Makarora

Makarora is a tiny settlement cradled by the Southern Alps at the head of Lake Wanaka, where the Makarora River meets the lake. It's a gateway to the wilds of Mount Aspiring National Park, offering a serene base for hiking, jet-boating, and fly-fishing. The landscape here is pure, raw New Zealand: ancient beech forests, turquoise braided rivers, and towering peaks that catch the last light of day. This is the place to pause and breathe before diving into the adventures of the Haast Pass or the lakes of Central Otago.

Highlights & What to See

• Makarora River & Blue Pools Walk – A short, easy stroll leads to the famous Blue Pools, where the water shimmers with an unreal turquoise hue. Swing on the suspension bridge and spot trout in the crystal-clear depths.
• Young River Swingbridge – A photogenic suspension bridge over the Young River, offering dramatic views of the river canyon and surrounding mountains. A quick stop for a photo or a longer tramp into the wilderness.
• Jet-boating on the Makarora River – Experience a thrilling ride through narrow gorges and braided channels, with expert drivers spinning 360s. Several operators run trips from the Makaroa area.
• Mount Aspiring National Park – The park's northern boundary meets Makarora. Hike the Gillespie Pass Circuit (multi-day) or take a short walk to Fantail Falls or Thunder Creek Falls along the Haast Pass Highway.
• Makarora Tourist Centre – A classic Kiwi roadhouse with a café, gift shop, and a small museum of local history. Grab a coffee and a mince pie – it's a beloved pit stop for travellers.
• Fly-fishing – The Makarora River and its tributaries (like the Wilkin and Young Rivers) are renowned for brown trout. Permits are available locally.

Suggested Time to Spend

Makarora is best treated as a brief stopover rather than a destination in itself. Spend 1–2 hours to walk to the Blue Pools and grab a bite at the tourist centre. If you're keen on a jet-boat ride or a longer hike, budget a half-day. Most travellers pass through on the drive between Wanaka and the West Coast, so it works perfectly as a lunch or leg-stretch break.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka – 50 minutes south, this lakeside town offers stunning scenery, the famous Wanaka Tree, and excellent dining and hiking options.
• Haast Pass & Haast – The drive over the pass is spectacular, with waterfalls and rainforest walks. Haast village is the gateway to the West Coast's wild beaches and glaciers.
• Mount Aspiring National Park – The park's main access points are from Makarora (for the northern routes) and from Wanaka (for the Matukituki Valley). Combine a trip to Rob Roy Glacier or the Routeburn Track.
• Lake Hawea – A quieter alternative to Wanaka, just 20 minutes south of Makarora. Great for fishing, kayaking, and peaceful lake views.
• Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers – A 2.5-hour drive west via Haast Pass takes you to these iconic glaciers. Perfect for a multi-day itinerary linking the West Coast glaciers with the lakes of Otago.

Please check official sources for current details.