Built in 1868 at the confluence of the Clutha and Kawarau rivers, The Junction is one of Cromwell's oldest and most cherished heritage properties. The cottage takes its name from this very spot — the junction of two of Central Otago's great rivers, a meeting point so significant that early settlers named the entire township after it. Before the town became Cromwell, it was simply known as The Junction, and it now stands at that crossroads — just as it always has.
Positioned to capture the full sweep of this remarkable geography, The Junction enjoys a 220° panorama across Lake Dunstan to the Pisa Range — one of the most unique and breathtaking views in New Zealand. To the left, the Kawarau arrives from the gorge. To the right, the mighty Clutha stretches toward the south. Directly ahead, Lake Dunstan fills the valley — its still waters mirroring the sky and the Pisa Range beyond. There is nowhere else in New Zealand quite like it.
This beautifully restored schist stone cottage has sheltered gold rush merchants, a decorated WWI officer, a war widow who raised seven children to tertiary level, and one of the 20th century's greatest war surgeons. For over half a century it remained in one family's care, and it now opens its doors to welcome guests for the very first time.
The Junction sleeps up to eight guests across four bedrooms — two queen rooms and one double room, all with stunning water views across Lake Dunstan, plus a sunroom with bunk beds, perfect for younger guests. There is one full bathroom plus a separate guest toilet, and a clawfoot bath for long, indulgent soaks after days on the trail.
Heat pumps throughout, fully equipped modern kitchen, high-speed WiFi, full laundry facilities, iron and ironing board, and smart TV.
Relax on the private heritage verandah with its original decorative lacework, gather fruit from the heritage orchard, or unwind on the outdoor patio. Lockable bike racks make The Junction the perfect base for cycling the Lake Dunstan Trail — one of New Zealand's Great Rides — which begins right at the cottage gate.
World-class Central Otago pinot noir cellar doors, the Old Cromwell Heritage Precinct, Highlands Motorsport Park, and the ski fields of Cardrona and Treble Cone are all within easy reach.
Pour a glass of Central Otago pinot on the verandah as the evening light plays across the water, watch the seasons change in the heritage orchard, and let 160 years of history settle around you. This is Central Otago at its finest — unhurried, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable.
A beautifully illustrated heritage compendium in the cottage tells the full story of the remarkable people who called this place home. The walls have stories — and we've written them all down for you.