Merino Downs

Merino Downs is in the heart of New Zealand’s high country – the Mackenzie Basin Region – halfway between Christchurch and Queenstown on State Highway 8. This Central South Island location has a rugged, idyllic serenity that is difficult to experience in the more urbanised tourist destinations. Unlike nearby mountain destinations, the quaint, small Kiwi-town feel has survived in the Mackenzie, amid large-scale high country runs. The landscape is full of untouched horizons so epic they have been the backdrop for stories like The Lord of the Rings. Under the wide-open skies, family memories are made that will be shared through the generations. This is a place to simply – and fully – enjoy the outdoors.