Mackenzie District

The Mackenzie District is a local government district located in the centre of the South Island in the Canterbury region. Showcasing the tallest mountain in New Zealand, the bright turquoise waters of the stunning Lake Tekapo, and the sprawling New Zealand countryside, the Mackenzie District consists of a multitude of different landscapes within one small region, and is a must-visit on any South Island journey.

With only three towns with a population over 300 (Fairlie, Geraldine, and Tekapo), and a handful of other smaller settlements, the Mackenzie District really is nature’s playground. With a plethora of snow sports and activities to try on Aoraki Mount Cook such as skiing, snowboarding, heliskiing, or mountaineering, there are also a number of other activities to do in the area. Have a go at ice skating or mountain biking, explore the areas filmed in The Lord of the Rings by horseback, go fishing or kayaking, or spend your evening stargazing at the famous Mt John Observatory.

Whatever you do, this is one part of New Zealand where you truly won’t believe your eyes.