Local Tips
#16 – Ski the Tasman Glacier
You may have heard of the Tasman Glacier, but did you know you can ski and snowboard on it? Your adventure begins with breath-taking views while flying over the Southern Alps, including Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. You’ll then spend this once-in-a-lifetime experience making turns all the […]
#15 – 4WD Adventure
The Mackenzie Region has some of the most unique and impressive natural landscapes around, so why not jump in a 4WD and roam the backcountry in style? Whether you want to explore public land in your own vehicle or join a guided trip and head […]
#14 – Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
Situated in the Aoraki/Mount Cook Village you will find the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre – a celebration of one of the world’s most famous explorers, who began his mountaineering days on the slopes of Aoraki/Mount Cook. A great adventure for all ages, the centre is […]
#13 – Richmond Trail
The track is 13 kilometres one-way (approximately four hours) and part of the Te Araroa trail – you can walk or bike it (grade 4) and it offers unbeatable views! The trail follows an old glacial terrace through tussocks and patches of native vegetation. On […]
#12 – Burkes Pass
Located halfway between Fairlie and Lake Tekapo you’ll find the historic village of Burkes Pass. If you’ve never stopped before, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find a world where American retro-collectables, artwork, furniture, great coffee and conversation can be found, surrounded by classic cars, a […]
#11 – Epic Skydiving
The Mackenzie Region has some of the most epic scenery in the world – why not enjoy it whilst you jump out of a plane?! Jump onboard the skydive plane and soak up the spectacular views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Lakes Ōhau, Pūkaki and Tekapo, […]
#10 – Mackenzie Golf Courses
Love golf? The Mackenzie Region has you covered! We have five amazing golf courses located around the region – the Mt Nessing Golf Club in Albury, the Fairlie Golf Club, the Cairns and Balmoral Golf Clubs at Lake Tekapo and the Ben Ōhau Golf Club […]
#9 – Fairlie’s Bobby Square
The Mackenzie Region is known for its amazing outdoors and dramatic scenery, but did you know it also has some incredible shopping? Located in the heart of Fairlie you will find Bobby Square, a shopping haven offering everything from leading fashion brands, art and jewellery, […]
#8 – Ben Ōhau & Greta Stream
The trailhead is located approximately 22 kilometres from Twizel township, along the Glen Lyon Road on the north side of Lake Ōhau. Starting from the car park, you immediately pass an old derelict musterer’s hut from the 1890s called Back Hut. From there, it’s a […]
#7 – UC Mt John Observatory
The University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory is located at the top of Mount John, with 360-degree alpine views overlooking Lake Tekapo, Lake Alexandrina and Lake McGregor. At the University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory, there are 6 telescopes, including the country’s biggest, which can […]
