Mackenzie Country, located in the heart of the South Island, offers a spectacular range of sights and experiences for first-time visitors. This high-country region is famous for its dramatic landscapes – think turquoise glacial lakes, golden tussock plains, and snow-capped peaks. Lake Tekapo is a must-see, home to the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and some of the best stargazing in the world thanks to the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Just a short drive away, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park boasts New Zealand's tallest mountain and a range of hiking trails, including the popular Hooker Valley Track. Other highlights include the vivid blue waters of Lake Pukaki, scenic alpine drives, glacier tours, and hot pools for relaxing under the stars. Whether you're into photography, hiking, astronomy, or just soaking up natural beauty, Mackenzie Country is a paradise waiting to be explored.
Mt Dobson Ski Area
Mt Dobson Ski Area is a family-owned, sun-drenched ski field nestled in a wide, treeless basin between Fairlie and Lake Tekapo, offering 14 well-groomed runs, including New Zealand's largest beginner-to-intermediate area – with a triple-chair, T-bar, platter, and rope tow servicing the slopes spanning about 400ha.
Golf
Fairlie Golf Club features a beautifully maintained, flat 18-hole course (Par 70 for men, Par 72 for women) with multiple tee options suited to juniors, men, and women, all set against the breathtaking mountain scenery of the Mackenzie region.
Tekapo Springs
Tekapo Springs, located at the base of Mount John on the shores of Lake Tekapo, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and family fun with its three alpine hot pools (36-38°C), cooler pools, steam rooms, and spa services – all overlooking breathtaking mountain and lake vistas .
Dark Sky Project
The Dark Sky Project at Lake Tekapo is a world-class astronomy and stargazing experience located in the heart of New Zealand's Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. It offers guided tours, powerful telescopes, and expert insights into the southern night sky, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the stars and the science behind them.
Roundhill Ski Field
Roundhill Ski Area is a family-owned field offering beginner-friendly slopes, wide groomed runs, and the world's longest and steepest rope tow – providing a thrilling 783m vertical drop for advanced skiers. Nestled above Lake Tekapo with spectacular views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Southern Alps, it features slope-side parking, fully licensed caf&eac s (including the charming von Brown Hut), ski/snowboard rentals, and expert lessons – ideal for families and learners alike.
Fairlie Heritage Museum
The Fairlie Heritage Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's rural past, showcasing one of the country's largest collections of vintage wagons, carriages, farm machinery, and even a functioning gyrocopter. Housed within historic buildings—including an old blacksmith's forge and railway station – the museum brings local pioneer life to life through captivating exhibits and a charming on-site café run by volunteers.
Central South Trail
Fairlie is part of the Central South Trail, a shared-use cycle and walk path that links Timaru→Pleasant Point→Fairlie→Tekapo. The Fairlie-Kimbell section is a gentle, scenic 12km ride – ideal for families or casual cyclists – with beautiful rural landscapes and tranquil views of the Opihi River.
Lake Opuha
Lake Opuha is a 700-hectare man-made reservoir just 12km from Fairlie, ideal for fishing brown and rainbow trout or salmon – anglers can cast from shore or take a boat onto the lake via several easy-access ramps. In the warmer months, it's a popular spot for boating, kayaking, water skiing, swimming, and picnicking beside its tranquil, sheltered waters.
Alpine Alpacas
Alpine Alpacas offers visitors the chance to meet and interact with friendly alpacas while learning about their care and the luxurious fleece they produce. Set against stunning Mackenzie Country scenery, the farm provides a memorable and family-friendly experience with photo opportunities, farm tours, and a shop featuring alpaca wool products.