You chase the views that make you stop walking. From swing bridges to alpine tracks to moody coastline, this is nature without the crowds — raw, grounding, and quietly unreal.
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Nature Seeker
From swing bridges to alpine tracks to moody coastline, this is nature without the crowds.
Things to do
Nature
An easy-to-intermediate gorge walk with sweeping Rakaia River views, native bush, historic sites and a touch of quirky local charm.
Nature
Rakaia Gorge Walkway
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Follow the rim of the spectacular Rakaia Gorge on this 10.4 km return track and take in sweeping views of the turquoise river below, framed by the majestic Southern Alps. The journey leads you through pockets of native forest, along the historic ferryman’s route, and across ancient glacial terraces. Pause at scenic lookout points and explore remnants of the Snowdon coal mines that whisper stories of the past. For something truly special, stop at the Fantail Shop to send mail from the heart of the bush—a delight you won’t find anywhere else. This easy-to-intermediate walk is a perfect blend of nature, history, and adventure.
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<list>
<item key="Location">otautahi-christchurch</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">1 hr</item>
</list>
Adventure
A heart-pounding skydive above Aoraki/Mount Cook, freefalling over glaciers, turquoise lakes and New Zealand’s highest peaks.
Adventure
Skydiving
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Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush above some of the world's most iconic scenery. Jump from up to 20,000 feet above New Zealand’s highest peaks and freefall over snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, and vast glaciers. As you soar through crisp alpine air, enjoy unmatched panoramic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park before your parachute opens for a smooth, scenic descent. It’s an unforgettable blend of heart-pounding excitement and breathtaking natural beauty
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<list>
<item key="Location">Mackenzie</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">3 hrs 30 mins</item>
</list>
Nature
A remote and iconic Lord of the Rings filming location, offering sweeping views of the Rangitata River and surrounding alpine peaks.
Nature
Mount Sunday
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One of the most remote Lord of the Rings locations one can publically access - Mount Sunday is a stunning sight with expansive views of the Rangitata River and the surrounding mountains.
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<list>
<item key="Location">otautahi-christchurch</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">2 hrs 15 mins</item>
</list>
Adventure
A guided 4WD adventure through Mackenzie’s remote backcountry, exploring rugged stations, riverbeds and alpine valleys with local insight.
Adventure
4WD adventuring
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Unlock access to some of New Zealand's most remote and dramatic landscapes with a 4WD experience. Travel off the beaten track through rugged high-country stations, riverbeds, and alpine valleys, surrounded by wide open plains and towering mountains. Expert guides share local stories while leading you to hidden viewpoints, historic sites, and untouched scenery. From scenic exploration to light adventure, a 4WD experience offers an exciting way to connect with the raw beauty and rich heritage of the Mackenzie backcountry.
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<list>
<item key="Location">Mackenzie</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">3 hrs</item>
</list>
Stargazing for People Who Don’t Know Their Orion from Their Elbow
You don’t need to know constellations to enjoy the world-renowned Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve—just look up.
Nature
Stargazing for People Who Don’t Know Their Orion from Their Elbow
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<paragraph> You don’t need to know your constellations to enjoy the night sky. You just need darkness, time, and somewhere to look up. </paragraph>
<paragraph> The <bold>Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve</bold> is one of the best stargazing spots on the planet. That’s not a tourism line — it’s official. And it shows. </break>Park up near <bold>Tekapo</bold>, <bold>Lake Pūkaki</bold>, or anywhere with low light and clear air. <bold>Skyscape</bold> near <bold>Twizel</bold> blends comfort with cosmos if you want a bed beneath the stars. Or keep it simple: a thermos, a blanket, and a reason to stay outside longer than usual. </paragraph>
<paragraph> Even city edges like <bold>Banks Peninsula</bold> or the hills above <bold>Timaru</bold> give you more sky than you’re used to. Bonus: no light pollution, no crowds, no need for an app. </break>Just space — and stars. </paragraph>
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<list> <item key="Location">Mackenzie Region & Dark Sky Reserve</item> <item key="Itinerary">Recommended Overnight</item> <item key="Distance">3 hrs from CHC Airport</item> <item key="Hours">Best After Dark</item> <item key="Price">Free (Self-guided)</item> </list>
Nature
A magical stargazing experience near Akaroa, with crystal-clear skies, expert storytelling and unforgettable Milky Way views.
