The pretty farming town of Fairlie marks the beginning of the Mackenzie Country. Just west of here, Burke Pass takes you into the high altitude, tussock-covered expanses that characterise the region.

While you're in town and looking for local non-hunting things to do, a visit to the Fairlie Heritage Museum is recommended. It houses one of the biggest vintage wagon and carriage collections in the country. You may like to follow this up with a carriage ride if you're traveling with a spouse or family around Fairlie township. At lunch time, the locals recommend you try a salmon and bacon pie at the award-winning Lieber Bakehouse.

In winter (June - September), Fairlie is a base for skiing at Mt Dobson (affectionately known as 'Dobo') and Roundhill.

During warmer months, the recently created Lake Opuha is popular for boating and fishing; you can also take a llama trek around the lake. Hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, trout fishing and farm tours are other popular activities.

The Raincliff Historic Reserve is the place to see Maori rock art, and famously scenic Lake Tekapo is just a 25 minute drive away.