Begin your adventure with a picturesque drive where rolling hills give way to snow-dusted peaks. Stop in Fairlie, a charming rural town famous for its hearty country fare. Enjoy a delicious meal at Eat Café, known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients. 

Continue your journey to Lake Tekapo, passing through Burkes Pass, a historic settlement offering a glimpse into the region’s pioneering past. Make a quick stop at Three Creeks, a quirky store filled with vintage memorabilia, rustic Kiwiana & Americana décor, and handcrafted goods.

Upon arrival in Tekapo, immerse yourself in the Lake Tekapo Farm Tours experience, a unique opportunity to explore the stunning high-country landscape. Venture onto high county stations where you’ll meet friendly farm animals, learn about local merino sheep farming, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. This tour offers a fantastic way to connect with the region’s rural heritage while taking in its natural beauty.

Settle in at Grand Suites Tekapo, offering modern comforts and stunning lake views while being a close walk to town. As evening falls, head to Blue Lake Eatery & Bar for a cosy dinner featuring locally inspired dishes and an excellent selection of New Zealand wines.

Wake up to the crisp mountain air and fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Jack Rabbit Café (5-min walk from Grand Suites) before heading to Roundhill Ski Area, one of the most scenic family-friendly ski fields in New Zealand. With wide, gentle runs for beginners and steeper slopes for the more adventurous, it’s a perfect winter playground. Take in the panoramic views of the Southern Alps as you carve through fresh powder.

After an action-packed morning, warm up at Tekapo Springs, where steaming hot pools provide the ultimate relaxation. Let the kids enjoy the ice skating rink or snow tubing while you relax with a treatment in the day spa. Featuring a licenced café with a roaring fireplace this is fun for the whole family!

For dinner, indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine at Kohan Restaurant, famous for its freshly sourced Mount Cook Alpine Salmon and warming miso soup. The stunning lake views make for a memorable dining experience.

Venture deeper into the heart of the Mackenzie Region as you travel towards Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s tallest peak. Upon arrival, embark on a glacier adventure with Mount Cook Glacier Guiding, where you’ll take a scenic flight and land on New Zealand’s largest glacier, the mighty Haupapa/Tasman Glacier. Marvel at the massive ice formations, explore ice caves and learn about the ever-changing glacial landscape.

After lunch at The Old Mountaineers’ Café, a cosy spot with unbeatable mountain views, take a scenic walk along the Hooker Valley Track. For a shorter, family-friendly option, stroll to the first suspension bridge, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular vistas of Aoraki/Mount Cook.

Check in to The Hermitage Hotel, a historic alpine retreat offering stunning views of the Southern Alps. Enjoy an elegant buffet dinner at Alpine Restaurant, where the menu features locally sourced ingredients, from Canterbury lamb to fresh seafood. End the evening with a cocktail by the fireplace at Snowline Lounge, soaking in the warmth while gazing at the snow-covered peaks outside.

Start your final day with a leisurely breakfast at Mint Folk & Co, a local favourite in Twizel known for its specialty coffee, freshly baked pastries, and seasonal brunch menu.

For a final day of winter adventure, head to Ōhau Snow Fields, a hidden gem with pristine slopes and an authentic Kiwi ski lodge atmosphere. Whether skiing, snowboarding, or simply enjoying the spectacular high-country views, it’s the perfect way to embrace winter.

As the sun sets, return to Twizel for a delicious dinner at Logans at High Country Salmon, a floating café & restaurant on a working fish farm.  The focus is on giving our customers the ‘glacier to plate’ experience, where they use a variety of cooking techniques to best highlight the clean flavour profile and firm texture of their salmon, and local seasonal ingredients. Non-salmon and vegetarian options are also available. 

End your journey with a Twizel Stargazing tour in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. With minimal light pollution, Twizel offers a stunning view of the Milky Way, constellations, and even distant galaxies. It’s a magical way to conclude your winter adventure in the Mackenzie Region.