Central Otago’s tourism sector remains largely in lockdown due to Covid-19, but operators believe they can bear the brunt of the economic fallout from the pandemic. Tourism Central Otago figures stated at Level 4 it was estimated 55% of the district’s workforce was able to work, as essential services or from home, Level 3 meant a further 14% could get back on the job. Shebikeshebikes operates depots in Clyde, Omakau and Middlemarch for customers wishing to cycle the Otago Central Rail Trail, Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold trails. At Crows Nest Accommodation, in Oturehua, owner Bill May said the virus struck at the peak of tourism season and had possibly cost him about $12,000. He could accommodate 20 people but business from the Central Otago Rail Trail was at a standstill.

Source: Otago Daily Times May 01, 2020 16:30 UTC