Nature
Akaroa Stargazing
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Just outside Christchurch on Banks Peninsula, Akaroa Stargazing invites you to discover crystal-clear night skies, expert storytelling and unforgettable views of the Milky Way. A magical after-dark experience that connects you to the universe in one of New Zealand’s darkest skies.
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<list>
<item key="Location">otautahi-christchurch</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">1 hr 45 mins</item>
</list>
Nature
Guided high country hikes in Mackenzie, offering exclusive access to private stations and alpine landscapes from Lake Tekapo to Aoraki.
Nature
Guided high country hike
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Mackenzie guided high country hikes offer exclusive access to vast private stations and iconic alpine scenerydeep in the Southern Alps. Tekapo Adventures and Alpine Recreation offer multi-day option, Glentanner Heli Hike offers half-day gentle decline guided tour of their station adjacent to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and Hike Tekapo offers a range of single-day guided walks overlooking Lake Tekapo.
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<list>
<item key="Location">Mackenzie</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">3 hrs 30 mins</item>
</list>
Best places to stargaze in the Central South Island
Experience the Central South's darkest skies, from the Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve to the coastal stars of Kaikōura.
Nature
Best places to stargaze in the Central South Island
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<paragraph> In the Central South, night settles in slowly. The air cools, the land exhales and the sky wakes up. Far from city glare and crowded viewpoints, light pollution drops away and the Southern Hemisphere sky lights up with glittering stars ready to dazzle in the dark. </paragraph>
<title> Lake Tekapo & the Mackenzie Basin </title> <paragraph> This is New Zealand’s stargazing heartland. The Mackenzie Basin is part of an International Dark Sky Reserve, meaning the skies are among the darkest, and clearest, found anywhere. Around Lake Tekapo, the stars arrive early and stay late. The Milky Way stretches clear across the sky, painting the dark with a bright sparkling. </paragraph>
<title> Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park </title> <paragraph> At the edge of the Mackenzie, Aoraki Mt Cook National Park offers stargazing that feels vast in every direction. The mountains cut a dramatic silhouette against the night sky, anchoring the stars above. Here, silence is part of the experience. Simply look up and let the sky take over. These are the kind of stars that remind us how much light we usually live with. </paragraph>
<title> Kaikōura </title> <paragraph> Kaikōura is home to a rugged beauty that works just as hard at night as it does by day. Between the ocean and mountains, this dark coastal sky is expansive. Light fades quickly as stars appear one by one over the ranges and the breaking shore. Named an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, these pristine dark skies offer stunningly clear sights of celestial wonders. </paragraph>
<title> Hanmer Springs </title> <paragraph> Hot springs. Cool air. A sky full of stars. When night falls in Hanmer Springs, the town quiets and the sky takes over. With low surrounding light and crisp alpine air, when darkness arrives the stars appear in force. The Southern Cross sits high, the Milky Way stretches wide, and it's all best observed from the piping hot natural hot springs. </paragraph>
<title> Akaroa </title> <paragraph> Akaroa is spectacular by day and magic by night. Once the harbour settles and the lights dim, the sky takes over. With minimal light pollution and sea air that seems to sharpen everything, stargazing here feels completely immersive. Step outside, look up, and you’ll find the Milky Way stretching wide, constellations crisp and uncluttered, and shooting stars doing their thing. </paragraph>
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<list> <item key="Location">Central South Island</item> <item key="Itinerary">Evening / Overnight</item> <item key="Distance">Varies (Multi-region)</item> <item key="Hours">Best After Dark</item> <item key="Price">Free (Self-guided)</item> </list>
Nature
An immersive farm tour where you taste, touch and experience life on a working New Zealand farm, sharing stories, history and real rural life.
Nature
Geraldine Farm Tours
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Geraldine Farm Tours is a truly immersive experience - our guests get to taste, touch, see and feel what it is like to be a part of a working farm. Be a part of our farming story, share in our history and “yarns” and experience a very real, authentic NZ farm.
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<list>
<item key="Location">Timaru</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">2 hrs</item>
</list>
Nature
A year-round whale watching experience in Kaikōura, led by resident sperm whales and joined by dolphins, seals, seabirds and migrating species.
