Ben Ohau

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Top 10 attractions in Ben Ohau

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Lake Pukaki
No. 14 of Night Attractions in New Zealand

Lake Pukaki

6.3
4.2/5
149 reviews
Lake Pukaki is nestled among the mountains of the Canterbury region and is a large lake in the northern Mackenzie Basin that flows from north to south. When ancient glaciers retreated, moraine deposits blocked the river valley, forming a dammed lake, making it a typical moraine-dammed lake. Fine rock flour ground by glaciers over the years remains suspended in the water, scattering light into a rich milky blue and turquoise color, resembling a whole lake of poured, rich milk, which is how it earned the nickname "Blue Milk Lake." The lake surface is at an altitude of over 500 m, and the lake water mainly comes from the meltwater of the Tasman Glacier and Hooker Glacier. Looking north, you can see the continuous snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps. On clear days, standing at the viewing point on the southern shore, you can capture both the snow-capped peaks and the lake in your camera lens.Ben Ohau · 19.4 km from downtown
Mt Cook Alpine Salmon Shop
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Pukaki

Mt Cook Alpine Salmon Shop

5.3
5.0/5
13 reviews
Mt Cook Alpine Salmon Shop is a convenient gourmet stop on the self-drive route from Lake Tekapo to Aoraki / Mount Cook on the South Island of New Zealand. Most salmon on the market is saltwater-farmed, but the King salmon here are raised in glacial meltwater. The fish are farmed in the alpine waterways connecting Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, and Lake Benmore, where the water is cold, fast-flowing, and high in oxygen, resulting in exceptionally firm and fresh meat that makes for a memorable meal for many travelers. They sell sashimi, sushi, smoked salmon, and more. You can take home whole fresh fish to prepare yourself, and they also sell salmon-themed souvenirs. Ordering a portion of sashimi and enjoying it by the lake is a popular choice for many.Pukaki · 7.6 km from Ben Ohau
Mount John
No. 12 of Night Attractions in New Zealand

Mount John

6.5
4.8/5
101 reviews
Mount John is the commanding height of the town of Lake Tekapo. From the top of the mountain, you can overlook the panoramic view of Lake Tekapo and the town. There is a famous star-gazing point MtJohnUniversityObservatory on the top of the mountain, and you can experience the world-famous starry sky of Tekapo at night.Tekapo · 42.3 km from Ben Ohau
Lake Tekapo
No. 1 of Spring Outings in New Zealand

Lake Tekapo

6.6
4.6/5
343 reviews
Lake Tekapo is located in the Mackenzie Basin in the central part of the South Island of New Zealand. It is a lake formed by glacial meltwater, with a surface altitude of approx. 700 m and an area of approx. 80 sq km. The lake water displays a distinct turquoise color, making it stand out in the alpine scenery of the South Island. This unique color comes from fine rock flour ground by glaciers: as glaciers move slowly, they grind rock layers into extremely fine particles, which flow into the lake with the meltwater and remain suspended for a long time. Under sunlight, the water color shifts between milky blue and emerald green, changing with the weather and light. The lake is surrounded by the peaks of the Southern Alps and open meadows. Standing on the lakeshore are the stone-built The Church of the Good Shepherd and a bronze statue of a sheepdog, which together with the lake and mountain scenery behind them form a common photo opportunity. Ascending Mount John on one side of the lake area also offers a panoramic view of the intertwined lake and basin. Lake Tekapo is also part of the Waitaki hydroelectric power system—the lake water is diverted for power generation, and the lake level is artificially regulated, rising and falling regularly within a certain range throughout the year. The lake area is far from city lights and has excellent night sky conditions; on clear nights, you can see the clear Milky Way and Southern Hemisphere constellations, and stargazing is a long-standing local experience. From late spring to early summer each year, the lakeshore is covered in patches of lupins, with pink and purple flower belts spreading along the shore; in other seasons, it takes on a simple color palette composed of snow-capped mountains, clear water, and short grass, with the scenery changing with the seasons. Walking, cycling, or boating along the lake are common ways to experience this alpine lake.Tekapo · 51.1 km from Ben Ohau
Milford Sound / Piopiotahi
2026 Global 50 - Cool Water Escapes

Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

7.8
4.6/5
483 reviews
Milford Sound is a world-famous natural wonder, a glacial landform located in the South West Fiordland National Park on the South Island of New Zealand. Steep, jagged cliffs emerge from calm, dark waters, lush rainforest grows on the rock walls, and waterfalls plunge hundreds of meters into the sea. 1. The beautiful road in the world The road from Queenstown to the Fiordland is known as one of the most beautiful roads in the world. Along the way, it passes many scenic spots, such as Mirror Lake, trails, and Homer Tunnel. Many small waterfalls formed by melting snow. 2. Enjoy the scenery of the fjord by cruise ship The water tour of Milford Sound is the main way to enjoy the beauty of the fjord. After the sightseeing boat slowly leaves the pier of Milford Sound, you can see the The Baowen Waterfall is more than 100 meters high. When the wind is strong, the water of the waterfall will splash on the pier. On the opposite side of the waterfall is a small gravel pile called a small cemetery, which is the resting place of the whalers and sealers who lived nearby. Continue to drive forward, and on the left is the towering Matthew Peak, which stands directly on the sea. On the other side are Lion Mountain and Elephant Mountain, with very vivid names. Not far away is Tongjiao, which is the relatively channel of the fjord. When the wind is strong, it passes through the mountains, and the wind is amazing. When the boat comes to the Fairy Falls, the bow of the boat will meet directly below the waterfall, and the water of this waterfall is drinkable. After looking at the Tasman Sea from the boat, the boat will slowly turn around and re-enter the fjord, and a fjord cruise is basically complete. Airplane tours and sea kayaking tours are two other great ways to experience mountains, waterfalls, and sheer cliffs. There are also sightseeing boats with underwater viewing windows, allowing tourists to observe coral reefs and other marine landscapes from the bottom of the water. Dolphins, fjord penguins, seals and other aquatic creatures can also be seen in the fjord, especially in the seal headland where a large number of young seals often gather. 3. One of the filming locations of "The Lord of the Rings" As one of the filming locations of "The Lord of the Rings", it attracts many fans to this place.New Zealand · Milford Sound
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
No. 14 of Spring Outings in New Zealand

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

7
4.4/5
219 reviews
Of all of New Zealand's 27 mountains over 3050m, 22 are in Mount Cook National Park. One of the more spectacular is Mount Cook, which is 3,755 meters high. 1. Experience New Zealand's large glacier up close - a third of the Tasman Glacier Mount Cook National Park is covered with snow or ice all year round. Here, you can experience New Zealand's largest glacier, the Tasman Glacier, up close. Take the bus to the beautiful Tasman Valley, and your guide will lead you on a leisurely half-hour hike to the end lake of the Tasman Glacier. Board a boat here to explore this iceberg lake full of small icebergs and ever-changing. Feel the glacier with your hands as the boat makes its way up close to these little icebergs! If you are a photography enthusiast, this trip will be an unforgettable memory of your trip to New Zealand! 2. Aerial view of magnificent natural beauty by helicopter There is another way to enjoy the magnificent view of Mount Cook - take a helicopter view of this amazing natural beauty from the sky. Here are some professionally operated aerial tour companies that will take you off from GlentannerPark at the base of Mount Cook to see Mount Cook from above and explore the heart of Mount Cook National Park. Professional pilots will enthusiastically share their knowledge of the region with you.Gammack · 72.1 km from Ben Ohau
Glenorchy

