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Wānaka’s neighbouring Mount Cook MacKenzie region includes the Tasman Glacier, Tekapo, Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. Snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes and a network of blue canals form this remarkable region. At the heart of it all is New Zealand’s highest mountain peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook.
Head east through the Cardrona Valley towards Tarras, then north on State Highway 8 over the Lindis Pass. The Lindis Pass is a high alpine road, so check conditions in winter before you travel.
Stops along the way
Lindis Pass. The road climbs through tussock-covered hills to a summit lookout at almost 1,000 metres. It’s a good spot to stretch your legs and take in the open high country.
Omarama. Stop to see the Clay Cliffs, a set of sharp ridges and gullies carved by wind and water, or soak in the hot tubs with views of the mountains.
Twizel. A relaxed base for the region, with cafés, walks around Lake Ruataniwha, and easy access to Lake Pukaki and the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail.
Lake Pukaki. Glacial flour gives the lake its intense blue colour. On a clear day, Aoraki/Mount Cook rises at the far end. Many visitors stop to buy fresh salmon from the local salmon farms nearby.
Walk the Hooker Valley Track. This 10km return walk from White Horse Hill takes around three hours and crosses swing bridges to reach Hooker Lake, with Aoraki/Mount Cook straight ahead. Other walks include Kea Point or you can take on the climb to Mueller Hut.
See theTasman Glacier. New Zealand’s largest glacier sits just up the valley from the village. Walk to the Tasman Glacier viewpoint, take a boat out on the terminal lake among the icebergs, or take a scenic flight and land on the snow.
Look up. The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is the largest in New Zealand. Join a guided stargazing tour or simply step outside on a clear night.
Visit Lake Tekapo. Walk the lakefront to the Church of the Good Shepherd, soak in the hot pools, or head up Mt John for views across the basin. In late spring, lupins bloom around the lake’s edge.
Ride the Alps 2 Ocean. The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail starts in the shadow of Aoraki/Mount Cook and runs all the way to Ōamaru. Ride a section around Twizel and Lake Pukaki, or take it on over several days.
Visit in winter. Crisp, clear days bring skiing at Roundhill and Ōhau, and frosty mornings across the basin.
Make a loop of it
Head to Aoraki/Mount Cook Village via the Lindis Pass and stay a night or two. Then continue to Lake Tekapo, before returning to Wānaka through Twizel and Omarama. You’ll get sunrise at the mountain and starry skies at the lake.
For more ideas, visit mackenzienz.com.
