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South Island

Start: Aotea Gifts, Lake Tekapo
Location: Lake Tekapo
Travel Time: 3 hours

Braemar Station Backcountry Tour: A Scenic High Country Escape

Departing from Lake Tekapo, the Braemar Station Backcountry Tour leads you through the rugged beauty of New Zealand’s Mackenzie Basin. Set against the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, Braemar Station spans 4100 hectares of wide-open terrain framed by the Gammack Range. You'll journey across tall tussock grasslands and glacially carved landforms, including spectacular lateral moraines unique to this high country environment.

While the tour doesn’t travel to Mount Cook, it offers some of the clearest views of the peak from a distance—perfect for your camera lens. Learn about the station’s long-standing sheep farming heritage, with the Mackenzie family managing the land since 1969. It’s an unforgettable slice of Kiwi countryside, ideal for those keen to explore authentic backcountry landscapes.

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Discover New Zealand's Unique Intermontane Landscapes

This off-the-beaten-track tour showcases the natural drama of the Mackenzie Basin, one of the most geologically diverse regions in Aotearoa. As you traverse the terrain, expect panoramic views of the Southern Alps, Lake Pukaki, and the striking Ben Ohau Range. The light and colours of the high country shift throughout the day, creating an ever-changing backdrop of natural beauty.

The journey takes you through remote valleys and tussock-filled basins that few get to see. Starting from Lake Tekapo, it’s a scenic escape into a world shaped by ancient glaciers and time-worn winds. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or curious explorer, this backcountry experience leaves a lasting impression.

TOUR INCLUSIONS

  • Driver
  • Educational Tour
  • Light Refreshment
  • Light Snack

NOT INCLUDED

  • Meals
  • Souvenirs

TOUR INFORMATION

  • Departure: AOTEA GIFTS | Tekapo Township
  • Departure Time: 9:00 AM
  • Minimum of 2 People
  • Dress Code: Casual, Comfortable, Stable Footwear, Warm Jacket, Hat, Sunglasses, Camera
  • Availability: October – May

Tour Note: There will be opportunities for photos and breathtaking vistas to enjoy. Light walking to close proximity viewpoints for photos, so stable footwear is recommended.

AGE INFORMATION

  • Adult: 17 years +
  • Child: 16 years and under

CANCELLATION AND REFUND POLICY

  • More than 24 hours before departure: Full Refund.**
  • Within 24 hours of the tour starting: No refund

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

*Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

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