Nature
Whale Watch Kaikoura
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Every Whale Watch tour is a unique experience and the sightings vary. Giant Sperm Whales are the stars of the show and year-round residents. These Sperm Whales share these waters with up to 14 other species of whales and dolphins that migrate past at different times of the year. This unique marine experience also provides an opportunity to sight high-spirited Dusky Dolphins, the rare and endangered Hectors Dolphin, New Zealand Fur Seals and a wide variety of sea birds including the Royal Albatross.
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<list>
<item key="Location">Kaikōura</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">>3 hrs</item>
</list>
Nature
A short, adventurous Port Hills walk through bush and limestone, revealing hidden caves, city views and a true sense of discovery.
Nature
Barnett Park cave track
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Tucked into the Port Hills, the Barnett Park Cave Track is a short but adventurous walk through native bush and limestone formations. Perfect for curious explorers, it rewards effort with hidden caves, sweeping city views and a real sense of discovery.
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<list>
<item key="Location">otautahi-christchurch</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">35 mins</item>
</list>
Top nature stays in the Central South Island
Wake up to rainforests, thermal pools, and dark skies at these top nature stays across the Central South.
Nature
Top nature stays in the Central South Island
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<paragraph> In the Central South, the best places to stay are defined by what’s outside the window: rainforest, mountains, coast, stars. These are stays for people who travel to soak up the sights and sounds nature shares. </paragraph>
<title> Maruia Springs (Hurunui) </title> <paragraph> Thermal pools, forest sounds, no reception. Tucked deep in native forest near Lewis Pass, Maruia Springs is where people go to discover what wellness truly means. Natural thermal pools steam gently, native birds provide the melodies, and the day-to-day feels far away. Evenings are quiet and warmly lit, with nourishing food and peaceful night skies. Come here to disconnect properly. </paragraph>
<title> Rainforest Retreat (West Coast – Franz Josef) </title> <paragraph> Set on the edge of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, Rainforest Retreat places you in the heart of the forest. Literally. Wake up amongst towering trees, thick fern and misty skies that feel quietly dramatic. Choose a tree lodge or chalet and let the rainforest do the rest. You’re minutes from glaciers and forest walks, some of the region's greatest natural treasures. </paragraph>
<title> Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat (Mackenzie) </title> <paragraph> Dark skies, sparkling water and room to breathe. Overlooking Lake Pukaki, Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is all about scale. Expansive views by day, extraordinary skies after dark. The luxury high country station estate lets New Zealand’s tallest mountain, and the magnificent Mackenzie Basin take centre stage. Spend your evenings soaking in outdoor tubs as stars emerge one by one, indulging in the peace and stillness of it all. </paragraph>
<title> Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses (Kaikōura) </title> <paragraph> Elevated luxury. Literally. Set between mountains and sea, Hapuku Lodge offers a rare balance of refinement and raw landscape. The tree houses rise above native manuka, opening out to sweeping views of the Kaikōura coast and ranges beyond. Your days might include coastal walks, whale sightings, or simply sitting on the deck with a good book. Evenings are calm and deeply comfortable. A place up high, for you to slow down. </paragraph>
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<list> <item key="Location">Central South Island</item> <item key="Itinerary">Overnight Stays</item> <item key="Distance">Varies (Multi-region)</item> <item key="Hours">Check-in Varies</item> <item key="Price">$$$–$$$$</item> </list>
Nature
New Zealand’s only glacial boat cruise on Tasman Lake, weaving among icebergs beneath Aoraki in a surreal, ever-changing alpine setting.
Nature
Glacier Explorers (Boat Ride)
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New Zealand's only glacial boat experience. In the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park cruise around the Tasman Glacial Lake. Experience the enormity of NZ's largest glacier as you weave in and out of floating icebergs. It’s a surreal and mesmerising experience in a totally unique environment. No two days are the same on the Tasman Lake with a constant shifting of conditions, which simply adds to the magic of this very special place.
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<list>
<item key="Location">Mackenzie</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">4 hrs 20 mins</item>
</list>
Nature
Stargaze under Kaikōura’s dark skies with a pro astrophotographer, stories, hot drinks, gourmet picnic and a take-home astro selfie.
