Activities

Whether you're interested in adventure activities, short walks or quiet relaxation, there are plenty of recreational activities available in Makarora and the surrounding area all year round.

Makarora valley offers a multitude of options for hunting and fishing trips, short walks and day hikes in Mount Aspiring National Park, as well as stunning scenic flights over the Southern Alps. 

The region is renowned for its plentiful river and lake fishing with Lake Wanaka, Lake Hawea and the Wilkin and Young rivers close by.

Fallow deer and chamois often frequent the mountains in the Makarora Valley.

For a spectacular day trip, take a scenic flight into the Siberia valley in Mount Aspiring National Park and either catch a jet boat ride out along the Wilkin River or take the walking track which follows the river back to Makarora through spectacular beech forest. This trip is often described as the best one-day walk in New Zealand so make sure you include it on your South Island itinerary.

The Makarora Valley is an ideal location for wilderness photography with rugged mountains, winding riverbeds and native rainforest, home to falcons and wood pigeons. Makarora River Ranch is an ideal venue for weekend art workshops with plenty of space to accommodate groups and a relaxed atmosphere.

Further afield, Central Otago is a renowned wine-growing region. While some of your party are exploring the mountains, take a wine tour to Cromwell where a number of award-winning wineries offer cellar door tastings and the best of local produce.