Marvel at the magnificent lakes of the Mackenzie District
26 February 2025
Canterbury’s Mackenzie District is home to some of New Zealand’s most famous and photogenic lakes.
Take a trip back in time at Burkes Pass
Burkes Pass is a tiny heritage village in Canterbury’s Mackenzie Region, with a whole heap of character.
Known by Māori as Te Kopi Ōpihi, Burkes Pass was discovered by Europeans in 1855 as an access route to the vast Mackenzie Basin.
Today, the village is brimming with heritage buildings, including St Patrick's Union Church – the oldest union church on its original site in New Zealand – many historic cottages and a dose of vintage Americana.
Take the heritage walk, which combines a kid’s scavenger hunt around the village and explore the area’s unique history. You’ll see historic buildings including the replica red Musterer’s Hut featuring an original fireplace, a livery stable, schoolhouse, stone and cob huts and a blacksmiths.
The village’s former general store is now a gallery filled with vintage collectibles, surrounded by classic cars, a 1950s service station and memorabilia.
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