Local Tips
#52 – Stargazing
The Mackenzie Region is famous for its pristine night skies, a diverse range of stargazing experiences and for being leaders in dark sky preservation. The region boasts the world’s largest gold status dark sky reserve, meaning it has some of the purest night skies in […]
#51 – Sealy Tarns Track
Dubbed the stairway to heaven, the Sealy Tarns Track in the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a must for the fit adventurer. 2,200 steps take you straight up the freshwater lakes of Sealy Tarns providing spectacular views of the Hooker Valley and the National Park. The […]
#50 – Craft Beer
Craft beer is more popular than ever, and for good reason. Smaller brewers can experiment with different styles, unique hop combinations, and get creative with additional ingredients. It’s said there is a craft beer for everyone, if you haven’t found it yet keep looking! Burkes […]
#49 – Small Country Towns
The Mackenzie is home to the well-known townships of Lake Tekapo, Twizel and Fairlie… but have you explored our other charming small country towns? Next time you’re in the Mackenzie, stop in at Albury, Kimbell and Burkes Pass. Grab a pint at the local pub, […]
#48 – Aoraki Short Walks
The Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is home to some famous walks such as Hooker Valley and Mueller Hut. However, there are also plenty of shorter walks to enjoy. The shorter walks are suited to those with young children, or those wanting to experience outstanding scenery […]
#47 – Water Activities
If you enjoy water activities you’ll love the Mackenzie! The region is home to some of New Zealand’s most famous and photogenic lakes, as well as rivers and canals. Whether you like boating, fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, or swimming you’ll find something to suit. […]
#46 – World’s Highest Whisky Hut
Just 15 minutes from Lake Tekapo lies Glenmore Station, home of New Zealand’s (and possibly the world’s) highest whisky bar. The 19,000-hectare merino, deer and cattle station borders Lake Tekapo and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park offering unbeatable views all year round. The braided river networks […]
#45 – Guided Alpine Experience
The Mackenzie Region is synonymous with outdoor adventure. The Southern Alps in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park provide the perfect playground for any adventure-lover. And despite perception, you don’t need to be an experienced mountaineer to get into the Alps and visit this iconic part of […]
#44 – Wellness & Pamper Experiences
The Mackenzie’s relaxed atmosphere, expansive open spaces, breathtaking lakes and iconic surrounds make it the ideal getaway to relax and unwind. Soak in the hot pools or private hot tubs, enjoy a relaxing massage, a yoga session amongst lavender fields, a day spa, forest bathing, […]
#43 – Hydro Heritage Trail
You can’t help but be wowed by the criss-crossing network of canals and impressive power stations in the Mackenzie Region. The hydro-electricity network supplies a whopping 20% of our country’s electricity. The project started in 1968 and continued day and night for 16 years, employing […]
