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Discover the Wild Beauty of Guide Hill

Experience the magic of Guide Hill — where the vast Mackenzie Basin invites you to walk, explore, and connect with a landscape alive in every season. From here, you’re perfectly placed to discover Aoraki / Mt Cook National Park, the turquoise sweep of Lake Pūkaki, and the many trails, lakes and hidden valleys that make this region unforgettable.

Stargazing

The stars here are unforgettable. In the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the heavens stretch wide and clear — a canopy of countless stars, the Milky Way bright enough to cast a shadow, and at times, the soft glow of the southern lights. It’s where the vastness of the day continues above you — infinite, brilliant and still.

Panoramic view of the Milky Way galaxy arching over dark mountain silhouettes at night.

Hiking

Step out into the landscape and follow your curiosity. A shorter loop trail begins by your lodge, guiding you past storytelling panels that reveal the histories, ecology and natural character of this remarkable place. For those wanting to go further, a guided hike leads across the high terraces to the Te Kōhai / Maryburn Drylands — a vast expanse where native plants, wind and light define the rhythm of the land.

Snow-covered mountain range with a clear blue sky reflected in the still water of a large lake.
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Guide Hill Station features eight lodges, each with three spacious bedrooms and indoor and outdoor living. There’s ample room for everyone in this beautiful contemporary holiday destination, where luxury meets nature.
Maryburn: an ancient landscape
Maryburn: an ancient landscape
Explore one of the Mackenzie Basin’s finest dryland landscapes on a guided hike beyond the station.
Informative short walks
Informative short walks
Discover the stories of the land along the short loop trail that begins right outside your lodge.
Exploring the Mackenzie Basin
Exploring the Mackenzie Basin
Beyond Guide Hill, the Mackenzie Basin opens wide — a landscape of lakes, peaks, and endless skies waiting to be explored. From cycling the Alps to Ocean trail and soaring over glaciers to soaking in alpine hot springs, this region offers experiences as vast and unforgettable as the land itself.
Aurora Australis above Guide Hill Station
Aurora Australis above Guide Hill Station
Stargazing here is unforgettable. In the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the heavens stretch wide and clear — a canopy of countless stars, the Milky Way bright enough to cast a shadow and at times, the soft glow of the southern lights. It’s where the vastness of the day continues above you — infinite, brilliant and still.
Exploring the shores of Lake Pūkaki
Exploring the shores of Lake Pūkaki
Step out into the landscape and follow your curiosity. A shorter loop trail begins by your lodge, guiding you past storytelling panels that reveal the histories, ecology and natural character of this remarkable place. For those wanting to go further, a guided hike leads across the high terraces to the Te Kōhai / Maryburn Drylands — a vast expanse where native plants, wind and light define the rhythm of the land.

Exploring the Mackenzie Basin

Beyond Guide Hill, the Mackenzie Basin opens wide — a landscape of lakes, peaks, and endless skies waiting to be explored. From cycling the Alps to Ocean trail and soaring over glaciers to soaking in alpine hot springs, this region offers experiences as vast and unforgettable as the land itself.

Alps to Ocean Cycleway

Ride through some of Aotearoa’s most spectacular landscapes. The Alps to Ocean Cycleway stretches over 300 km from Aoraki / Mt Cook to the Pacific at Oamaru, tracing the journey from alpine peaks to rolling plains. From Guide Hill, you can experience a taste of the trail — complimentary bikes are available for guests keen to explore its nearby sections.
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Helicopter Flights

Lift off directly from Guide Hill’s private helipad and see the Mackenzie Basin from a whole new perspective. Scenic flights take you over Aoraki / Mt Cook, the Tasman Glacier — New Zealand’s longest — and the sweeping alpine valleys that define this remarkable region. A breathtaking way to experience its scale and beauty.
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Aoraki / Mount Cook Village

Just an hour’s drive from Guide Hill, Aoraki / Mt Cook Village sits at the heart of one of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes. Explore alpine trails, join guided walks, take a 4WD or boat safari on glacial lakes, or simply soak in the presence of Aoraki rising above it all.
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Omarama Hot Tubs

An hour south of Guide Hill lies Omarama, where natural peace meets pure relaxation. Soak in a private, wood-fired hot tub surrounded by mountain views and wide skies — each tub freshly filled for every guest. A perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.
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Tekapo Springs

A short 20-minute drive from Guide Hill brings you to Tekapo Springs, where you can soak in hot pools overlooking the turquoise lake and mountain ranges. With spa treatments, saunas and starlit evening sessions, it’s an easy escape into warmth and light.
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Skiing

In winter, the Mackenzie Basin transforms into a playground of snow and light. Within easy reach of Guide Hill are three uncrowded ski areas — Ōhau Snow Fields (1 hr), Roundhill Ski Area (1 hr), and Mt Dobson (1.5 hrs) — each offering wide runs, big views and a relaxed alpine atmosphere.
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