Activities & Attractions Search Results

Meeting in Queenstown, we drive to the base of the mighty Southern Alps. Our journey begins with a stunning heli-flight across the Tasman River before cycling through the vast tussock-lands of the Mackenzie Country, along the braided rivers and vineyards of the Waitaki Valley, all the way to the white-stone township of Oamaru. A highlight of this trip is the hand-picked accommodation where we stay at a mix of lodges, premium backcountry farm stays, motels and luxurious glamping tents. Our small group tours include meals, accommodation, private vehicle support and experienced guides and more. We also offer a shorter 6-day Alps to Ocean Cycle itinerary that begins from the alternate trail...

Driven in our modern Mercedes Sprinter (or similar vehicle), our passionate tour guides take you on this trip through the Canterbury Plains, before stopping at Fairlie Bakehouse where you can try one of their famous pies. From here we will continue inland to Lake Tekapo, including a visit to the Church of the Good Shepherd; one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots. Continuing past Lake Pukaki, we will arrive in Aoraki; New Zealand's highest peak. Upon arrival, you'll have the option to embark on one of two spectacular walks: the Hooker Valley or Tasman Glacier*. Flights can also be organized. After Aoraki, we will return to Christchurch. (However full completion of these is subject to...

Wanting to go beyond the crowds that aren't found in any New Zealand guidebook? Packed full of highlights, this stunning trek includes mountain peaks, remote lake and valley systems and the splendour of Aoraki Mount Cook and Mount Aspiring from high vantage points. The trip begins with a drive to the highland region of Lake Tekapo with the first night on the trail spent at a private backcountry hut with superb alpine and lakeside vistas. Ending in sensational style, a breathtaking gondola ride from Ben Lomond from where we walk in the region overlooking stunning Lake Wanaka and towards the Mount Aspiring range. For spectacular Southern Alps scenery. This tour includes 5 dinners, 7 lunches,...

Take off from Christchurch & fly over the Canterbury Plains towards the spectacular Rangitata Gorge, side by side with the Southern Alps. Sidle up to Forest Creek through to the expansive Mackenzie Basin & down to the aquamarine glow of Lake Tekapo to touch down & soak in the spectacular vista. Feast your eyes on the unforgettable azure of Lake Pukaki & head up to the famous Aoraki, Mount Cook as the Tasman Glacier comes into full view. Fly towards the Murchison Glacier to the head of the Rangitata River Valley. Soar along Mount Arrowsmith & touch down at the top of the interweaving braids of Rakaia River. Settle in for a picnic served with unobstructed views, overlooking two of...

Thought-provoking, educational and entertaining, the Dark Sky Experience is an experience which will forever change the way you see the night sky. The 45 minute tour, through four distinct zones is hosted by our passionate guides in our world-class indoor astronomy centre. Embark on an interactive journey delivering thought-provoking insight into the world of tatai aroraki (Māori astronomy) and its pivotal role to the Māori understanding of the universe. Using incredible immersive visual displays, we delve into the depths of the Milky Way. The Dark Sky Experience is a world first and is a must on all itineraries whether you’re staying in Lake Takapō (Tekapo) or just stopping by.

You’ll truly feel amongst the stars. One minute you're learning to explore the Southern Cross. The next, you're standing right inside Saturn's rings. Our indoor stargazing is perfect for all ages. You don't have to wait for nightfall or brave the cold. It's easy, fun, and one of New Zealand’s best ways to dive into star gazing. Ideal for families and young astronomers, it offers a hassle-free way to explore the night sky. And if you’re only in Lake Takapō (Tekapo) for a short time, this is the perfect way to make sure you experience the night sky. With no worries about clouds, every visit guarantees a clear view of the stars.

Explore New Zealand's most spectacular alpine scenery, from snowy mountain ranges and turquoise lakes, to epic glaciers and amazing ice fields flowing through West Coast rainforests to the Tasman Sea! Why fly with us? The Grand Traverse is New Zealand’s premier scenic flight, so you can go further and see more – Mt Cook, Southern Alps mountain range, unique braided rivers, glaciers, Lake Tekapo and glacial lakes. Safe, modern aircraft with experienced local pilots. Every seat is a window seat for incredible views. Informative and entertaining commentary with multi-language brochure supplied. Flights from Lake Tekapo, Glentanner Park/Mt Cook or Franz Josef. Family-owned business with...

Perched high on a mountain saddle amidst breathtaking mountain scenery, The Bad Decision is New Zealand's most exclusive whisky hut – a tiny alpine hut offering a truly unique escape. Your adventure begins with a scenic helicopter flight from Mackenzie Helicopters' Lake Tekapo base, soaring deep into the snow-capped wilderness of the Southern Alps. Witness the majesty of New Zealand's longest glaciers and tallest peaks, including the iconic Aoraki/Mount Cook, before landing beside this secluded hut. Inside the hut, savour a selection of fine whiskies while taking in the 360-degree vistas and the pure mountain air. Or step outside and experience the thrill of driving biodegradable golf...

Experience the grandeur and beauty of the Mackenzie Region on our 25-minute scenic flight, complete with an alpine landing. Nestled in the central South Island, the Mackenzie Basin is simply unmatched. Crystal-clear air, vibrant colours, and dramatic landscapes create a truly unique and special place. On your flight, witness the beauty of Lake Tekapo from above - a shimmering turquoise gem set against the backdrop of the craggy, snow-capped Southern Alps. Soar over iconic high-country stations, venturing into the rugged wilderness. Your journey culminates with a landing at a private mountain spot, revealing panoramic views of alpine lakes and valleys carved by ancient glaciers. During the...

