Lake Pukaki
Travel Information (approximate times)
Queenstown: 2h 35m
Tekapo: 35m
Timaru: 1h 50m
Geraldine: 1h 40m
Christchurch: 3h 30m
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Lake Pukaki
A 10 minute drive from Twizel and 30 minutes from Lake Tekapo Village, Lake Pukaki is the largest lake in the Mackenzie District covering 178 sq kms along the northern edge of the Mackenzie basin under the magnificent presence of New Zealand’s highest mountain Aoraki/Mount Cook. Glacial fed, its waters are turquoise blue caused by ‘glacial flour’ particles suspended in the water.
The scenery is startling. From SH8 and SH80 following the shoreline into the foothills of native bush and grandeur of the Southern Alps are high-country sheep stations, backcountry accommodation and luxury lodges, an organic lavender farm and salmon farms. Experience the taste of King Salmon at the Information Centre shop on SH8, and Stage 2 of the Alps 2 Ocean cycle.
Along the lake shore on SH80 towards Aoraki/Mount Cook is Glentanner Park Centre with a café offering great coffee and local produce, retail Merino products and souvenirs, family accommodation and out-door activities for those seeking adventure, education, solace or simply a family getaway.
Discover Lake Pukaki
This is pristine country to pause and breathe in the natural beauty and splendor; sample fresh salmon, guided walking, bike trails, scenic flights, unforgettable stargazing and photography experiences.
Mount Cook Alpine Salmon Shop
Information centre and shop on the shores of Lake Pukaki, on SH8 between Tekapo and Twizel. Sample fresh salmon from the purest fresh water on the plant. Perfectly chilled for a much prized southern delicacy. Open 7 days.
Glentanner Park Centre
Glentanner Park Centre has visitor information, excellent budget accommodation and camp sites, outdoor education facilities and bookings for Mt Cook National Park adventure activities, glacier trips & flightseeing. Café and retail outlet open daily.
Alpine Lavender
The largest organic lavender farm in the Southern hemisphere, grown in a natural, pristine environment. World-class lavender oils and products. On the Mt Cook Road, only five minutes drive off SH8. Open Nov - March.
Lake Pukaki Businesses
High country farming remains the strength of this area, often diversified with tourism activities and accommodation in this beautiful natural rugged landscape.
South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce
25 Canon Street, Timaru
Glentanner Park Centre
State Highway 80, Mount Cook
Mackenzie District Council
Main Street, Fairlie
Mount Cook Alpine Salmon
Pukaki Information Centre, Lake Pukaki
NZ Alpine Lavendar
657 Mt Cook Road, Ben Ohau, 7999
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