Brilliant road trip: Mackenzie Region

Just a 2.5-hour drive on the main highway between Christchurch and Queenstown, the Mackenzie Region is easy to get to. Mackenzie has the clearest starry skies, the highest mountains, vivid turquoise lakes, and expansive golden grasslands. Home to Aoraki/Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo, this region is one of the most photographed and visited in all of New Zealand. The most popular things to do are a scenic flight – fly over the mountains and land on glaciers; and stargazing within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.

These are the key locations that are must include in your brilliant road trips:

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.

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!

Twizel 

Mackenzie’s largest town is 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!

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.