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What to do in Twizel
Everything you want to know about what to do in Twizel: cycling (Alps to Ocean, short: A2O), fishing, walking, tramping, golfing, dining and shopping. The best star-gazing and one of the best rowing or boating is right on your doorstep in Twizel!
What to do in Twizel: Fishing
Twizel is a premier fishing destination for its diversity of lake-fishing opportunities from either the boat or the shore. There is an abundance of waterways around Twizel from fast-flowing mountain rivers to gentle chalk streams full of trout and salmon.
The hydro canals are arguably the ultimate sports fishing destination in New Zealand, and the numerous lakes in the area serve as a nursery. The Southern Alps provide sparkling, crystal clear, cool waters, the perfect habitat for trout.
There are over 30 streams and lakes all within one hour’s drive from Twizel . However, the Ahuriri lake with its magnificent setting, wonderful water and the chance to land a trophy fish is our best kept secret. Most of the trout in these waters weigh between 1.5 and 2kgs.
The hydro canals are arguably the ultimate sports fishing destination in New Zealand, and the numerous lakes in the area serve as a nursery. The Southern Alps provide sparkling, crystal clear, cool waters, the perfect habitat for trout.
There are over 30 streams and lakes all within one hour’s drive from Twizel . However, the Ahuriri lake with its magnificent setting, wonderful water and the chance to land a trophy fish is our best kept secret. Most of the trout in these waters weigh between 1.5 and 2kgs.
What to do in Twizel: Hiking
From Twizel, it is less than a 45-minutes-drive to Aoraki/Mt Cook and the spectacular Aoraki National Park with its 14 peaks over 3000m. The DOC Visitor Information Centre in the tiny “Mt Cook Village” has ample information on all the tracks in this most alpine region of New Zealand.
What to do in Twizel: Cycling
One of New Zealand’s most popular multi-days biking tracks, the Alps-to-Ocean (A2O) passes right through Twizel. You have the choice to hire a bike or e-bike in Twizel and explore the track towards stunning Lake Pukaki, Lake Ohau or picturesque Lake Benmore.
What to do in Twizel: Star gazing
A vast area of 4300 km2 around Twizel is declared the protected Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve to enable premier star-gazing. Very limited light pollution means the views of the night sky seem to appear endless and like nothing else you’ve ever seen.
It is the largest Reserve of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, and one of only eight in the world. Within this reserve is New Zealand’s premier astronomical research centre, the Mount John Observatory.
It is the largest Reserve of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, and one of only eight in the world. Within this reserve is New Zealand’s premier astronomical research centre, the Mount John Observatory.
Scenic Mountain Flights
Flying is an all-time favourite sport (and sometimes a necessity) in this region. Aviators come from all over New Zealand and the world to experience true mountain flying. Further south in Omarama is the glider HQ of New Zealand located. This is also home to one of the most “in” cafes in the region: the Pink Glider. Do not miss.
What to do in Twizel: Golf
There are about 4-5 of NZ best Golf courses in easy reach including Twizel's own Ben Ohau Golf Course offering 9 holes, 16 Tees and magnificent views.
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