Welcome Rock: A Hidden Gem of New Zealand's High Country
Discover the beauty and adventure of Welcome Rock, where cycling, hiking, and New Zealand's history converge amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Welcome Rock is a captivating tourist attraction nestled in New Zealand's stunning High Country, offering a unique blend of cycling, hiking, and historical exploration amidst breathtaking landscapes.
A brief summary to Welcome Rock - Meet the High Country
- Historic Southland Ski Hut Garston, Garston, 9793, NZ
- +64274067334
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and capture stunning sunrise views.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to fully enjoy the diverse terrain and ensure comfort during your adventures.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the High Country.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes and unique historical features throughout Welcome Rock.
- Consider staying overnight in a farmstay for a deeper connection to the land and its history.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving, begin your journey in Invercargill. Head north on State Highway 1 (SH1) towards Gore. Continue on SH1 for approximately 60 km until you reach the town of Gore. In Gore, take the exit for State Highway 94 (SH94) towards Te Anau. Follow SH94 for about 42 km until you reach the small township of Garston. As you enter Garston, look for signs indicating 'Welcome Rock - Meet the High Country'. Turn onto the gravel road leading to the Historic Southland Ski Hut, where the destination is located. Please note that the last part of the road may be unsealed, so drive carefully.
-
Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take a bus from Invercargill to Gore. The bus service is provided by InterCity or local operators, and you can check schedules online. Once in Gore, you will need to take a taxi to reach Garston, as public transport options are limited in this area. Expect to pay around NZD 50-70 for the taxi fare from Gore to Garston. After arriving in Garston, follow local signage or ask locals for directions to Welcome Rock - Meet the High Country, as it is a well-known local attraction.
-
Bicycle
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy a scenic ride from Invercargill to Garston. Start on the Southern Scenic Route, which you can access from Invercargill. The journey is approximately 80 km and will take you through beautiful Southland landscapes. Ensure you have a good map or GPS device, as you will need to navigate through several rural roads. Upon reaching Garston, follow the local signs or ask for directions to the Historic Southland Ski Hut, the location of Welcome Rock - Meet the High Country.
Discover more about Welcome Rock - Meet the High Country
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Beech Hut
27.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Beech Hut, a charming mountain cabin in New Zealand's Eyre Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Heritage Queenstown
46.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Heritage Queenstown, a luxurious hotel offering stunning lake views and a gateway to adventure in New Zealand.
The Bathhouse
47.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of stunning views and exquisite dining at The Bathhouse, Queenstown's premier restaurant and bar.
Basket of Cones
47.2 km
Explore the Basket of Cones, a historical landmark in Queenstown, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage.
Artbay Gallery
47.2 km
Discover the artistry of New Zealand at Artbay Gallery, where contemporary creativity meets breathtaking views in Queenstown.
Nomads Queenstown Hostel
47.3 km
Discover adventure and camaraderie at Nomads Queenstown Hostel, your gateway to exploring New Zealand's stunning landscapes and thrilling activities.
Million Dollar Queenstown Cruise
47.3 km
Explore Queenstown's stunning landscapes and wildlife on the Million Dollar Cruise, an unforgettable boat tour experience on Lake Wakatipu.
The Bunker Restaurant
47.3 km
Discover The Bunker Restaurant in Queenstown, where exquisite cuisine meets a cozy atmosphere, perfect for an unforgettable dining experience.
Cookie Time
47.3 km
Experience the sweetest side of Queenstown at Cookie Time, where fresh cookies, chocolates, and a cozy café atmosphere await you.
SKYCITY Queenstown Casino
47.4 km
Unleash your inner thrill-seeker at SKYCITY Queenstown Casino, where gaming meets stunning mountain views and vibrant nightlife.
DF Souvenirs
47.4 km
Shop unique New Zealand gifts and memorabilia at DF Souvenirs in Queenstown, where every treasure tells a story.
Shotover Canyon Swing
47.4 km
Discover the ultimate thrill at Shotover Canyon Swing, New Zealand's highest swing, where adventure meets stunning landscapes in Queenstown.
Pure Milford Queenstown
47.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Milford Sound and Queenstown with Pure Milford, your gateway to unforgettable adventure tours in New Zealand.
Nomad Safaris
47.4 km
Experience the adventure of a lifetime at Nomad Safaris, Queenstown's premier tour operator offering breathtaking landscapes and thrilling activities.
NZONE Skydive Queenstown
47.4 km
Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with NZONE Skydive in Queenstown, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable freefall adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Garston Hunny Shop
5.2 km
Explore the sweet world of Garston Hunny Shop, New Zealand's charming honey farm, and savor the taste of local honey creations.
