Twizel, a charming town nestled in the picturesque surroundings of the Mackenzie Basin, offered us a wondrous experience as we embarked on a journey to explore the beauty of winter in the area.
Although we were unfortunate not to witness snowfall, the majestic mountains in the vicinity were blanketed in snow, painting a mesmerizing and awe-inspiring scenery that left an indelible impression on us.
How old is Twizel?
Twizel is the biggest town in the Mackenzie District in the Canterbury Region of the South Island of New Zealand. 1968, the town was established as a construction center for the Upper Waitaki hydroelectric scheme. The government built 550 houses and workshops at Ōtemātātā and then transported them to Twizel.
The construction crew built a network of approximately 24 km of curving streets, connecting them with a ring road known as Mackenzie Drive—shops and amenities are in the center for easy access. People could walk safely to the town center through green spaces. Initially, the plan was to take down the town after the construction, but because the public objected, the town stayed.
Discovering a bit of Twizel
While in Twizel, we had the fantastic opportunity to stroll along the stunning Twizel River trail. Every turn greeted us with breathtaking views of the beautiful natural surroundings.
Our adventure also took us to the peaceful shores of Lake Ruataniwha, the picturesque Ohau C Canal, and the serene Ohau River. Each of these locations added to the enchanting experience we had in this remarkable area.
Merino Lake
Merino Lake is an artificial lake with a beautiful natural backdrop, perfect for Brown trout fishing. The lake is calm and stretches for 0.55 kilometers, providing anglers with a peaceful environment for fishing. Whether casting from the shore or simply taking in the beauty of the surroundings, the lake is ideal for a fulfilling and scenic fishing experience.
Poaka Lake
The stunning natural beauty that surrounds this charming little lake makes it a perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts.
Whether you’re up for some fun activities in the Twizel area or want a peaceful getaway, this place has a bit for everyone. You can relax at the campsite, have a meal at the picnic tables, and enjoy watching the birds.
Getting there is easy – turn off SH8 onto the Pūkaki Canal Road and drive on the gravel road, enjoying the beautiful views along the way.
Pukaki Canal
The McKenzie Canal system, which was constructed during the 1970s and 1980s, was specifically engineered to offer the perfect conditions for nurturing enormous trout and salmon.
Well, not exactly, but you can find giant trout and salmon that taste deliciously like fresh water and not muddy.
These canals interconnect the waterways of Lake Tekapo, Ohau, Pukaki, and Ruataniwha, forming a 58 km network. The regulated water flow through these canals powers the turbines in the hydropower stations, creating a unique and intriguing environment for those seeking adventure and exploration. The views are magnificent.
Lake Pukaki
Lake Pukaki is the largest lake in the region, offering a stunning backdrop of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak.
The lake gets its striking bright turquoise color from fine rock particles from surrounding glaciers. The braided Tasman River feeds its northern end, originating from the Hooker and Tasman Glacier. When the sun hits the lake’s surface, it reflects off the particles, creating a stunning brilliant blue color.
This magnificent scenery of Lake Pukaki, featuring a beautiful lake, towering peaks, and expansive skies, provides an excellent opportunity to capture the ever-changing landscape.
Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo’s crystal-clear turquoise lake, surrounded by majestic mountain ranges, makes it one of the most stunning destinations in New Zealand. The iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, with its picturesque location overlooking the lake, is a must-visit for tourists seeking to experience the beauty and tranquility of the area.
Additionally, vibrant fields of blooming lupins enhance the already breathtaking scenery in spring.
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