58 MacKenzie Drive, Twizel, Mackenzie
Twizel was purpose-built in 1968 as a base for construction of the Upper Waitaki Power Scheme. It survives because a number of it's residents wanted to stay and is now a base for a range of sporting activites and an ecotour. The Department of Conservation escorts tours to a Hide to view the Kaki (Black Stilt) - one of the rarest wading birds in the world. The guided tours, available from October to March, provide an engrossing chance to see the beautful waders and learn how they are being saved from extinction.
The focal point for boating, water skiing, windsurfing, yachting and rowing is Lake Ruataniwha. Rowing National rowing events are held annually (usually late February - March) on the lake’s international standard rowing course.
For a quieter picnic, try Wairepo Arm where there are picnic tables and fireplaces and no powerboats are permitted. The Twin Lakes are the place for for shallow water, suitable for swimming and canoeing. More sporting canoeing and rafting can be done on most rivers in the area and Kelland Pond. There is also plenty of cycling to be done alongside the canals, all flat, easy and scenic.
After checking out the licensing and requirements for fishing, try your luck at the Twizel, Fraser and Ohau Rivers, Loch Cameron, Lakes Ruataniwha and Poaka and in the hydro canals.
When all freezes over, Twizel is the place to skate on ice. Depending on the thickness of the ice, there’s skating in winter at Lake Wardell. The two local skifields are Ohau and Tekapo.
Twizel is on the Alps 2 Ocean cycle trail.
For Fans of Lord of the Rings, Twizel is the pickup point for the PELENNOR FIELDS TWO HOUR TOUR at Ben Ohau Station.
Image Credit: Lawrence Makoona
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