Glenorchy

6.9
4.3/5
210 reviews
Glenorchy's Chinese name translates to Glenorchy. Located on the north bank of Lake Wakatipu, just 45 minutes from Queenstown, it is the gateway to many hiking trails and the magical world of Middle-earth. 1. An outdoor lover's paradise This rustic town is a veritable outdoor lover's paradise. Surrounded by native beech forests and towering mountains, Glenorchy's surroundings are never lacking in excitement. Stunning Lake Wakatipu and the Dart River offer plenty of options for jet boating and kayaking, and it's a popular base for New Zealand's many walking trails. Horseback riding is also one of the most popular activities here. 2. The spectacular scenery of Glenorchy, the filming location of "The Lord of the Rings", has made it a filming location for blockbusters. The "Lord of the Rings" trilogy and "The Chronicles of Narnia" have been shot here in large numbers. Twenty kilometers from Glenorchy, as idyllic farmland is gradually replaced by beech forest, we come to the town of Paradise. The origins of the name vary, with some saying it got its name from the natural charm of the place, while others say it got its name from the ducks of paradise that inhabit it. No one can be sure of the origin of its name, but the suffocating natural beauty here has been unanimously recognized by everyone. . "This is the Middle-earth I've always fantasized about," Sir Ian McKellen (Gandalf) said of Paradise.New Zealand · Glenorchy
Wānaka

Wānaka

6.5
4.8/5
119 reviews
Wānaka is backed by the Southern Alps and is a lakeside town that blends refined living, family vacations, and outdoor adventure. Cafes, restaurants, and unique shops in the town center line the lakeshore. Just a few steps away, you can sit by the water and watch the snow-capped mountains reflected in the clear lake. The lone willow tree standing in the lake is an iconic image of the town. The soft light during the morning mist and at sunset are popular times for photography. The town has a deep connection with aviation. You can book sightseeing flights, helicopter tours, or skydiving at the airport to overlook Lake Wānaka and the glacial peaks of Mount Aspiring from the air. The town hosts a biennial airshow featuring classic military aircraft, a traditional local event. During the winter ski season, ski resorts such as Cardrona and Treble Cone are within a 1-hour drive. In spring and summer, the Roy's Peak track attracts many hikers with its panoramic views of Lake Wānaka. It is also a convenient base if you want to venture into Mount Aspiring National Park for hiking or mountaineering.Wanaka · 89.5 km from Ben Ohau
Cardboard Cathedral
No. 6 of Best Things to Do in Christchurch

Cardboard Cathedral

6.6
4.3/5
36 reviews
Cardboard Cathedral is a transitional church built in Christchurch after the 2011 earthquake. Completed in 2013, it was built to replace the old Gothic cathedral in the city center that was severely damaged in the earthquake. It was designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, who is famous for his paper tube architecture and has long used paper tube structures for post-disaster reconstruction around the world. The building itself is worth a close look. It has an overall A-frame shape and stands over 20m tall. The two sloping sides are lined with nearly 100 rigid paper tubes, which have been treated to be waterproof and fire-retardant. The gaps between them allow daylight to gently filter into the interior, and the entrance features a large triangular window made of stained glass. The interior can accommodate about 700 people. Wooden pews and soft lighting make the space quiet and peaceful, and it is also frequently used for concerts and community events.New Zealand · Christchurch
Lake Wānaka
2026 Global 50 - Fall Viewing Attractions

Lake Wānaka

6.2
4.6/5
350 reviews
Lake Wānaka is surrounded by mountains on all sides. It is the fourth-largest lake in New Zealand and the source of the Clutha River, a major river on the South Island. The lake water is crystal clear and blue, with exceptional clarity. On clear days, snow-capped peaks and the blue sky are reflected on the lake's surface. Viewed from above, it looks like a sapphire embedded in the valley. It is a year-round destination: enjoy flowers in spring, swimming in summer, photography in fall, and skiing in winter. You can sit on the pebble-covered beach, look around, and admire the beautiful lake and mountain scenery; you can take a small plane to circle the lake and look down from above at the white of the snow-capped mountains and the deep blue of the lake. The poplar-lined avenue by the lake is renowned, and the rows of trees reflected on the lake's surface are poetic and picturesque. Especially in the golden fall, the yellow leaves by the lake are a stunning sight, with the entire forest painted in golden hues, full of fall charm.Minaret Bay · 82.6 km from Ben Ohau