Xtreme Off Road
11.1 km
Experience the thrill of off-road racing at Xtreme Off Road in Kingston, New Zealand, where adventure and stunning landscapes collide.
Devil's Staircase Lookout Point
23.1 km
Experience the stunning vistas of Lake Wakatipu at Devil's Staircase Lookout Point, a scenic gem in Kingston, New Zealand.
Kopuwai / The Obelisk
38.8 km
Explore the natural beauty and historical significance of Kopuwai, The Obelisk, in Fruitlands - a breathtaking sightseeing experience.
Cecil Peak
39.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cecil Peak, a stunning mountain summit in New Zealand offering incredible views and unforgettable hiking experiences.
Walter Peak Farm
41.2 km
Experience the beauty of New Zealand at Walter Peak Farm, where stunning landscapes meet delightful farm adventures.
Walter Peak Station Wharf
41.3 km
Explore the stunning Walter Peak Station Wharf, a historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a unique glimpse into New Zealand's pastoral heritage.
Jack’s point hiking parking
41.3 km
Discover nature's beauty at Jack's Point Track, a premier hiking area in Otago, New Zealand, offering stunning views and an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Jack's Point Track
41.4 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene beauty of Jack's Point Track, a top hiking destination near Queenstown, New Zealand.
Lake Wakatipu
43.7 km
Experience the captivating allure of Lake Wakatipu, a stunning destination nestled in Otago, New Zealand, where adventure meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Mitchell's Cottage
44.1 km
Explore Mitchell's Cottage in Alexandra, New Zealand – a charming tourist attraction rich in family history and surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Curvey Basin Ski Lift
44.7 km
Discover the exhilarating slopes and breathtaking views at Curvey Basin Ski Lift, the perfect winter getaway for adventure seekers and families.
The Remarkables Ski Area
44.7 km
Experience the thrill of winter sports and breathtaking views at The Remarkables Ski Area in Queenstown.
Jack’s Point Track (from Jardine Park)
45.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Jack’s Point Track in Queenstown, NZ, a scenic hiking trail with stunning views and rich biodiversity.
Jardine Park
45.6 km
Discover the tranquility of Jardine Park in Queenstown, a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation with stunning views.
Essential places to dine
Lokal Kitchen & Bar
46.9 km
Experience exquisite New Zealand flavors at Lokal Kitchen & Bar - your go-to spot for delicious pizzas and European cuisine in Queenstown.
Nest Kitchen + Bar
46.9 km
Discover Nest Kitchen + Bar in Queenstown: where stunning views meet exceptional local cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience.
Mackenzies Restaurant & Bar
46.9 km
Discover exquisite New Zealand cuisine with stunning views at Mackenzies Restaurant & Bar in Queenstown's scenic Fernhill.
The Observatory Restaurant
47.1 km
Savor exquisite dishes with stunning views at The Observatory Restaurant in Queenstown - a must-visit for food lovers.
Botswana Butchery
47.2 km
Experience unparalleled steak excellence at Botswana Butchery—Queenstown's premier fine dining destination offering breathtaking views and gourmet cuisine.
Lombardi Restaurant
47.2 km
Experience exquisite New Zealand cuisine at Lombardi Restaurant in Queenstown - where local flavors meet stunning views.
Blue Kanu
47.2 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Asian and Polynesian cuisine at Blue Kanu in Queenstown - a culinary adventure awaits!
Yonder
47.2 km
Discover Yonder in Queenstown - where culinary creativity meets vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable meals.
The World Bar
47.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at The World Bar in Queenstown with delicious burgers, craft drinks, and live music entertainment.
Eichardt's Grille
47.2 km
Discover Eichardt's Grille: A premier dining destination in Queenstown offering exquisite cuisine and stunning lake views.
No5 Church Lane
47.2 km
Experience exquisite dining at No5 Church Lane - Queenstown's premier restaurant featuring delicious tapas and an extensive wine selection.
odd saint
47.2 km
Discover Odd Saint: A unique restaurant blending local flavors with innovative cuisine in the heart of Queenstown.
Pier
47.2 km
Savor fresh seafood and breathtaking lake views at The Pier in Queenstown – where every meal is an unforgettable experience.
Eichardt's Bar
47.2 km
Experience the exquisite flavors of tapas and cocktails at Eichardt's Bar in Queenstown—where elegance meets breathtaking lake views.
