Town

Get to Know the Town of ... Twizel

The Twizel shops on an overcast day.

Purpose built in the 1960s to house workers involved in the Upper Waitaki Power Scheme, these days Twizel is a hub for all outdoor pursuits. Located oh-so-close to Aoraki / Mt Cook National park and the Mackenzie basin, this hydro-town is the perfect base for an array of adventures. 


With the Southern Alps as the backdrop to all activities beginning at Twizel, it’s hard to come by more picturesque scenery. Imagine biking on trails with New Zealand’s tallest snow capped mountain top in full view along the way, plus passing by crystal clear lakes and colourful fields of lupins – doesn’t sound too bad does it? Or perhaps you’d like to hop on board a helicopter and get the adrenaline rushing by experiencing heli-skiing or glacier viewing; or maybe fishing is your passion, in which case you’ll be glad to know that you’ve come to the right place: Twizel’s rivers, lakes and canals are filled with salmon and trout waiting to be caught.


On top of all the amazing outdoor adventure opportunities around here, as the largest town in the Mackenzie region, Twizel boasts a lively village atmosphere filled with interesting eateries. Want to begin your day with a perfect cup of coffee and delicious breakfast? End the day with a drink and live music? Forgot to bring a holiday read with you? You’ll find it all here, along with a full range of services to support your visit and make the best of discovering all that Twizel has to offer.

Towns