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We can’t wait to welcome you to the Legendary Mackenzie! Step into the great wide open and discover the highest mountains, longest glaciers, vivid turquoise lakes, golden grasslands and dazzling starry skies.

Check out our 52 Reasons short videos on 52 things to see and do in the Mackenzie!

52 REASONS TO VISIT

Why Mackenzie?

Winter Different

The ultimate winter playground

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Darkest Skies

New Zealand’s largest dark sky reserve

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Highest Mountain

NZ’s highest mountain – the mighty Aoraki/Mount Cook

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Largest Glacier

NZ’s largest glacier – the Haupapa/Tasman Glacier

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Turquoise Lakes

Glacial-fed lakes with vivid turquoise colour

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Golden Grasslands

NZ’s largest inter-montane basin

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The Mackenzie Region

Just a 2.5 hour drive on the main highway between Christchurch and Queenstown, the Mackenzie Region is easy to get to. Paradise awaits you!

Aoraki/Mount Cook Village

New Zealand’s highest mountain Aoraki/Mount Cook pierces the clouds above this small village surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, rivers and epic scenery.

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Lake Tekapo

Charming alpine resort town on the shores of the lake. See the famous Church of the Good Shepherd, soak in hot pools, join a stargazing tour, and more!

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Twizel

Mackenzie’s largest town, home to a range of activities, shops, cafés, restaurants and bars. Close to five lakes, and ringed by mountains in every direction. Cycle some of the world-famous Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, go skydiving, catch a trophy fish, and more!

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Fairlie

Fairlie is a lovely rural town with a collection of boutique shops with a wide selection of art, clothing, crafts, decor, and more. Try a pie at the famous Fairlie Bakehouse and enjoy the splendour of the autumn colours.

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Seasons In The Mackenzie Region

The Mackenzie is a delight for the senses in all four seasons. From swimming in alpine lakes to skiing on New Zealand’s largest glacier – as they say, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing!

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Flowers and warmer days

Spring

Witness the blooming of flowers across the region. Avoid the crowds and enjoy some of the region’s popular walks before the popular summer season.

Hot days perfect for swimming

Summer

The days are long and sun-drenched – perfect for exploring the many lakes & rivers, walking amongst the mountains, or just sitting outside cafes and enjoying craft beer and wood-fired pizzas!

Crisp & cool autumn colours

Autumn

Autumn colours bring colour across the region. Plan a picnic, check out the boutique shops, or just go for a scenic drive along the canal roads. Tuck into hearty meals, get on the jacket for a stroll and breathe deep the crisp autumn air.

A snowy playground

Winter

The Mackenzie transforms into a winter playground over the cooler months. Whether you’re after an action-packed ski and snowboard holiday, or just relaxing by logfires and sipping mulled wine, the Mackenzie has it all!

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We can’t wait to welcome you to the Legendary Mackenzie! Step into the great wide open and discover NZ’s highest mountains, longest glaciers, vivid turquoise lakes, golden grasslands and clearest starry skies. Take a scenic flight into the mountains and land on glaciers; enjoy the night sky within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve; explore the amazingly beautiful landscape by cycling, walking, kayaking, swimming, skiing and more.