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Our urban hire bikes are perfect for strolls through Hagley Park

Mackenzie

  • 3 min read

Mackenzie

The Mackenzie region (also known as the Mackenzie Basin) was shaped by massive glaciers. Mesmerising sights include turquoise lakes, incredibly clear, starry night skies and NZ’s highest mountain, majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook. Mackenzie is renowned for its awe inspiring surroundings and high country beauty, ride for a week or stop for a breather at one of the many great small towns in the region.

Mackenzie Dirt Features 

Braided River Riding - Tekapo Magic by Dave Mitchell

A2O - Riding High by Rachel Lamb

Ohau by Dave Mitchell

Mackenzie Trails

Alps 2 Ocean

The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail extends more than 300 kilometres from Aoraki / Mount Cook to Oamaru on the Pacific Ocean. Suitable for all ages, the trail is an easy grade, and offers a mix of on and off-road trails. There are 9 sections and most riders will take 5-6 days to complete the trail.


Fairlie

Fairlie Walkway

If you’re staying at the Fairlie Top10 turn right from your accommodation and drop into the walkway town-side of the main bridge. Follow the river downstream, and return 13km loop.
Follow the river downstream, it’s a fun albeit easy single track. When you get to the track’s end, return the way you came or cross the river and add on the Spur Road loop for a great view of the Two Thumb Range.

Four Peaks High Country Track

Four Peaks High Country Track is a 4 day/night Walk or Mountain Bike ride over an historic sheep & cattle Station, in the hills between Geraldine & Fairlie. You stay in charming shepherd's huts and get to explore some of New Zealand's high country paradise.


Tekapo

Lake Tekapo Regional Park

Nestled on the eastern shore of the lake. The Park offers fun single track suitable for all levels. Access off Lilybank Rd.

Cowans Hill, Tekapo

From the townships main bridge, Cowans Hill gradually climbs into a small forest before crossing a poled 4WD track over firebreaks and tussock lands and exits close to the Regional Park.

Richmond Trail, Tekapo

The Richmond trail is located in the Te Kahui Kaupeka Conservation Park, and starts at a DOC carpark 3kms up Roundhill Ski Area access road. A fantastic ride consisting of an undulating tussock clad single track, a technical downhill section and some of the most picturesque views in the country. Intermediate riding, 26km return, 1-3hrs duration.

Twizel

Twizel River Trail

On the east side of SH8, opposite Twizel is the start of the River Trail. A DOC sign marks the track’s start with 12kms (one way) over an old farm track alongside the Twizel River. It’s an easy ride 2-3hrs return.
Dusky Trail, Twizel

A fun ride through scenic tussock lands from Twizel. The trail starts at Fraser Stream on Pukaki Canal Road, flanks the Fraser Stream through Darts Bush and climbs beneath the Ben Ohau Range. Return track, 22km 2-4hrs.

Omarama

Ahuriri Valley

Ahuriri conservation park is located inland between Lake Hawea and Lake Ohau. The trail up the valley is a challenging day ride or an overnight alpine adventure.

Accommodation - Mackenzie

Wander Lodge

Self-contained two bedroom cottage nestled in five acres of private forest. Sleeps seven. Well equipped kitchen. Cosy log burner. Outdoor fire pit, BBQ and pizza oven. Enjoy star gazing while relaxing in the outdoor bath. Linen supplied. Only 30 minutes to Dobson Carpark.

 

Ph: +64 21 029 34633
Web: wanderlodge.co.nz
E: info@wanderlodge.co.nz
Address: 67b Strathallan Road, Ashwick Flats

Pinewood Motels

Stay in the beautiful small town of Fairlie, Mackenzie Country. An affordable option just 25 minutes from Tekapo, Pinewood Motels’ units are recently refurbished, modern, clean and comfortable. Walking distance to bakeries, pubs and restaurants. Numerous local tracks to explore with mountain views. Sky box with Sport in every room. Fast free unlimited Wi-Fi, 50+ sky channels, cooking facilities, bathrooms and outdoor seating areas.

 

Ph: 0800 858 599
Web: Pinewoodmotels.co.nz
E: pinewoodmotels@xtra.co.nz
Address: 25 Mount Cook Road, Fairlie

 

Fairlie Holiday Park

Fairlie Holiday Park is located conveniently in Fairlie with easy access to the town center and main roads. There is a great selection of camp sites, sleeping units and two well appointed motel suits. There is a great play ground close for the kids, Come and stay and relax with the Alpine backdrop of the Two Thumb Range.

 

Ph: 027 381 4814
Web: www.fairlieholidaypark.co.nz
E: Fairlieholidaypark@gmail.com
Address: 14 Allandale Rd, Fairlie

 

Fox Peak Fox Lodge

Nestled amongst the trees halfway up the access road is Fox Lodge, backpacker style-mountain accommodation. It's self-catered but there is a modern kitchen with everything you need to rustle up your yummy dinner. Don't forget your sleeping bag, pillowcase, food, and drinks.

 

Web: foxpeak.co.nz

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