Less than 3 hours drive from Christchurch and a similar distance from Dunedin, nestled in the heart of the Mackenzie country is the scenic town of Twizel. Founded in 1968 as a ‘hydro’ town, Twizel today has a resident population of around 1300 and is a popular family holiday location. Holiday makers can triple this number, especially during the summer months.

Located on the Southern Scenic Route between Christchurch and Queenstown, Twizel is the closest town to Aoraki Mt Cook, and is a 40 minute drive from thelake resort town of Tekapo. Wanaka is a 1 ½ hour drive through the scenic Lindis Pass.

Popular for some of the best salmon and trout fishing in the country the region produces many trophy fish while the surrounding canals and lakes provide the perfect environment for the thriving salmon farming industry.

On the Alps to Ocean cycle trail, Twizelis the ideal stop after the first leg from Mt Cook village, and before heading off towards Omarama.

Lake Ruataniwha is a nationally renowned rowing course, bi-annually hosting the Secondary Schools Maadi Cup, amongst a number of other competitive rowing events. This lake is also one of the most popular recreational lakes in the area.

Nearby Ohau skifield is a popular destination on the winter months, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes from its family friendly ski lifts and groomed slopes.

The Mackenzie area boasts one of the world's cleanest, driest and darkest skies. This has long drawn astronomers to Twizel and the surrounding area, with observatories at Lake Tekapo,  Omarama, Twizel and at Mount Cook Village. Since 2012, Twizel has been a part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark-Sky Reserve, one of only five such reserves in the world recognised by the International Dark-Sky Association.

There are several airfields close to Twizel, offering flights into the scenic Southern Alps.

Other activities enjoyed in the area are Bi-plane and Helicopter fights, Cycle tours, Lord of the Rings tours, and Salmon Farm experiences.

Twizel is well served with cafes, restaurants and bars, and the two local supermarkets offer a wide selection of grocery items and produce.