Mackenzie Spring Itinerary

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, the Mackenzie District is a treasure trove of natural beauty, adventure, and starry skies. From the tranquil shores of Lake Tekapo to the towering peaks of Aoraki/Mount Cook, this four-day itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable journey filled with local flavours, outdoor activities, legendary high-country hospitality, and epic scenery. With its tranquil surroundings and awe-inspiring landscapes, Mackenzie stands as a paradise for those seeking a profound connection with nature.

Driving to the Mackenzie District in New Zealand offers stunning landscapes and a choice between two scenic routes, depending on whether you want to take the inland option via Methven or continue on State Highway 1 via Ashburton.

Option 1: Inland Scenic Route via Methven [3 hours to Fairlie]

Starting from Christchurch, you would head west on State Highway 73 towards Darfield, before turning south onto State Highway 77. This route will take you through the charming town of Methven, known for its proximity to Mt. Hutt ski area.

 After Methven, continue on SH77, passing through the small towns of Mount Somers and Staveley, until you reach Geraldine. From Geraldine, you’ll connect to State Highway 79 and continue on towards Fairlie.

Option 2: State Highway 1 via Ashburton [2.5 to 3 hours to Fairlie]

The second option is to stay on the main highway, State Highway 1, which is a more straightforward route. Departing Christchurch, you’ll drive south on SH1, passing through the bustling town of Ashburton, which offers various amenities and is a good spot to stop for a break.

From Ashburton, continue south until you reach the town of Rangitata, where you can turn west onto State Highway 79.  From here, the drive becomes increasingly scenic as you approach the Mackenzie Region. The vast landscapes, with distant views of the Southern Alps, become more prominent as you continue towards Fairlie, the gateway to the Mackenzie.

Morning: Fairlie Bakehouse and Shopping at Bobby Square

Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Christchurch to Fairlie, where your first stop is the famous Fairlie Bakehouse. Renowned for its mouthwatering pies and pastries, it’s the perfect place to fuel up before exploring. While in Fairlie, take a stroll through Bobby Square, where you’ll find charming shops filled with local crafts and unique souvenirs.

Midday: Explore Three Creeks

Continue your journey to Three Creeks, a quirky shop in the historic township of Burkes Pass that offers a delightful mix of vintage Americana collectibles, art, retro coffee caravan and a touch of rural New Zealand charm. It’s a great place to stretch your legs and soak in the creativity of the region.

Afternoon: 4WD Adventure in Lake Tekapo

Arriving at Lake Tekapo, get ready for some off-road excitement with Tekapo Adventures or 4WD Tekapo. A 4WD tour will take you deep into the rugged mountain valleys surrounding the lake, offering stunning views and a taste of adventure in the high country.

Evening: Stargazing Tours

As night falls, prepare for an unforgettable stargazing experience. Lake Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best places in the world to view the night sky. Let the experts guide you through the constellations and the wonders of the universe. Choose from various stargazing tours ranging from an astronomical observatory, hot pools, farms, and more.

Stay

Lake Tekapo has a great range of accommodation to suit all styles. Some faves include Isolation Bay, Bunker House, Peppers Bluewater Resort, The Cairns Alpine Resort, and Ranginui B&B.

Early Morning: Fish Tekapo

Rise early to the serene beauty of Lake Tekapo and enjoy a peaceful morning fishing with Fish Tekapo. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, the clear waters and stunning backdrop make for a perfect start to the day.

Midday: Whisky Hut Experience

After your fishing expedition, take to the skies with Mackenzie Helicopters or Air Safaris and visit the Whisky Hut. Perched at 2,000 metres above sea level on top of a mountain this humble hut sits on the more than 100-year-old Glenmore Station, a 19,000-hectare merino, deer and cattle station bordering Lake Tekapo and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. This unique experience combines stunning aerial views with a carefully curated selection of fine whiskies – perfect for a midday treat.

Afternoon: Relax at Tekapo Springs

Unwind after a day of adventure with a soothing dip at Tekapo Springs. The hot pools here offer breathtaking views of the lake and mountains, making it the ideal spot to relax and recharge.

Evening: Dinner at TLV

Enjoy a delicious dinner at T.L.V (Tekapo Lakeview Restaurant). The menu features a blend of local and international flavours, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients. After a day of exploration, this is the perfect way to end your evening.

Morning: Drive to Aoraki/Mount Cook

Set off early for a scenic drive to Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Along the way, stop at lookout points to capture the breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and the vibrant turquoise-coloured waters of Lake Pūkaki. Include approx drive time.

Midday: Glacier Explorers

Once at Aoraki/Mount Cook, embark on a Glacier Explorers tour, New Zealand’s only glacial boat tour. This unique experience takes you out onto the glacial lake, where you’ll witness towering icebergs and the majestic Haupapa/Tasman Glacier up close. This is a relaxing boat ride filled with discovery.

Afternoon: Hooker Valley Nature Walk and DOC Visitor Centre

After your glacier adventure, explore the Hooker Valley Track, a stunning walk that offers panoramic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and its surrounding glaciers. Don’t miss a visit to the DOC Visitor Centre, where you can learn more about the area’s natural history, mountaineering stories and conservation efforts.

Evening: Stay at the Hermitage Hotel

After a day filled with exploration, retreat to the Hermitage Hotel, where you can relax and enjoy the serene mountain atmosphere. The hotel offers world-class dining and comfortable accommodations, making it the perfect base for your Aoraki/Mount Cook adventure.

Morning: Glentanner Heli-Hike

Fly up and hike down! This tour begins with an exhilarating helicopter flight to a high point on Glentanner Station. Take in dramatic views of Lake Pūkaki, the Tasman River Valley and Aoraki/Mount Cook. After leaving the helicopter the tour continues on foot with an easy walk down a picturesque farm track. Your guide will share stories of the station’s history, geological features, flora, fauna and present-day operations.

Afternoon: Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail or drive to Ōhau Lodge

On your final day, choose between a cycling adventure on the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail with Cycle Journeys or Lakeland Explorer, or take a scenic drive to Ōhau Lodge. The route offers some of the most spectacular views in the region.

Evening: Dinner and Stargazing at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat

For your last evening in the Mackenzie, treat yourself to a luxurious dinner at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat. If you missed the stargazing at Lake Tekapo, the retreat offers an incredible ‘Billion Star Dining’ experience – dining under one of the clearest night skies in the world.

Stay

There are many unique places to stay in Twizel – luxury lodges, glass-covered stargazing pods, stylish cabins, hotels, bed & breakfasts, farmstays and more. Some faves include SkyScape, Lakestone Lodge, Matuka Lodge and Skylark Cabin.

Morning: High Country Salmon

As you make your way to Queenstown, stop at High Country Salmon for a fresh, locally sourced breakfast or to pick up some delicious salmon for the road. It’s the perfect way to end your Mackenzie Region adventure on a high note.