Whether you want to ski, admire the native bird life or enjoy some of the most celebrated walking trails in New Zealand, Arthur’s Pass is a great choice for your holidays.
Ski Temple Basin
This is skiing as nature intended. It’s not for the faint-hearted or the posers, mind you. There is no road access so be prepared for a 40-60 minute hike to the ski field. It’s well worth it, especially if you stay a night or two on the mountain.
Alpine walks
There are so many walking tracks in the area suitable for all abilities. Two of the easier, but no less rewarding tracks are the walks to the Devil’s Punchbowl and the Bridal Veil waterfalls.
Arthur’s Pass panoramic
Moa spotting at the Bealey Hotel
Even though Moa have been extinct for a while, the previous owner of the Bealey Hotel, Paddy Freaney, was adamant to have spotted the large bird back in 1993, while out tramping. If you want to go ‘Moa spotting’ there are many hikes in the area. Or, if you are more of an armchair spotter, settle in at the hotel bar and enjoy the view from this very scenic spot.
Check out the local Kea population
If you aren’t up for a walk into their more natural bush habitat, you can spot Kea in Arthur’s Pass village or at the Otira viaduct look out. These cheeky mountain parrots are very entertaining but make sure you hold onto your valuables!
Check out the native Kea population while in the area
Arthur’s Pass Chapel
The lovely township is home to a multi-denominational chapel where you can take a moment and admire the beautiful mountain scenery from its large window above the altar.
Otira Viaduct
The view is incredible. Not just of the natural beauty of the area but also the feat of modern engineering that is the Otira Viaduct. Driving the Otira Gorge used to be a hair raising experience pre-viaduct with many rockfalls, brake failures and sickie stops occurring on the route. Now you have a smooth ride to the West Coast.
