5 Ways To Play This Winter
Take time to play! Your playful spirit will be invigorated by the Mackenzie. On the snow, in the hot pools, or even high up in the air on a scenic flight. There are plenty of activities to keep all ages entertained, plus a few relaxing interludes for you to catch your breath.
1. Tekapo Springs
For a fun mix of winter recreation and relaxation, a visit to Tekapo Springs is a must-do for everyone. Have fun and get fit on New Zealand’s most scenic outdoor ice-skating rink! Lessons are available with their friendly instructors. Try the thrill of the 150-metre snow tube then warm up in their fully-licensed café by the open fire with a hot drink, or choose from the delicious range of snack, lunch and dinner options.
When it’s time to relax, soak in the stunning lake and mountain views from one of their three hot pools (37 – 39 degrees Celsius). Pamper yourself at the day spa; each therapy room features beautiful lake and mountain views, with a full range of beauty treatments.
2. Roundhill Ski Area
From beginner to expert Roundhill is the prime alpine location to make the most of the winter months. Learners and little ones can head to a massive beginners area featuring a platter lift and 2 beginners rope tows for a fun and gentle way to find your feet in the snow. T-Bars give access to loads of super wide, perfectly groomed intermediate trails with lots of natural dips and curves making for fun and interesting skiing and riding.
For the more adventurous head up the world’s longest and steepest rope tow and see what Australasia’s biggest vertical drop (783m) is all about. Offering super long natural half pipes, chutes and access to a huge back country area this is skiing and riding at its best. You’ll also find a fully licensed cafe serving hearty Kiwi fare as well as snacks and nibbles.
3. Air Safaris
The Air Safaris Grand Traverse flight is a truly spectacular scenic flight encompassing two World Heritage Parks and over 200 km of New Zealand’s most memorable scenery. With a large and varied fleet especially selected for air tour sightseeing, every passenger has a guaranteed window seat and all aircraft have wings above to ensure optimum viewing below.
Aerial highlights include beautiful turquoise glacial lakes, golden tussock lands, braided rivers, remote high country sheep stations, glacial valleys and landforms. Travel over the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Westland Tai Poutini National Park, Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, and all the way to the rainforests of the West Coast.
4. Tekapo Star Gazing
Experience the wonder of the dazzling night skies with Tekapo Star Gazing. Operating from Tekapo Springs in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, this is the only guided star gazing and hot pools tour in New Zealand. The tour is 2 hours long: the first half is a guided introduction to the amazing night skies with a unique combination of astronomy and storytelling. The second half of the tour takes place in a 38-degree hot pool; relax on a floating hammock and feel like you’re soaking in the stars as you explore the beauty of the universe.
5. Mount Dobson Ski Area
Ride your skis or snowboard on the wide open slopes at Mount Dobson this season. At the end of the run, you can ride the chairlift back to the top, a great way to rest the limbs and catch your breath. From the well-groomed slopes for beginners and intermediates through to the soft and smooth powder that will test the best. Mount Dobson provides a challenge for all levels of skiers and boarders. Mount Dobson also hosts a team of international instructors who will inspire you to greater heights.
There is plenty of parking available and a daily bus. So come on up!
