South Canterbury – Mt Cook
This iconic alpine region is the location of Aoraki Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain.
Snow capped mountains, sparkling blue lakes and golden tussock grasslands; the majestic landscape of the Mackenzie area offers some of New Zealand’s most unique and memorable experiences.
The region is home to the Aoraki International Dark Sky Reserve and offers a unique opportunity to stargaze and photography the stunning night skies. Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat provides the opportunity for you to stargaze from their private Pukaki Observatory.
This alpine region offers easy access to stunning glaciers; take a heli flight over majestic mountains and land on a glacier or maybe kayak or cruise on a glacial lake. Walk through alpine woods, past beautiful lakes. Cycle the Alps to Ocean cycle trail. Fish for salmon or trout. Experience the sport of gliding in an area considered to be the best mountain soaring site in the world. Come back to earth and take a Lord of the Rings tour to visit iconic film locations.
In winter enjoy a heli-ski experience to pristine untouched snow runs.
- Stargazing – Wine Tasting and Astrophotography
- Aoraki Dark Sky Reserve
- Heli-tours to Aoraki Mt Cook World Heritage Park
- Explore the Glaciers
- Fly Fishing
- Be pampered at Fantail Spa
- Relax and enjoy the silence
- Farm tours to heritage sites
High Country Stations
Walk through ancient forests
Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat – Lake Pukaki
Imagine spectacular views over the turquoise blue waters of Lake Pukaki and beyond to the majestic vista of Aoraki-Mt Cook. The luxurious Ashley Mackenzie Villa is Exclusively Yours and accommodates up to 4 guests. The Fantail Spa is the perfect place to relax and the Pukaki Observatory offers the chance to view the stunning night sky in this Dark Skies region.
The Vicarage Geraldine
Set right in the heart of the pretty village of Geraldine. The Vicarage has been elegantly restored by the famed Barker family, owners of Barker's Food Store. You'll love the stunning decor, the luxe linens and robes and the opportunity to explore this region. Forests to farm tours to high-country stations.
