Things to do while your significant other is out fishing with NZ Trout Adventures

Things to Do in the Mackenzie While Your Partner is Fly Fishing with NZ Trout Adventures

Not every partner is keen to stand in a river waving a fly rod all day — and that’s perfectly okay. Here in the Mackenzie Basin, New Zealand’s ultimate fly fishing destination, there’s so much more than trout to keep you entertained. If your significant other is out fishing with NZ Trout Adventures, you’ll have no trouble filling your day with incredible experiences that are relaxing, inspiring, and uniquely South Island.

Here’s a curated guide to local activities for non-fishing partners, including nature, luxury, food, wildlife, and adventure — all within easy reach of Twizel, Lake Tekapo, Omarama, and Aoraki/Mount Cook.

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🌌 Stargazing and the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis)

The Mackenzie is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve — one of the best stargazing spots on Earth. While your partner is dreaming about trout, you can spend the evening watching constellations, planets, and even the Southern Lights (aurora australis) dance across the sky. Try the Dark Sky Project in Tekapo or simply step outside your accommodation and look up.

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🥾 Hiking: World-Class Trails for All Levels

Breathe in the high country air and stretch your legs on some of the South Island’s most scenic walks:

Hooker Valley Track (Aoraki/Mt Cook): A must-do! Easy 3-hour return walk with swing bridges, glacier views, and the stunning Hooker Lake.

Lake Alexandrina Walkway: A peaceful trail with birdlife and mirror-like reflections.

Twizel River Trail: A local gem, especially during the sockeye salmon spawning run (more below!).

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🚴‍♀️ Cycling Adventures & Bike Hire

Hire an e-bike in Twizel or Tekapo and cruise the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, one of New Zealand’s Great Rides. You’ll glide through epic scenery — turquoise lakes, mountain backdrops, and quiet backroads. It’s a fantastic solo adventure or a relaxing half-day out.

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🏔️ Mt Cook, Glaciers & Scenic Drives

While your partner is fly fishing the local rivers, you can take a short drive to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest peak. Enjoy the Tasman Glacier viewpoint, the Blue Lakes, and some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery anywhere in the world.

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🍸 Gin Tasting with Matt Gunn

Local legend Matt Gunn offers a truly unique high country gin tour — complete with storytelling, boutique spirits, and breathtaking views. You’ll sample small-batch gin in a charming alpine setting. A hidden gem and a great way to meet locals.

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🐟 Sockeye Salmon Spawning Run (Twizel River)

If you're visiting in late summer or early autumn, don’t miss the bright red sockeye salmon run. Watch thousands of salmon make their way upriver to spawn — a spectacular natural phenomenon right in town. It's easy to access and perfect for photos.

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🐟 High Country Salmon Farm

Located on the canal just outside Twizel, High Country Salmon is the perfect place to feed the fish, try sashimi straight from the water, or enjoy a coffee by the water’s edge. Great for families or a relaxing solo visit while the rods are busy.

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🔫 Hunting & Outdoor Pursuits

For those keen on big country adventure, the Mackenzie offers opportunities for guided tahr, deer, and pig hunting. With licensed operators and breathtaking terrain, it's an unforgettable day in the hills — and a good excuse to match your partner’s fishing trip with your own wild pursuit.

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🥏 Disc Golf & Traditional Golf

Twizel Disc Golf Course: Free to play, set in a scenic park with 18 baskets and lots of fun for first-timers.

Ben Ohau Golf Club: A friendly local 9-hole course just out of town with sweeping views of the Southern Alps.

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⚡ Hydro Scheme Tours & History

Twizel exists thanks to one of the largest hydroelectric construction projects in NZ history. Learn about the Waitaki Hydro Scheme and how the man-made canals (now fishing paradises) were carved into the landscape. Great for history buffs or engineering fans.

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💦 Soak & Relax: Hot Springs and Hot Tubs

Tekapo Springs: Hot pools, sauna, ice rink, and day spa overlooking stunning Lake Tekapo.

Hot Tubs Omarama: Private cedar tubs filled with fresh mountain water, with views over golden hills and river flats — bliss after a long walk or bike ride.

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🪨 Whitestone Waitaki Geopark

Take a short trip down the valley to discover the Whitestone Geopark, where ancient geology meets modern culture. From elephant rocks to Māori legends and fossil discoveries, it’s a UNESCO-recognised treasure of the South Island.

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🐧 Blue Penguin Colony – Ōamaru

If you’re up for a slightly longer adventure, head east to Ōamaru, home to the world’s smallest penguins. At dusk, you’ll watch these adorable birds waddle ashore after a day at sea — an unforgettable wildlife encounter.

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Your Adventure, Your Way

While your partner is out sight fishing for world-class trout with Anton, you can create your own unforgettable Mackenzie experience. Whether you’re into luxury, nature, wildlife, or active exploring, this region is far more than just a fishing destination — it’s a place to connect, relax, and fall in love with the South Island lifestyle.

Ready to plan the perfect couple’s getaway — even if only one of you has the rod in hand?

Visit www.nztroutadventures.com to book your guided fly fishing trip and start building a high-country itinerary that works for both of you.