Omarama

Omarama is a small town in the Mackenzie Basin of inland Canterbury, located at the junction of State Highways 8 and 83, approximately 60 km south-west of Twizel. The name Omarama means "place of light" in Māori, referring to the region's clear skies.

Omarama is world-famous for gliding (soaring) due to the unique thermal and ridge lift conditions created by the surrounding mountains. It hosts the Omarama Gliding Club and attracts glider pilots from around the world. The town is also a popular stop for travellers on the route between Christchurch and Queenstown.

By Plane

The nearest major airports are Queenstown Airport (ZQN), approximately 185 km south-west, and Christchurch Airport (CHC), approximately 240 km north-east.

By Car / Road

Omarama is on State Highway 8, about a 2.5-hour drive from Christchurch and a 2-hour drive from Queenstown. Bus services on the Christchurch–Queenstown route stop in Omarama.

The town is small and walkable. A car is essential for exploring the surrounding Mackenzie Basin.

Omarama Clay Cliffs — Dramatic geological formations 10 km north of Omarama, with steep pinnacles and gullies.

Lake Benmore — A large hydroelectric lake 15 km south, popular for water sports and fishing.

Ahuriri River — A braided river flowing through the valley, popular for salmon and trout fishing.

Omarama Gliding Club — Watch gliders take off and land at the local airfield.

Go gliding at the Omarama Gliding Club — tandem scenic flights are available for visitors with no experience. Fish the Ahuriri River and Lake Benmore for salmon and trout. Mountain bike on the Ahuriri River trails. Hike in the Ahuriri Conservation Park. Stargaze under the dark skies of the Mackenzie Basin.

The Omarama Avenue Cafe and the local pub serve classic New Zealand fare including pies, sandwiches, and cooked meals. The nearby Clay Cliffs Vineyard offers food and wine.

The Omarama pub serves beer and wine. Local cafes offer coffee and tea. The Clay Cliffs Vineyard produces Central Otago-style wines.

Omarama has motels, a holiday park, and bed-and-breakfast accommodation. The Omarama Top 10 Holiday Park is a popular option for campervans and tents.

Omarama has a general store and a service station for basic supplies. A wider selection is available in Twizel, 60 km north.

• Twizel — 60 km north, service town for Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
• Lake Tekapo — 100 km north, turquoise lake and the Church of the Good Shepherd
• Wānaka — 100 km south-west, lakefront town and ski resort
• Lindis Pass — scenic alpine pass on the road to Queenstown
• Oamaru — 130 km east, Victorian architecture and blue penguins