Wonder at the southern night sky, get up close with a glacier, explore off the beaten track on the many walking and cycle trails, or head for the slopes at the ski fields.”
Welcome to the Legendary Mackenzie! Step into the great wide open and discover the highest mountains, awe-inspiring glaciers, vivid turquoise lakes, golden grasslands and dazzling starry skies.
Home to Aoraki/Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo, this region is one of the most photographed and visited in all of New Zealand. Take a scenic flight into the mountains and land on glaciers; enjoy the night sky within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve; explore the amazingly beautiful landscape by cycling, walking, kayaking, swimming, skiing and more. Stay in boutique accommodation, eat local cuisine, and smile at the genuine Kiwi hospitality you’ll find all around you. This is a landscape that stays in your memory forever - truly one of New Zealand’s most cherished treasures. Come discover the Mackenzie!
Boat or kayak among massive icebergs on a glacier lake.
Gaze at the stars of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
Taste the freshest sashimi at a local salmon farm.
Bike a section of the scenic Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail.
Try world class fly fishing or backcountry hunting with an expert guide.
SEPT TO NOV
7 - 18°c
The landscape bursts into bloom with native Mount Cook lilies in the mountains and colourful fields along the lakes and rivers. View the brilliant colours on a walk, a horse trek or from the air with a thrilling scenic flight.
DEC TO FEB
10 - 30°c
The Mackenzie Region has some of the hottest South Island temperatures. Mountain nights still have a crisp high country chill. Soak up the sun at the brilliant turquoise lakes or get up close with the ice on a guided glacier hike or glacier lake boat tour.
MAR TO MAY
8 - 20°c
Autumn brings settled weather and warm sunshine. It’s a great time to experience the famous walks and other activities outside the busy summer season. The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is the perfect autumn activity to take in the beauty of the landscape.
JUN TO AUG
-5 - 12°c
Snow transforms the Mackenzie into a picture perfect winter wonderland, and clear night skies make this the best season for stargazing. Ski or snowboard the region’s ski fields and warm up after a day on the slopes with a luxurious soak in the hot pools.
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