Exploring the Makarora River Valley
Located at the north end of Lake Wānaka, the Makarora Valley is a stunning area shaped by the Makarora River. As you travel along State Highway 6, the valley's dramatic landscape unfolds, with mountains rising steeply and often capped with snow in winter. The river begins wide and braided at the southern end, gradually narrowing as it flows northward through the valley and into the Makarora Gorge.
Key Stopping Points Along the River
The Makarora River offers several scenic spots perfect for a pause. Cameron Flat Campsite, Blue Pools, and Davis Flat are particularly noteworthy, each providing impressive views of the river and the surrounding valley. This area is also the starting point for the historic Bridle Track, which leads to Haast Pass and offers insights into the region's history.
Gateway Through the Southern Alps
The Makarora River and its valley have long been significant travel routes. Ngāi Tahu iwi traditionally used these paths to cross Haast Pass (Tioripatea) in search of pounamu (greenstone) on the West Coast. In the 19th century, European explorers, including Julius von Haast, followed these Māori trails to map the region and find routes through the Southern Alps. The river served as a natural corridor, providing relatively easy access to Haast Pass, although the journey beyond was more challenging due to the deep gorge and waterfalls on the Haast River at the Gates of Haast.
How to Get There
To visit the Makarora River Valley, take State Highway 6 from Lake Wānaka if you're coming from the south, or from Haast in South Westland if approaching from the north.
Along the way, you can also explore nearby attractions such as Wilson Creek, Topsy Falls, Diana Falls, Fantail Falls, Thunder Creek Falls, and Roaring Billy Falls.
