Explore the Mackenzie Region
Twizel sits at the doorstep of some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes, turquoise lakes, glacier valleys, soaring peaks, golden tussock plains, and some of the clearest night skies on Earth.
SkyScape is perfectly positioned as your base for exploring the Mackenzie Region, giving you easy access to Mt Cook, Lake Pukaki, Tekapo, and world-class walking, cycling, and scenic experiences.
Whether you're stargazing, hiking, chasing sunrise colours over the mountains, or road-tripping through the South Island, this region offers endless possibilities in every season.
A landscape shaped by ice, sky, and time. Perfect for short walks, full-day hikes, glacier lake cruises, scenic flights, and photography. One of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations.
The trail passes right near SkyScape’s boundary lines. Ride through vast open country, glacier landscapes, and rolling high-country terrain.
Star Gazing
Set within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, our region offers some of the clearest stargazing in the world. Capture the Milky Way, trace southern constellations, and, on rare nights, glimpse the Aurora Australis far from city lights.
> Learn more about Star Gazing in the Mackenzie region
From gentle lakeside walks to alpine tracks in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, the Mackenzie Region offers unforgettable hiking and walking for all levels.
A shimmering, glacier fed lake famous for its unreal blue colour. Incredible for sunrise and sunset viewing, picnics, and scenic driving.
Home to iconic views, hot pools, the Church of the Good Shepherd, and world-renowned dark-sky experiences. A must-visit during any Mackenzie trip.
Soar over snowfields, glaciers, and Aoraki/Mt Cook. A breathtaking highlight for many guests.
Skiing
In winter, the Mackenzie Region becomes an alpine escape, with Ohau Snow Fields, Round Hill and Mt Dobson just over an hour from SkyScape.
SEASONAL EXPERIENCES
Make SkyScape your home base for exploring the Mackenzie Region.
Check availability and begin planning your South Island adventure.
Summer
Long daylight hours invite exploration. Hike alpine trails, swim in turquoise lakes, cycle open country roads, or take to the skies on a scenic flight. Evenings arrive gently, with warm air and wide horizons setting the tone for relaxed nights outdoors.
Autumn
As the basin turns gold and red, the air cools and the skies sharpen. Clear conditions and lengthening nights make autumn a favourite for photographers and stargazers seeking stillness and contrast.
Winter
Snow dusted peaks and frosty mornings define winter in the Mackenzie. With the longest nights of the year, darkness settles early, creating unmatched opportunities for unhurried, extended stargazing beneath crisp, clear skies.
Spring
The landscape reawakens in spring. Wildflowers bloom, rivers run full, and the air feels fresh and light. Longer evenings return, offering more time to linger outdoors as the stars gradually emerge.
SkyScape is a luxury, off-grid accommodation in Twizel, New Zealand, offering private glass roof cabins for stargazing in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
Contact
E: info@skyscape.co.nz
P: +64 21 111 0218
Address: 47 Ben Ohau Road, Twizel, New Zealand