The Mackenzie region, situated in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. With its striking lakes, rolling brown plains, and towering mountains, the Mackenzie region is a paradise for nature lovers.

From the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo to the tallest mountain in the country - Aoraki/Mount Cook, this region offers a breathtaking backdrop for a variety of activities. Whether you're hiking through scenic trails, stargazing in one of the world's most renowned dark sky reserves, or enjoying relaxing by one of the lakes, there’s something for every type of traveller.

For an eco-conscious journey, consider travelling by electric vehicle. The Mackenzie region is well-equipped with Chargenet stations in some of the most picturesque locations, making it convenient to recharge as you explore. Plus, many accommodations offer EV charging facilities, allowing you to relax for the night while your vehicle powers up for the adventures ahead.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a guide featuring the best activities and sights in the Mackenzie region. Enjoy your journey through this stunning part of New Zealand!

Best time to visit:

The Mackenzie Region is a year-round destination, with each season offering a unique experience.

• Summer (December to February): This is the most popular time to visit, with long days, relatively hot temperatures (ranging from 20-35°C), and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. The alpine landscapes are lush, and the lakes glisten under the sun, making it perfect for hiking, photography, and water activities.
• Autumn (March to May): Autumn brings stunning hues to the region, as the foliage of the surrounding trees turns to golden and reddish tones. The weather remains mild, and it’s an excellent time for hiking or simply relaxing in the tranquility of the region.
• Winter (June to August): Snow-covered peaks create a magical, winter-wonderland atmosphere, perfect for those who love to experience the South Island’s alpine charm in the colder months.
• Spring (September to November): As the weather warms up and wild flowers begin to bloom, spring is a lovely time to visit if you want fewer crowds but still good weather for outdoor activities.

Getting there: 

The Mackenzie Region is easily accessible by car from both Christchurch and Queenstown, though the most common route is from Christchurch, about a 3-hour drive (230 km). Whether you're coming from Christchurch or another part of New Zealand’s South Island, getting to the Mackenzie Region is straightforward, and the roads are well-maintained. Roady tip: If you’re coming from Christchurch, the Fairlie Bakehouse is a must-stop for some of the best pies in NZ!

One key consideration for travelers is the availability of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs). Fortunately, New Zealand is making great strides in EV adoption, and the Mackenzie District is no exception. Along the main routes like SH8, you’ll find a number of ChargeNet stations, particularly in towns like Fairlie, Twizel and Tekapo, making it convenient to travel without worrying about running out of charge.

Where to stay:

There are plenty of accommodation options in the Mackenzie Region to suit all budgets, from luxury lodges like the Lakestone Lodge, boutique hotels to motels and campgrounds like Lakes Edge Holiday Park and the epic White Horse Hill Campground. Lake Tekapo & the Aoraki Mt Cook Village have a good selection of accommodations, with many offering spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Best things to do: 

The Mackenzie Region is known for its stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of must-visit spots that showcase the area’s incredible landscapes.

Church of the Good Shepherd (Lake Tekapo)

Perhaps one of the most iconic places in New Zealand, the Church of the Good Shepherd sits right on the shore of Lake Tekapo and is a must-see. Built in the 1930s, this small stone church is both an architectural gem and a place of quiet reflection. The view from the church, with the turquoise waters of the lake and the backdrop of the Southern Alps, is absolutely mesmerising. 

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is famous for its stunning turquoise color, which comes from the fine particles of rock flour suspended in the water. The lake is a popular spot for boating, kayaking, and fishing, but one of its most unique features is its status as part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. This area is one of the best places in the world for stargazing, and if you're visiting in the evening, don’t miss the chance to look up at the spectacular night sky. The region also has the Tekapo Springs where you can relax in hot pools with scenic views of the lake and mountains.

Be sure to download the Roady App for all the detailed information you’d need for all these amazing spots we’re mentioning.

Mount John

Standing at 1,031 meters (3,383 feet) above sea level, Mount John is a popular destination and provides an exceptional vantage point, with sweeping views of Lake Tekapo's turquoise waters, the Southern Alps, and the nearby rolling hills. On clear days, the views extend as far as Mount Cook, New Zealand’s, making it a prime location for photography.

One of the key attractions of Mount John is the Mount John Observatory, which sits at the summit. This observatory is renowned for its research in astronomy, taking advantage of the area's clear, dark skies—perfect for stargazing. 

Hiking and walking tracks also wind up the mountain, offering both short walks and longer, more challenging treks, providing opportunities to explore the unique alpine flora and fauna along the way.

Lake Alexandrina, Lake Pukaki & Lake Ruataniwha

If you’re driving around the Mackenzie Region, you can’t miss the incredible Lake Pukaki. Known for its incredible blue color, the lake offers amazing photo opportunities, especially with Mount Cook towering in the distance. Along with Lake Pukaki, nearby Lake Ruataniwha is also worth a visit, offering a more serene atmosphere perfect for kayaking and cycling along the lake's shores. Lake Alexandrina is another great spot for camping and scenic views.

Hooker Valley Track

For those who enjoy an easy walk with insane views, the Hooker Valley Track is one of the most popular walks in the Mackenzie Region. This track takes you through beautiful alpine scenery, with panoramic views of glaciers, the Hooker River, and the towering Aoraki/Mount Cook. The track crosses several swing bridges and offers several lookout points where you can catch your breath and take in the surrounding landscape. It’s a 3-4 hour return walk, suitable for most fitness levels, and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

Mueller Hut

The Mueller Hut Hike is one of New Zealand's most iconic alpine hikes, offering stunning views and a rewarding challenge for experienced hikers. The track gains nearly 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) of elevation as it climbs through alpine meadows, past scree slopes, and across rocky terrain. The final section to the hut is the steepest and most challenging. Hikers must navigate a rocky, scree-covered path, which can be slippery, especially in wet or icy conditions. However, the effort is rewarded with spectacular panoramic views once you reach the Mueller Hut, perched at 1,800 meters (5,905 feet). From the front deck, you can enjoy sweeping vistas of Mount Cook, the Hooker Glacier, and the surrounding peaks, including the Tasman Glacier.

Tasman Glacier Walk

The Tasman Lake Walk is a short but incredibly rewarding walk, offering visitors stunning views of one of New Zealand's most spectacular alpine settings. This easy, relatively flat track is ideal for those looking for a more accessible way to experience the dramatic landscape surrounding Tasman Glacier. The main highlight of the walk is the chance to view Tasman Lake, which has formed as a result of the retreating Tasman Glacier. The lake is a striking sight, with its turquoise waters set against the backdrop of rugged mountains and the towering peaks of the Southern Alps. Depending on the time of year, the lake may be dotted with large icebergs that have calved off the glacier—adding to the visual drama of the landscape.

For those looking for a slightly more adventurous experience, there’s the option to take a boat tour on Tasman Lake, which offers a closer look at the icebergs and a unique perspective of the glacier face. However, the walk itself is an excellent way to take in the beauty of the area at a leisurely pace.

The Mackenzie Region is a truly magical part of New Zealand, offering a wealth of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it a perfect escape. Whether you're hiking the Hooker Valley Track, taking in the views at Lake Tekapo, or gazing at the stars in the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, this region has something for everyone. Plus, with modern infrastructure in place for electric vehicles, it's easier than ever to explore this stunning area sustainably. So pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in one of New Zealand’s most picturesque regions!