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Stargazing Twizel Style

Some of the best night sky viewing on the planet is found right here in The MacKenzie.

Around here, the sky is so big that on a clear winters night you *might* need to wear sunglasses. Okay, the stars are not quite that blinding, but anyone who has seen a clear night sky in this part of the world will tell you it's a truly incredible experience. Twizel is part of the 4300 square kilometers that is the Aoraki MacKenzie Dark Sky Reserve. The wide open spaces and very limited light pollution around Twizel will give your eyes the best possible chance of soaking up more stars than you've ever seen before. Keen stargazers will discover constellations that can only be seen from the southern hemisphere, including the iconic Southern Cross, Magellanic Clouds and new depths of the Milky Way. Add a telescope or binoculars and the experience takes on unforgettable dimensions. But even if you've never been interested in astronomy, it's impossible to ignore the billions of stars which arc from horizon to horizon like a huge brush stroke. Avoid the observatory crowds - stargaze from your own backyard. The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve continues to gather worldwide recognition for its viewing clarity and stunning alpine surrounds. This means at certain times of the year, some of the public stargazing locations become very busy. Fortunately, we can offer a much more comfortable alternative to anyone who wants to soak up the night sky. Imagine being able to study the Dark Sky Reserve in your own time, relaxing in a deckchair, wrapped up warm, beverage of choice in hand, surrounded only by your family or friends - all while being just a few steps away from your bed for the night. Sounds pretty good, doesn't it? Make a real night of New Zealand's finest stargazing experience by booking yourself into a Twizel Holiday Home. Ask us about our stargazing properties. Pro Tip: Find a stargazing app to explain what you're seeing in the night sky above your Twizel Holiday Home. We're in the process of finding out which apps are recommended by the International Dark Sky Places organisation - and we'll let you know what we discover.  

Are you looking for Alps to Ocean accommodation? Are you riding in a group? Twizel Holiday Homes can help you keep the group together, share the costs AND enjoy all the added benefits of a well-appointed house.

Why choose Alps to Ocean accommodation from Twizel Holiday Homes?

After a day on the track, we know many riders appreciate having their own kitchen, laundry, and relaxation spaces. That's why we specialise in homes with full facilities. Our properties are an easy walk from shopping, cafe's, restaurants and local attractions in the compact township. Because Twizel is located in the only Dark Sky Reserve in the Southern Hemisphere, there are strict controls on light pollution. As a result, some of our properties offer once in a lifetime views of the night sky. Break the ride. Find the perfect Alps to Ocean accommodation for your group. We're here to help, so please let us know what your group requires. Feel free to contact us via phone or email, or visit our office next to "Cycle Journeys" in Twizel. Discover more at www.twizelholidayhomes.com

Twizel is a handy base for explorations of Mount Cook National Park and the Mackenzie Basin. From mountain climbing to heli-biking, it’s all here. The peaks and trails of Mount Cook National Park are just up the road. You can fish for salmon and trout in the local rivers, canals and lakes. If you don’t have any luck, call into the salmon farm and buy a fish - fresh or smoked. In summer Twizel’s population more than trebles, as holiday houses and camp grounds fill to capacity.

Welcome Summer 2017 /18! This is a time when Twizel really comes alive with all the holidaymakers, boaties, rowers and fishermen. And we just love it! Our holiday homes are being very well received with many families booking the same home year after year. Our homes are ideal for that perfect getaway, should you be a family of 4 right through to larger groups. Check out our availability on our website www.twizleholidayhomes.com. To find out more about “What’s On” in our region, this is a useful link:  www.twizel.info/activities  We are also now on Pinterest and you will also find some interesting boards on what to see and do in our region. Please remember to remain vigilant on our roads and lakes. It’s a busy time of year and we want you returning home safely!      From the Team at Twizel Holiday Homes