About Us

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Lakeland Explorer is a locally-owned and operated business based in Twizel, New Zealand.

We are a small team of locals who love this beautiful part of New Zealand. For us it’s less about work and more about fun, and sharing our love of the outdoors with others.

For Lakeland Explorer’s owner-operator Jill, it is truly about the client’s great experience. Following a career as a professional guide, Tourism Industry Assessor and outdoor instructor, Jill has been helping visitors to the Mackenzie Region and cyclists on the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail for 11 years.

At Lakeland Explorer, our friendly service and local knowledge helps you make the most of your visit.

Our boutique approach ensures you enjoy the best experience, tailored to your interests and preferences.

We have the world’s most beautiful playground.

The Mackenzie Region is a fabulous and unique part of New Zealand with many attractions and activities. Dramatic landscapes day and night. Spectacular scenery with snow-capped mountains, turquoise waters, golden tussock lands, big skies, clear air and light.

There is plenty here to satisfy a wide range of interests and exploring. A rich history of explorers, settlers, hydro power, industry, farming, conservation, sports and tourism. Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, Westland World Heritage Park, Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, Te Araroa NZ Walking Trail. It’s all here and more.

Visit or stay at Mt Cook Village, Tekapo, Fairlie and Twizel townships. Venture further afield via Waitaki Valley, North Otago, Central Otago and Canterbury.

Learn more about our spectacular region. ›

We support small, local businesses.

Lakeland Explorer is proud to be a member of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail Collective.

The Collective brings together small businesses offering services along the length of the A2O Trail corridor. These businesses represent the best of Kiwi life and hospitality – friendly locals welcoming and assisting visitors to the Mackenzie and Waitaki regions.

While you’re in the Twizel area, visit some of our wonderful local partners:

Mackenzie Country Hotel

Cnr Ostler & Wairepo Road, Twizel 7901

+64 (0) 3 435 0869

The Musterers Hut Cafe & Giftshop

20 Ruataniwha Road, Twizel 7901

+64 (0) 3 435 0241

Southern Alps Outdoors

8 Market Place, Twizel 7901

+64 (0) 3 435 0002

Lakeland Explorer is a proud member of…

Alps 2 Ocean Official Partner and Sponsor

Established in 2012, the Alps 2 Ocean Official Partner Programme recognises that the physical cycle trail is only one part of the overall product that will attract cyclists to the Mackenzie and Waitaki Districts.

In addition to a high-quality trail, cyclists … expect a high level of customer service and appreciate a warm welcome.

Qualmark Silver-Rated Visitor Activity

A Silver Award is evidence of a sophisticated tourism business that consistently exceeds visitor expectations.

Proactive leadership and management ensure that a culture of high performance is evident throughout the entire business.

The Tiaki Promise: Care for New Zealand

New Zealand is precious, and everyone who lives and travels here has a responsibility to look after it.

The Tiaki Promise is a commitment to care for New Zealand, for now and for future generations.

Qualmark-Endorsed Covid Clean Approved

By completing the COVID Clean Approved assessment, operators can demonstrate to visitors and staff that they have an awareness of COVID-19 government guidelines.

Additionally, COVID Clean Approved is formally recognised by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

Let’s be social.  🙂