Saigon Kingdom Vietnamese Restaurant
47.2 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors at Saigon Kingdom in Queenstown - where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vesta Design
47.2 km
Discover unique local crafts and souvenirs at Vesta Design, Queenstown's charming gift shop along the scenic Marine Parade.
Flora Fauna
47.3 km
Discover the essence of Queenstown at Flora Fauna, where local artistry and natural beauty meet in a captivating gift shop and art gallery.
Aotea Gifts Queenstown
47.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Aotea Gifts Queenstown, your premier gift shop for New Zealand-made products.
Bound Books & Records
47.3 km
Discover the charm of Bound Books & Records in Queenstown, where literature, art, and music converge for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Alpha Gifts 三和
47.3 km
Discover unique New Zealand treasures at Alpha Gifts, your go-to souvenir store in the heart of Queenstown.
Recycle Boutique
47.3 km
Discover unique pre-loved fashion at Recycle Boutique in Queenstown, where sustainability meets style in a charming shopping experience.
Angel Divine Queenstown
47.3 km
Explore Angel Divine Queenstown for exclusive fashion finds that blend style with the stunning beauty of New Zealand's adventure capital.
Seletti Concept Store
47.3 km
Shop the latest trends and timeless styles at the Seletti Concept Store in Queenstown, where fashion meets artistic expression.
Queenstown Mall
47.3 km
Experience the best of shopping, dining, and breathtaking views at Queenstown Mall, the heart of retail in stunning Queenstown, New Zealand.
Decode Queenstown
47.3 km
Discover unique fashion pieces at Decode Queenstown, where style meets adventure in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Aotea Gifts - The Mall
47.3 km
Explore Aotea Gifts in Queenstown for unique souvenirs and local treasures, from clothing to chocolates, reflecting New Zealand's rich culture.
Glassons
47.3 km
Discover the latest fashion at Glassons in Queenstown, where style meets adventure in New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Remarkable Gifts
47.3 km
Discover one-of-a-kind souvenirs and local crafts at Remarkable Gifts, your go-to shop for unique mementos in Queenstown, New Zealand.
Mary’s Sheep Souvenirs
47.4 km
Discover the charm of New Zealand at Mary’s Sheep Souvenirs, where you can find unique sheep-themed gifts and memorabilia in the heart of Queenstown.
Storm
47.4 km
Discover the latest fashion trends at Storm, Queenstown's stylish clothing store offering unique apparel and personalized service in a breathtaking setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Reds Bar
47.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Reds Bar in Queenstown, the perfect spot to unwind after your adventures.
Atlas Beer Cafe
47.2 km
Discover the best local brews and delightful bites at Atlas Beer Cafe, the heart of Queenstown's vibrant pub scene.
Little Blackwood
47.3 km
Discover Little Blackwood, Queenstown's premier cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks and a lively atmosphere, perfect for any occasion.
Pub on Wharf
47.3 km
Discover the lively Pub on Wharf in Queenstown, where delicious food, local brews, and live music create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Perky's - Floating Bar Queenstown
47.3 km
Discover the charm of Perky's Floating Bar in Queenstown, where stunning lake views and refreshing drinks create the perfect getaway.
Zephyr
47.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zephyr, Queenstown's premier bar with lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Rodd & Gunn The Lodge, Queenstown
47.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of style and comfort at Rodd & Gunn The Lodge in Queenstown, offering exquisite dining and a vibrant bar scene.
Bardeaux
47.3 km
Discover the charm of Bardeaux, a cozy bar in Queenstown offering an exquisite selection of wines and whiskeys in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Sundeck Rooftop Bar
47.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite cocktails at The Sundeck Rooftop Bar, the ultimate sky-high retreat in Queenstown.
Cowboy's Queenstown
47.3 km
Discover Cowboy's Queenstown – a lively bar offering unique cocktails and a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Queenstown.
Surreal Bar & Restaurant
47.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and delicious culinary offerings at Surreal Bar & Restaurant in Queenstown, New Zealand, where every visit is an unforgettable experience.
Habana Boutique Rum Bar
47.3 km
Discover Habana Boutique Rum Bar in Queenstown, where exquisite rum cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Upstairs @ The Bunker
47.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Queenstown at Upstairs @ The Bunker, where cocktails, ambiance, and style converge for an unforgettable experience.
Little Mez
47.4 km
Discover Little Mez in Queenstown: A vibrant bar with eclectic drinks and a unique atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after your adventures in New Zealand.
Pig & Whistle Pub
47.4 km
Discover the heart of Queenstown at Pig & Whistle Pub, where British charm meets local flavor in a lively atmosphere.
