Mount Cook & South Canterbury Itinerary
Tekapo, on the shores of the beautiful
Lake Tekapo, is a fine base from which to explore
Mt Cook Mackenzie Country. The best perspective on a region renowned for its scenic beauty, is provided by
Air Safaris, with its 50-minute flight over Mt Cook, the Southern Alps, Westland and Mount Cook National Parks, and Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers.
Alternatively, it is possible to fly or drive (two hours) to Mt Cook Village along scenic State Highway 80, which hugs Lake Pukaki. Dominated by the country's highest peak, this alpine village offers a range of adventure sports including glacier skiing, hiking, walking, mountaineering and fishing.
Following the scenic flight, stay in Tekapo and opt for one of the many adventure options, including horse trekking, bicycle touring, lake cruises, fishing or for the more adventurous heli-skiing or heli-mountain biking. Dine at any of Lake Tekapo's restaurants before heading out for a star gazing tour with Tekapo Tours.
The next day, continue on to the famous Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo, where a statue of a sheepdog honours the region's working dogs. Drive eastwards to either spend the day on the skifields at Mt Dobson or Fox Peak, or fish, kayak or jetboat in the region's lakes and rivers. Continue down State Highway 8 to
Timaru, calling at Cave, where Maori rock drawings can be seen. Continue on to
Pleasant Point with its railway, the only 1925 Ford Model T, a working blacksmith, historic Denheath House, and award-winning
Opihi Vineyard. Numerous heritage trails make the most of the district, taking travellers off the beaten track. Spend the night in Timaru.