Experiences you can't miss in Ben Ohau

Featured Day tours in Ben Ohau

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Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch
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4.9/5
· 198 reviews· 60 booked
Duration: 13 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
49 consecutive positive reviews
FromDKK 1,034.93
Queenstown: Mt Cook & Hooker Valley Small Group Day Tour
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4.9/5
· 164 reviews
Duration: 12 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
40 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromDKK 977.84DKK 1,029.31
Aoraki Mount Cook National Park Small-Group Tour from Queenstown
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4.7/5
· 118 reviews
Duration: 12 hrs
Free cancellation
92.4% of travelers recommend
FromDKK 1,058.01
Queenstown round-trip English tour: Lake Pukaki + Mount Cook Park hike
󱌍
4.7/5
· 3 reviews· 32 booked
Duration: 10.5 hrs
English
FromDKK 1,212.97
Queenstown round-trip: Aoraki / Mount Cook helicopter scenic flight (includes one glacier landing) [English tour]
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FromDKK 3,430.11
Christchurch Tekapo Aoraki / Mount Cook 1-day tour | The Church of the Good Shepherd | optional helicopter sightseeing
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FromDKK 886.87
Christchurch to Queenstown scenic tour | Lake Tekapo + Mount Cook
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews· 28 booked
Duration: 9.4 hrs
English
FromDKK 1,499.41

Featured Cultural experiences in Ben Ohau

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Wanaka real guns shooting experience (professional guidance + live ammunition shooting)
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Duration: 2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
FromDKK 795.39
Wanaka shooting range Crossfire Shooting center
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Duration: 1 hr
English
Free cancellation
FromDKK 322.69
Fox Glacier hike + helicopter transfer | reconfirmation required
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FromDKK 4,065.32

Free things to do in Ben Ohau

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What travelers say about Ben Ohau

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旅の径October 26, 2020
4.0
New Zealand has many lakes, most of which are surrounded by mountains, with winding coastlines, clear water and pleasant scenery. It is an excellent tourist destination. Lake Pukaki, located in the central part of the South Island, is worth visiting for its four unique features. First, the lake is rich in rock particles and minerals. Under the sunlight, it reflects a unique blue color, which is dreamy and attractive, and has the reputation of "Blue Milk Lake". Second, the lakeside is the best place to overlook Mount Cook. When the weather is fine, standing on the south bank of Lake Pukaki, the Southern Alps on the north bank 55 kilometers away are clearly visible, and the highest peak is Mount Cook. Third, the lifelike Tahr sheep statue. The Tahr sheep, native to the Himalayas, lives between high mountain cliffs. It is a first-class protected animal in my country and is listed as a "near endangered" animal in the world. In 1904, a British man brought five Tahr sheep to the South Island. Because they had no natural enemies, Tahr sheep thrived in the Cook Range and became the favorite hunting animal for European and American hunters to hunt in New Zealand. In 2014, people erected a handsome and mighty Tahr sheep statue on the shore of Lake Pukaki to commemorate the contributions of relevant people in protecting Tahr sheep worldwide. Taking a photo with the statue is the only choice for all tourists. Fourth, on the south bank of Lake Pukaki, there is a Mount Cook salmon farm. The salmon produced is firm and tender, cheap and good quality. Many food lovers come here to taste and buy.

Lake Pukaki

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哉哉子January 2, 2020
5.0
Located beside the fairy-like Lake Pukaki, it is the freshest, purest and most pollution-free salmon, which is the closest to the quality of wild salmon. 100g is priced at 10 New Zealand dollars, and 500g is 38 New Zealand dollars. You must eat it.

