Roadtrip Nation's New Zealand journey

Day 11: Lake Tekapo to Wanaka

On this page: Travel time:   Km/Miles Lake Tekapo - Twizel 0.75 hr  58/36 Twizel - Omarama 0.5 hr  30/19 Omarama - Wanaka 1.25 hrs  111/69   Totals for Day 2.5 hrs  199/124

Lake Tekapo - Twizel - Omarama - Wanaka

The settlement of Lake Tekapo is at the southern end of the lake. The exquisite opaque turquoise colour of this lake and others in the area is caused by fine, glacier-ground rock particles held in suspension. Fishing, kayaking, bike riding, horse trekking and skiing are some of the things you can do. The Church of the Good Shepherd and the sheepdog statue are great photo opportunities.

The short drive to Twizel takes you past the southern end of beautiful Lake Pukaki. Enjoy the golden tussock and snow-capped mountain landscape.

The town of Twizel was purpose-built in the 1960s to provide a home for workers involved with the Upper Waitaki Power Scheme. Today it is a well-placed base for mountain climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, skiing, horse trekking and hiking. It’s also a place to spy on the rarest wading bird in the world – the Black Stilt. If you don’t have the time to catch your own salmon, the local salmon farm sells it – fresh or smoked.

Scenic Highlights

Lake Tekapo
Walk the lake shore or climb Mount John to appreciate the lonely high country beauty of the Mackenzie Basin.

Activities

Christchurch - Canterbury
Climbing (2), Cycling/Mountain Biking (5), Fishing – Fresh Water (10), Kayaking – Fresh Water (1), Scenic Flights (5), Skiing (7)

Tour and Sightseeing

Christchurch - Canterbury
Cycling/Mountain Biking (12), Fishing – Fresh Water (2), Scenic Flights (1), Skiing (2)

Lake Tekapo - Twizel - Omarama - Wanaka

Twizel is a well-placed base for mountain climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, skiing, horse trekking and hiking. It’s also a place to spy on the rarest wading bird in the world – the Black Stilt. If you don’t have the time to catch your own salmon, the local salmon farm sells it – fresh or smoked.

The easy drive to Omarama takes you through picturesque sheep farming country fringed with mountain ranges. You’ll have the chance to detour to the fascinating Paritea cliffs, which are constantly being exposed by the active Osler fault line. You could also pause to cast a line into the Ahuriri River – famous for sizeable rainbow and brown trout.

You’ll know you’re in Omarama when you see the giant merino sheep statue. This area’s unique geography has made it a magnet for gliding enthusiasts. The northwesterly wind blows steadily to form the famous Northwest Arch, a thermal that can take the glider pilots to 10,000 metres. Scenic soaring can be arranged.

Activities

Christchurch - Canterbury
Climbing (2), Cycling/Mountain Biking (5), Farms (10), Fishing – Fresh Water (10), Glider Planes (1), Paragliding and Hang gliding (2)

Tour and Sightseeing

Christchurch - Canterbury
Cycling/Mountain Biking (12), Farms (2), Fishing – Fresh Water (2)

Lake Tekapo - Twizel - Omarama - Wanaka

You’ll know you’re in Omarama when you see the giant merino sheep statue. This area’s unique geography has made it a magnet for gliding enthusiasts. The northwesterly wind blows steadily to form the famous Northwest Arch, a thermal that can take the glider pilots to 10,000 metres. Scenic soaring can be arranged.

Your trip to Wanaka begins with the beautiful Lindis Pass – in winter the mountains are dusted with snow, in summer the landscape is painted in shades of gold. The small settlement of Tarras is an excellent place to shop for merino wool products. You’ll be in contact with the Clutha River for the last leg of your journey.

The lakeside resort town of Wanaka can provide you with an appealing mix of fine living, family fun and adventure. It has a high concentration of cafes, restaurants and interesting shops. You’ll also find some unique attractions, like the 3D maze and the ‘warbird’ air show, which is held every two years.

Scenic Highlights

Kidds Bush
A splendid place for a picnic or a couple of days camping, Kidds Bush lets you enjoy the incredible beauty of Lake Hawea.

Lakes Wanaka and Hawea
Framed by mountains, these glacier-carved lakes can be enjoyed from the water or by hiking shoreline tracks.

The Crown Range
There are two ways to drive between Queenstown and Wanaka, and this one is the most memorable. It's the highest main road in New Zealand.

Rob Roy Glacier Track
Walk into the alpine zone beneath Mount Rob Roy. This half day on-foot adventure brings you face to face with active glaciers.

Clutha River walk
The immense Clutha River handles the outflow from Lake Wanaka. Walk the riverbank to Albert Town and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

Cardrona Valley
The road along Cardrona Valley can take you to all kinds of active adventures or a great meal at the historic hotel.

Mount Iron and Mount Roy
Mount Iron and Mount Roy are two hiking challenges that will reward you with astounding views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Lindis Pass
This alpine area of tall, tussock-covered mountains is beautiful in every season, but with a dusting of snow it's particularly enchanting.

Activities

Christchurch - Canterbury
Scenic Flights (5), Skiing (7), Walking/Trekking (17)

Lake Wanaka
Walking/Trekking (5)

Tour and Sightseeing

Christchurch - Canterbury
Scenic Flights (1), Skiing (2), Walking/Trekking (16)

Tour and Sightseeing

Lake Wanaka
Boat Cruises (1), Walking/Trekking (2)