Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( 03-435 3124; adult/child $20/10; 9.30am & 4.30pm late Oct-Apr)
The rare kaki (black
stilt) is found only in NZ, and a breeding program is aiming to increase the population at
the Ahuriri Conservation Park. It's possible to get a close-up look at these elusive birds
by booking a one-hour guided tour through the information centre. Tours depart from the
centre, but you'll need your own transport.
OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
RUATANIWHA
CONSERVATION PARK
Taking in a large chunk of the space between Lake Pukaki and Lake Ohau, this 368
sq km protected area includes the Ben Ohau Range and various valleys and beech
forests. The numerous walks in this vast expanse are detailed in DOC's Ruataniwha
Conservation Parkpamphlet (available online). There are also five good mountain-
bike tracks.
DOC huts and camping areas are scattered throughout the park, but for a more
$101-180, d $107-205)
, idyllically sited on the western shore of the rower-friendly
lake. Accommodation includes everything from budget rooms with shared facilit-
ies, to upmarket rooms with decks and mountain views. The lodge is the winter-
time service centre for the Ohau Ski Field (
Click here
). In summer it's a quieter re-
treat. DB&B packages are available.
Tours
OneRing Tours
TOUR
( 0800 213 868;
www.lordoftheringstour.com
)
How often do you get the opportunity to
charge around like a mad thing weilding replica
LOTR
gear? Not often enough! Tours
head onto the sheep station used for the location of the Battle of the Pelennor Fields and
include lots of information about the filming. Choose between a two-hour version (adult/
child $84/45), a truncated one-hour option (adult/child $64/35) and an adults-only twi-
light tour, enjoying beer, wine and nibbles as the sun sets over Gondor ($115).
Helicopter Line
SCENIC FLIGHTS
( 03-435 0370;
www.helicopter.co.nz
;
Pukaki Airport, Harry Wigley Dr)
Flight options include
the hour-long Aoraki/Mt Cook Discovery ($640), the 45-minute Southern Alps Experien-
