Vacation rentals in Makarora

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Your guide to Makarora

All About Makarora

With rugged mountains, turquoise lakes and rivers, and sprawling green fields, Makarora is the perfect base for exploring the wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just south of town. Makarora is located on the South Island, in the Wanaka Region, which is known as the Southern Alps of New Zealand and draws visitors from all over the world.

The city is surrounded by the national park’s river valleys of lush rainforest and stunning alpine scenery. Hiking access to the park, including the picturesque Siberia Valley, can be accessed directly from Makarora, and there are also boat and plane charters that can take you further into the park. You can explore countless trails, from easy treks along the Haast Pass Highway to the multi-day Gillespie Pass Circuit. After a long day of hiking, take a dip in one of the crystal clear Blue Pools. Once you’ve had your fill of the park, head back to downtown Makarora to enjoy a strong cup of coffee or tea in one of the local cafes before strolling around the town exploring its boutiques, museums, galleries, and theaters.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Makarora

Makarora’s location in the Southern Hemisphere means that its seasons are opposite from what you might be used to. Generally, the best time to visit are the summer months of December to February, when you’ll experience long days with mild temperatures. Fall and spring bring cool daytime temperatures, which make these great seasons to do some hiking. April brings the exciting mountain bike event, where riders challenge themselves to a long and scenic race. Winter, from June to August, sees dry days with blue skies and cool, but not cold, temperatures. Wanaka offers great skiing and snowboarding less than an hour’s drive from Makarora.


Top things to do in Makarora

Thunder Creek Falls

Thunder Creek Falls is one of the more well-known waterfalls in the Haast River Valley section of Mount Aspiring National Park. They are easy to access via a 10-minute walk that leads to the waterfall’s viewing platform. The falls are fed by melting ice from the glacier and are impressive for their height of nearly 100 feet.

Haast Blue Pools

Found in the Aspiring National Park Otago Region and nestled within a mature beech and podocarp forest, the Haast Blue Pools are a sight to behold. Their stunning bright blue color and deep, clear glacial water make for a surreal combination. You’ll find the pools a short 15-minute walk down a track and over a swing bridge. Although the water is a bit chilly, it’s a gorgeous place for a swim.

Fishing

Some of the best fly fishing in the world can be found in the pristine waterways of the Wanaka region. Fishing is a vital part of Kiwi culture, and the best way to enjoy the stunning scenery is to try fishing for trout and salmon.

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