Makarora

Makarora is a tiny settlement at the head of Lake Wānaka, where the Southern Alps meet the braided rivers of the West Coast. It's the gateway to the remote wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park, offering a taste of New Zealand's raw, untamed beauty without the crowds. This is a place for those who crave solitude, epic landscapes, and genuine backcountry experiences.

Highlights & What to See

• Blue Pools Track: An easy, rewarding walk through beech forest to stunningly clear, turquoise pools on the Makarora River. Cross the swing bridge for classic photo ops.
• Young River Swing Bridge: A short detour off the highway leads to this historic bridge over a dramatic river gorge – perfect for a leg stretch and scenic views.
• Makarora River: A braided river system fed by glaciers; great for scenic flights, jet boat tours, or simply admiring the views from the road.
• Mount Aspiring National Park: The park's eastern boundary starts here, offering world-class tramping (hiking) and mountaineering. The Gillespie Pass Circuit is a multi-day classic.
• Makarora Wildlife: Keep an eye out for native birds like kea, fantails, and the occasional whio (blue duck) along the river.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travelers pass through Makarora in an hour or two on the drive between Wanaka and the West Coast glaciers. However, to truly appreciate the area, plan for at least a half-day to walk the Blue Pools and explore a short trail. If you're a keen tramper, budget 2-3 days for a longer backcountry adventure into Mount Aspiring National Park. Overnight stays are limited to a handful of lodges and a campground.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka: A 45-minute drive south, Wanaka offers lakefront dining, adventure activities, and the famous #ThatWanakaTree.
• Haast Pass: The scenic highway over the pass leads to the West Coast, with waterfalls, short walks, and the wild coastal scenery of Haast.
• Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers: About 2.5 hours northwest, these iconic glaciers offer heli-hikes and ice climbing.
• Mount Aspiring National Park: Access deeper into the park via the Raspberry Creek or Makarora road ends for tramping and hut stays.

Please check official sources for current details.