Locals Ryan and Marco have invested $11 million into transforming the Earnscleugh historic building - and it’s unlike anything else in the region.

You won’t see much from the road.
Access is by guided tour - and it’s well worth doing properly.

Staying with us in Alexandra? We can help arrange a visit so you can experience one of Central Otago’s most unique attractions during your stay.

Stay local. See more. Experience Central Otago properly.