Nature
Stargrazing in Kaikoura
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Enjoy the night sky with chairs and blankets while a Professional Astrophotographer shares with you the stories of the region and makes photos for you or get involved and bring your camera and make your own night sky photos all while enjoying hot drink and our gourmet picnic platter and experience the World's darkest of skies with your naked eye and our camera, take home a digital astro selfie.
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<list>
<item key="Location">Kaikōura</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">>3 hrs</item>
</list>
Nature
A tranquil alpine lake near Hawarden, ideal for swimming, paddling, picnics and relaxed walks amid calm waters and mountain views.
Nature
Lake Taylor
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Lake Taylor is a tranquil alpine lake nestled in the hills inland from Hawarden, offering a peaceful escape into nature. Popular for swimming, paddleboarding and picnicking in summer, and surrounded by walking tracks, it’s a favourite spot for both locals and visitors. With calm waters and mountain backdrops, Lake Taylor is ideal for slowing down and enjoying Hurunui’s outdoor lifestyle.
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<list>
<item key="Location">Hurunui</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">2 hrs 45 mins</item>
</list>
Nature
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
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A visit to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is a must on the New Zealand bucket list. The national park is home to the country’s highest peaks and longest glaciers, where alpine landscapes unfold in every direction — from turquoise glacial lakes and braided rivers to rugged trails that lead you deep into the heart of the Southern Alps. Whether you’re here to hike, stargaze beneath some of the darkest skies in the world, or simply stand still and take it all in, Aoraki/Mount Cook has a quiet way of reminding you how small you are — and how special this place really is.
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<list>
<item key="Location">Mackenzie</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">4 hrs 30 mins</item>
</list>
Nature
A photogenic West Coast gem, with vivid turquoise water framed by white limestone cliffs and lush rainforest.
Nature
Hokitika Gorge
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A true photogenic gem — brilliant turquoise water fringed with stark white limestone cliffs and lush green rainforest — Hokitika Gorge is one of the West Coast’s most instantly recognisable scenes.
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<list>
<item key="Location">West Coast</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">3 hrs 45 mins</item>
</list>
Nature
A dramatic coastal walk above the Pacific, combining sweeping ocean views, windswept headlands and historic WWII sites.
Nature
Godley Head Walk
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Perched above the Pacific, the Godley Head walking track delivers dramatic coastal views, historic WWII gun emplacements and windswept headlands. It’s an easy escape from the city where rugged landscapes, ocean air and history combine in one unforgettable walk.
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<list>
<item key="Location">otautahi-christchurch</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">45 mins</item>
</list>
Nature
Home to New Zealand’s largest dark sky reserve, Mackenzie offers world-famous stargazing and pioneering astro-tourism under pristine night skies.
Nature
Stargazing
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The Mackenzie is home of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the Southern Hemisphere's first and New Zealand's largest dark sky reserve. World famous for its pristine night skies, the region is considered pioneer in astro-tourism experiences and has over 10 different operators including the famous Dark Sky Project at UC Mount John Observatory, a real working research centre overlooking Lake Tekapo.
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<list>
<item key="Location">Mackenzie</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">3 hrs 15 mins</item>
</list>
Nature
Iconic layered limestone stacks with dramatic blowholes, reached via an easy coastal loop where the sea puts on a powerful natural show.
Nature
Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
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Rising from the sea, the Pancake Rocks are part of a heavily eroded limestone area where the sea bursts through underwater channels and escapes via vertical blowholes. The easy Pancake Rocks Track is a 20-minute loop but double (or triple) that to leave enough time to view the blowhole action.
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<list>
<item key="Location">West Coast</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">4 hrs</item>
</list>
Nature
A hands-on encounter with New Zealand’s birds of prey, learning how they hunt, the threats they face and their cultural significance.
Nature
The Raptor Experience
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Get up close with New Zealand's raptors in a unique, hands-on experience. Learn about New Zealand's meat eating birds, how they hunt, dangers to their safety and, their cultural significance.
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<list>
<item key="Location">Timaru</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">2 hrs 30 mins</item>
</list>
Nature
An easy coastal walkway from town, with ocean views, seals, seabirds, historic sites and clifftop scenery year-round.
