Top Attractions on New Zealand‘s Highway 711

New Zealand's Highway 7 is a scenic route that traverses the South Island from west to east. It offers a diverse range of landscapes, from towering mountains to tranquil lakes and rugged coastline. If you are planning a road trip along Highway 7, be sure to stop and explore some of the following attractions.

Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the West Coast. This massive glacier descends from the Southern Alps and ends just a few kilometers from the Tasman Sea. There are several ways to experience Franz Josef Glacier, including guided walks, helicopter tours, and skydiving. Visitors can also take a short walk to the nearby Franz Josef Glacier Lookout for stunning views of the glacier and surrounding mountains.

Fox Glacier

Fox Glacier is another popular glacier on the West Coast, located just a short drive from Franz Josef Glacier. It is smaller than Franz Josef Glacier, but equally beautiful. Visitors can take a guided walk to the glacier's terminal face or book a helicopter tour for a bird's-eye view. Fox Glacier is also a great place to go hiking, with several trails that lead to waterfalls and scenic lookouts.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a stunningly beautiful lake located in the heart of the Southern Alps. The lake is known for its turquoise waters, which are caused by the presence of suspended glacial flour. Lake Tekapo is also a great place to stargaze, as it has some of the darkest skies in the world. Visitors can stay at the nearby Mount John Observatory for the best views of the night sky.

Lake Pukaki

Lake Pukaki is another beautiful lake located in the Southern Alps, just a short drive from Lake Tekapo. The lake is known for its azure waters, which are caused by the reflection of the nearby Mount Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand. Lake Pukaki is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can also take a scenic drive along the lake's shore.

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is home to some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in New Zealand. The park is dominated by Mount Cook, which is the highest mountain in the country. Visitors can hike to the summit of Mount Cook, or take a helicopter tour for a breathtaking view. Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is also a great place to go skiing and snowboarding in the winter.

Twizel

Twizel is a small town located on the shores of Lake Pukaki. The town is a popular base for exploring the Mackenzie Basin and Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. Twizel is also home to the Earth & Sky Visitor Centre, which offers interactive exhibits on astronomy and the night sky.

Omarama

Omarama is a small town located on the Lindis Pass, a mountain pass that connects the Mackenzie Basin to Central Otago. The town is known for its merino sheep farming and its beautiful scenery. Omarama is also a popular spot for gliding and paragliding. Visitors can take a scenic flight to experience the stunning views of the Lindis Pass and the surrounding mountains.

Ranfurly

Ranfurly is a small town located in Central Otago. The town is known for its gold mining history and its beautiful Victorian architecture. Ranfurly is a great place to stop for a bite to eat or to explore the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also visit the Ranfurly Museum, which tells the story of the town's gold mining past.

Cromwell

Cromwell is a small town located on the banks of the Clutha River. The town is known for its fruit growing and its beautiful scenery. Cromwell is a great place to stop for a swim or to enjoy a leisurely walk along the river. Visitors can also visit the Cromwell Fruit Bowl, which offers a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Clyde

Clyde is a small town located on the banks of the Clutha River, just a short drive from Cromwell. The town is known for its historic gold mining past and its beautiful scenery. Clyde is a great place to stop for a bite to eat or to explore the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also visit the Clyde Dam, which is one of the largest dams in New Zealand.

2024-12-28

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