(Travelling North to South)
Fairlie
The first town in the Mackenzie region you will encounter when travelling from Christchurch is Fairlie (approximately 184 kms and 2 hours, 30 minutes driving time). Fairlie is a typical, small New Zealand town - quaint, picturesque and perfect for a stop to browse the quaint shops or have a relaxing cup of tea. Fairlie has banking facilities during normal weekday hours, police station, medical centre, a supermarket, petrol, cafes, shops and accommodation.
Tekapo
Next on your journey is Tekapo, a further 42 kms - 30 minutes - through Burkes Pass. Check road conditions in winter. Famous for its fantastic turquoise blue lake and panoramic mountain views, Tekapo is a popular place to stop, even if just to take in the incredible scenery. Tekapo does not have any banking facilities, but most businesses accept both eftpos and main credit cards.
The town has numerous cafes, restaurants, a supermarket, police station, petrol, accommodation and some very good tourist shops. Tekapo is also the base for a multitude of outdoor activities which can be booked in town at the information offices.
Mount Cook Village
Another one hour's drive and you will be in Mount Cook Village after leaving the main road and travelling up the side of Lake Pukaki.
This service area has accommodation, an airport, caf, restaurant, and is the base for viewing or climbing in Mount Cook National Park.
Twizel
From Tekapo direct to Twizel is 58kms - 40 minutes - travelling past the network of canals that form part of the Waitaki Hydro-Scheme.
Originally built to service the hydro-scheme construction, Twizel has stood the test of time and is now a popular holiday destination among South Islanders.
In Twizel you will find banking facilities, petrol, restaurants, cafes, bars, accommodation, general shopping as well as many activity operators for outdoor activities. Twizel is also the nearest base for Lake Ruataniwha, where many rowing and power boating events are held.
Omarama
Heading further south you arrive in Omarama, 64 kms or one hour. Omarama has a great Big Country feel and due to it's geography is renowned as New Zealand's premium gliding location. Omarama does not have any banking facilities, but eftpos and major credit cards are welcome. Services include general shopping, petrol, caf, restaurant, bars, accommodation, a medical centre and a police station.