Nature
Kaikoura Peninsula Walk
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The Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway is known for its ocean views, marine wildlife, and easy access from the Kaikōura town centre. Observe seals and seabirds, explore historic sites and enjoy clifftop views while walking part of the track or, if you're feeling energetic, the full length. To fully explore and enjoy the features of the walk start at Kaikōura town centre and continue to Point Kean car park. This stunning walk can be done at any time of year, but it is particularly stunning in winter with the snow-capped mountains in the background.
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<list>
<item key="Location">Kaikōura</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">>3 hrs</item>
</list>
Nature
A hands-on alpaca experience in South Canterbury, where you meet, feed and walk with friendly alpacas through peaceful countryside.
Nature
Alpaca Walks NZ
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Meet, feed, and walk alongside friendly alpacas while taking in the peaceful countryside of Winchester, South Canterbury. This hands-on experience is perfect for all ages — enjoy the gentle nature of these curious creatures, learn their unique personalities, and capture unforgettable photos as you stroll together through the paddocks.
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<list>
<item key="Location">Timaru</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">2 hrs 30 mins</item>
</list>
Nature
Swim with Kaikōura’s wild dusky dolphins in the open ocean, a thrilling, world-class encounter that unfolds entirely on their terms.
Nature
Dolphin Encounter
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Kaikōura is one of the best places in the world to encounter dolphins in their natural environment. It's just you, the open ocean... and Kaikōura's wild Dusky Dolphins. One of the most interactive and acrobatic species of dolphin, they're thrilling to watch and magical to interact with. The encounter is all on their terms. With one of the highest success rates in the world, this bucket list experience is one you will never forget!
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<list>
<item key="Location">Kaikōura</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">>3 hrs</item>
</list>
Nature
An untouched Mid Canterbury wilderness of alpine lakes and wide-open landscapes, perfect for scenic drives, hikes, camping and stargazing.
Nature
Hakatere Conservation Park
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An untouched paradise nestled in the heart of Mid Canterbury, New Zealand. If you're seeking a haven of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and a chance to connect with the wilderness, look no further. Embrace the call of the wild and embark on an unforgettable journey through Hakatere Conservation Park. Whether you drive through this incredible landscape to enjoy the views, go on an explorative hike, or camp by the lakeside and gaze at the stars, there's something for all kinds of nature lovers here.
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<list>
<item key="Location">otautahi-christchurch</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">1 hr 45 mins</item>
</list>
Nature
Scenic flights over the Southern Alps, revealing turquoise lakes, braided rivers and sweeping views of Aoraki/Mount Cook from the air.
Nature
Scenic flights
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Experience a spectacular perspective of New Zealand’s alpine heart. Soar above turquoise lakes, braided rivers, and rugged mountain ranges, with breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and its surrounding glaciers. From the air, the vast scale and beauty of the Southern Alps truly come to life. Whether by small plane or helicopter, these flights provide an unforgettable way to experience remote landscapes that are otherwise inaccessible - perfect for photography, adventure, and a once-in-a-lifetime aerial journey.
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<list>
<item key="Location">Mackenzie</item>
<item key="Distance From CHC Airport">3 hrs 30 mins</item>
</list>
Forest & River Walks to Get Lost In
Explore moody forests and glassy rivers with the Rakaitane Walk and Carew Falls Track—short, scenic walks near Lake Brunner.
Trail
Forest & River Walks to Get Lost In
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<paragraph> If you like your nature damp, quiet, and a little bit moody — these are for you. </paragraph>
<paragraph> The <bold>Rakaitane Walk</bold> near <bold>Lake Brunner</bold> is an easy 45-minute loop through mature podocarp forest. It crosses a suspension bridge over the Arnold River, where you’ll get panoramic lake views and those glassy reflections that make you pause mid-step. </paragraph>
<paragraph> For something a bit more vertical, the <bold>Carew Falls Track</bold> climbs gently through mossy forest to a high waterfall that throws cool mist into the air on a hot day. Immense granite boulders act as lookouts. Great for feet-dangling and snack breaks. </paragraph>
<paragraph> These walks are short, sweet, and best taken slow. No crowds. Just birdsong and bush. </paragraph>
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<list> <item key="Location">Lake Brunner, West Coast</item> <item key="Itinerary">45 Mins – 1 Hour</item> <item key="Distance">3 hrs from Christchurch</item> <item key="Hours">Daylight Hours</item> <item key="Price">Free</item> </list>