Christchurch offers the perfect base for you to discover New Zealand’s tallest mountain Aoraki/Mount Cook in this full day tour. Highlights include the Canterbury Plains which offer rich pastoral farmland. We break in Geraldine for a morning tea stop and then continue through Burkes Pass to Lake Tekapo & the Church of the Good Shepherd. Later we will see Lake Pukaki, a stunning glacial-fed lake and Aoraki/Mt Cook. Then enjoy a full buffet lunch (available as a pre-booked option) at the Hermitage Hotel. An optional scenic flight over this spectacular alpine region is also available at your own expense; this flight can be arranged with your driver/guide. Visit www.greatsights.co.nz...

Experience the thrill of a helicopter flight and see the very best of the Mackenzie with stunning views of Lake Tekapo, snowy mountain ranges, Aoraki Mt Cook, beautiful braided rivers, and turquoise glacial lakes. Why fly with us? Our helicopter flights will show you some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery. Snow or alpine landings with panoramic views, and the beautiful silence and tranquility of being high in the mountains. Safe, modern helicopters with experienced local pilots. Flights range from 15 to 60 minutes. Wedding and engagement packages available. Helicopter and fixed wing aircraft combo deal, including our renowned Grand Traverse flight. Family-owned business with...

Revitalise your body and recharge your mind in the beautiful, calm space of our Glacial Day Spa. Our expert staff are skilled in a wide range of treatments designed to enhance your health and wellbeing. Try an indulgent facial to reveal glowing, healthy skin or experience the healing benefits of a massage. Manicures, pedicures, waxing & tinting are also available. We’re proud to stock Pure Fiji products.

Experience the total relaxation of soaking in hot water in an alpine environment 720 metres above sea level. Our three hot pools are filled from an underground source near Tekapo; while the water is not geothermal it is exceptionally pure. Temperatures range from 36.5 to 38.5 degrees Celsius. Our pools are named and shaped in honour of the Mackenzie Region’s iconic lakes: Ohau, Pukaki and Tekapo. Each pool has benched seating, so you can sit back and relax in comfort. Ohau has water curtains for a light, soothing effect while Pukaki has massage jets to relieve those aches and pains. Our hottest pool, Tekapo, is a calming, adults-only space with inspiring views of Lake Tekapo and the Two...

Ice Skating is great fun for everyone. Tekapo Springs has one of the most scenic ice rinks in New Zealand with lake, forest and mountain views. The rink also hosts exciting ice hockey games, figure skating, and the traditional winter sport of curling. Get active and have fun then warm up in our onsite Altitude 720 Cafe & Bar.

Plenty of competitive fun for everyone. Challenge your friends and see who is closest to par.

Looking for a rush? Tekapo Springs Snow Tube is an exciting activity for all. What is snow tubing? Simple, it involves you, a tube, and a 150 metre downhill snow slope. Put these together and you get an adrenaline pumping ride. Great fun for all ages and a must do for any trip to Tekapo Springs. Our magic carpet will take you from the bottom of the park to the top in no time to do it all again. Have a thrilling time, enjoy the beautiful lake and mountain views and recharge in the onsite Altitude 720 Café & Bar afterwards.

Tekapo Star Gazing combines the stunning Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve with the soul-warming hot pools of Tekapo Springs. A 1.5-hour tour, the first half begins with an introduction to the night sky with our stargazing guides, and is complemented by looking through high-powered telescopes pointed at interesting features of the night sky. During poor weather, the tour is inside, using Oculus Go virtual reality headsets to take you on a journey through the universe. Then let the real world melt away as you relax in the hot pools on a floating hammock to ensure easy sky viewing. You'll feel like you’re floating among the stars while your guide tells stories that combine...

Your alpine odyssey lifts off from Lake Tekapo, rising above the turquoise waters and golden tussocks of the Mackenzie Basin, before heading towards the Southern Alps. As the rolling hills of the great high country farms give way to glacier-fed lakes and icy torrents, the flight travels over the deep glaciated valleys of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Known to Māori as Aoraki (the cloud piercer), New Zealand’s tallest mountain looms over a vast wilderness. Thrill to close-ups of the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest glacier - a dynamic, ancient river of blue ice, giant seracs, jagged crevasses, and the famed Hochstetter Icefall. Land in the mountains to admire the vistas, snap some...

The West Coast is a short flight away from Lake Tekapo and Air Safaris offers you the opportunity to fly over the main divide of the Southern Alps for a ½ day excursion. On the West Coast at Franz Josef you have a range of activities to choose from including nature tours, heli-hiking, four wheeler adventures, guided glacier walks, and a soak in the hot pools. We are happy to arrange activities for you. Experience a spectacular scenic flight that explores the Mount Cook and Westland National Parks flying over New Zealand’s highest mountains and largest glaciers. Our aircraft offer a window seat for all passengers and have wings-above for unobstructed viewing below. Your friendly pilot...

Our exclusive helicopter wedding or engagement packages mean you’ll have the flight all to yourselves! Celebrate your special day with a scenic flight and 30-minute private alpine or snow landing – the perfect backdrop for spectacular photos. If you’re planning a proposal with a difference, we have an exclusive location overlooking Lake Tekapo so you can ask your beloved that special question. Our wedding options can include a photographer package for three people, on a private flight to capture those perfect photos of your magical day. Flights range from 45 to 60 minutes and all wedding and engagement packages can be individually tailored for you – just talk to our friendly team about...