Explore our Backyard.
While the Hakataramea Valley may be a slight side-step from the path most travelled, this area is abundant in opportunities for fun and adventure.
Short day trips and roundtrips – you don’t have to go far. There is plenty to explore in the wider Waitaki area with hidden gems right on your doorstep
Waitaki Wine tours and tastings.
This growing wine region now boasts more than a dozen vineyards, some producing award-winning internationally acclaimed wines. The complex geology of the Waitakian Limestones giving the local wines a distinctive depth and flavour to be savoured. Enjoy a wine tasting and a delicious platter in the sun at at River T’s vineyard flanked cellar door, or enjoy the rich flavours of Ostler wines over a sumptuous cheese plate at the Vintner's Drop. Guests can enjoy a leisurely afternoon among the vines sampling our local wines and produce.
Hiking and Biking.
We are spoilt for choice when it comes to walking and biking in the Waitaki.
Alps to Ocean Cycleway - Our district boasts 300kms of cycle way that runs from Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak to Oamaru by the coast, passing through some of the country’s most spectacular scenery on the way. The cycle way passes through Kurow, less than 10 minutes drive from your Nest accommodation. This picturesque track is also popular with walkers and runners, who are free to pick and choose which section to start from.
Bike Hire – Guests are able to hire bikes from Kurow, and then enter at their chosen point of the cycleway. One popular option is to bike from Kurow to the River T winery 5 kms away when you can park up for a wine and a nibble before biking back to town. Or to bike in the other direction on the trail to the Waitaki Dam and back (18kms).
Sole to Soul Hiking NZ – Hakataramea locals Sally and Juliet thrive on taking guests on their guided treks throughout the stunning Hakataramea High country. Tours are tailor-made to suit the clients needs and can range from half day or full day adventures. Whether it’s a walk to increase the heart rate, slow the mind, tap the creativity or just to enjoy the amazing outdoors the girls will design an experience that will leave you feeling reconnected to life on every level.
Kurow Hill – For those with energy to burn, this one’s for you. While it may only take around 45 minutes to reach the top of Kurow hill (600 meters above sea level), the track is rather steep. But don’t fear, there are couches and lounges for a breather along the way and those who make it to the top are rewarded with spectacular views of Kurow township, the Waitaki River and Valley below. Access from the end of Grey Street in Kurow.
Star Gazing.
In the heart of the South Island the sky is so clear and vast that millions of stars seem to appear right before your eyes. Our Nest tree house lies in the heart of the Hakataramea Valley, just on the outskirts of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky reserve. This twinkling night sky is celebrated across the globe, with limited light pollution meaning the stars brightly shine amongst the darkness. Whether you are interested in astrophotography or just enjoy spotting shooting stars, a clear night at Nest is an experience you won't forget.
Skiing.
Over the winter months guests can pick from two nearby ski fields Ohau and Roundhill. Both are regarded as high-quality club fields enjoyed by both locals and travelers alike.
On the Water.
Local jet boat tour operators available to take guests for a thrilling ride through the Waitaki waters.
Head out for a fish, in some of our countries most popular fishing spots.
Or in the warmer months take a picnic and go for a dip at Lake Aviemore or Lake Benmore just 20 minutes from Nest.
Oh Dam!
A short drive from Kurow are the spectacular Waitaki, Aviemore and Benmore dams. The first of the dams, the Waitaki was built back in 1934 and is still providing hydro power today. History aside these buildings are truly impressive and worth stopping for a look.
MTB Adventures NZ
Fully guided MTB adventure packages tailored to suit your ability through amazing central South Island countryside. Please contact MTB Adventures for more details including local tracks and package details.
Ready to Explore ?
Enjoy a leisurely drive to the heart of the South Island.