Mt Cook Alpine Salmon Shop

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jing0lingJanuary 22, 2024
5.0
nice place with nice Astro Cafe, Astro cafe opening hour is depends on the weather. if is too windy they will close.

Mount John

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铨上风满楼February 21, 2026
4.0
Located a popular tourist destination a 3.25-hour drive southwest of Christchurch on New Zealand's South Island… the scenery here is breathtaking. The Church of the Good Shepherd is a must-see. If driving from Christchurch to Queenstown, this is a great stopover! It's also perfect for a weekend getaway, with a small hot spring nearby… a good place to unwind after a long drive… and a popular spot for photographers to capture stunning images!

Lake Tekapo

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Anonymous userOctober 1, 2026
5.0
Milford Sound is one of the most iconic natural landscapes on New Zealand's South Island, often hailed as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," and a UNESCO World Heritage Site within Fiordland National Park. The most classic experience here is a boat tour. The boat glides through the dark waters of the fjord, flanked by steep cliffs carved by glaciers. Mettler Peak soars into the clouds, and Bowen and Stirling Falls flow year-round. After rain, countless temporary waterfalls cascade down the cliffs, creating a truly breathtaking spectacle. With luck, you might spot seals basking on the rocks, or even encounter dolphins and Fiordland penguins. Overall, Milford Sound isn't a "check-off" destination; it's best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. The waterfalls are often more spectacular on rainy days, so don't let rain deter you from your trip. If you have ample time, consider departing from Te Anau or opting for an overnight cruise to avoid the daytime crowds and create a more immersive experience.

Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

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赶景August 5, 2026
4.0
The Lin'an Art Museum is located inside the Wu-Yue Cultural Park, which also houses the Lin'an Museum and the Wu-Yue Cultural Museum. The art museum is not large, but it is quite exquisitely decorated, and the surrounding environment is fantastic. You can visit it while you are at the museum.

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

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Claire YoungMarch 21, 2023
5.0
This is known as the place closest to heaven. It is a very simple town. Many scenes are shot here in the movie. There is also a place called paradise. Seeing the vast grassland, rivers, sheep and horses, you can feel comfortable physically and mentally.

Glenorchy

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Jocelyn8July 9, 2023
5.0
I went to a vineyard in Wanaka and the view was beautiful and photos turned out to be great! 🏞

Wānaka

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E04***80December 15, 2025
5.0
To see the cardboard church, it's important to understand its origins and story. When I visited, I happened to encounter a Maori students' choir, and the headmaster gave me a brochure about the church's reconstruction after an earthquake.

Cardboard Cathedral

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Lavender and SunMarch 11, 2022
5.0
Created by giant glaciers 10,000 years ago, Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea sit side by side, separated by a small strip of silvery white land called The Neck. Surrounded by stunning mountains, the two lakes have beautiful pebble beaches and are a popular attraction for locals and tourists, especially during the long, warm summers.

Lake Wānaka

Popular cities near Ben Ohau

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Ben Ohau?

Don't miss these attractions in Ben Ohau: Lake Pukaki, Mt Cook Alpine Salmon Shop, and Mount John. If you like Food & drink, try Wanaka Wine Tours - Boutique Tour. If you enjoy Day tours, try Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch.

You can give Wanaka Wine Tours - Boutique Tour and 'Express' Wine Tour & Māori Culture Wānaka a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch, Queenstown: Mt Cook & Hooker Valley Small Group Day Tour, and Aoraki Mount Cook National Park Small-Group Tour from Queenstown. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of October 18, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Ben Ohau is around DKK 886.87 – DKK 3,430.11. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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Ticket prices may vary between weekdays and weekends, as well as during peak and off-peak seasons. When booking with Trip.com, you can also use Trip Coins to get extra savings. For more tips on booking discounted tickets, please visit Trip.com for the latest information.