Mackenzie Country

Mackenzie Country is named for a 19th century Scottish sheep herder (and maybe sheep rustler) -- it occupies a high plateau in the center of South Island and is the site of beautiful lakes and spectacular views of the Southern Alps, including Mt. Cook. On a four-day trip from Christchurch to Dunedin, we detoured into the interior, leaving Route 1 just after crossing the Rangitata (near Geraldine), visiting Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki, and returning to Route 1 near Oamaru. On the return trip, we reversed this route, hoping for better weather. The weather was not very cooperative either day -- in particular, Mt. Cook was shrouded in mist -- but we still enjoyed the drives from coast to mountains and back, as well as the lake views.

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Lake Tekapo, as seen from the Church of the Good Shepherd --

Several views of the Church of the Good Shepherd -- the church itself was closed during both of our visits. On a clear day, the picture window at the back of the church gives worshipers a view of Mt. Cook across the lake.

Monument to the high country sheep dog -- without whom presumably there would not be a New Zealand as we know it.

The ever-present fantail ...

Lake Pukaki and its environs ...