Kimbell

Kimbell combines a horse experience that requires booking with local art and historic places. When looking for a hotel, you can consider whether Silverstream Clydesdales, local history or a culinary stop will shape your stay. These different themes give you concrete points of reference for considering Kimbell as a destination.

Silverstream Clydesdales in Kimbell

Silverstream Clydesdales offers a weather-independent activity for all ages and abilities; booking is required. The family-run heritage experience with gentle horses lasts 60 to 90 minutes. The experience includes harnessing the horses, pulling a sleigh and a riding demonstration. The duration gives you a concrete timeframe for planning. Booking and operating conditions can change, so check the latest information when planning the activity.

Silverstream Clydesdales also hires out horses for special events, weddings, marriage proposals and photo shoots. If you would like to include one of these options in your plans, enquire about availability directly. This helps distinguish the general heritage experience from the offerings for a special occasion.

Art and historic places

Walnut Cottage is a Category 2 Historic Place at 760 Fairlie-Tekapo Road in Kimbell. Other historic places include Cottage A at 565 Fairlie-Tekapo Road (State Highway 8) and Cottage B2 at 25 Perambulator Lane; both are listed in the Mackenzie District Council's Historic Heritage Appendix. Stone Shed is also listed there, including the stables, bunkhouse and cookhouse, at 110 Three Springs Road.

The names and addresses point to different historic listings: in addition to individual cottages, there is Stone Shed and its named buildings. Silverstream Gallery is also in Kimbell and is a destination for local art. Alongside local history, art and the horse experience therefore offer different themes to choose from when planning your trip.

Local flavours on State Highway 8

Silverstream Hotel Kimbell is located on State Highway 8 in Kimbell. Kimbell Burgers are served in the pub or beer garden, and craft beer is available on tap. If you plan a culinary stop, bear in mind that food and drink offerings can change, and check the latest details.

In the wider Mackenzie District destination

The wider Mackenzie District destination also has its own cultural, historic and landscape themes. The Church of the Good Shepherd opened in 1935, was the first church built in the Mackenzie Basin, and is a Category 1 Historic Place. Takapō Regional Park stretches across 165 hectares on the eastern shore of Lake Tekapo, also known as Takapō. It has 24 kilometres of cycling and walking trails as well as a dog park.

The Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail passes through Twizel and is divided into nine sections. Its alternative route from Takapō, also known as Lake Tekapo, to Twizel crosses the Pūkaki Flats before reaching Twizel. In Twizel, the circular route around the town is accessible year-round; the Twizel River Trail has picnic areas and swimming spots by the river. Lake Ruataniwha is used for sailing, canoeing and windsurfing. Its shallow water also makes it a family favourite for swimming and relaxation.

Discover more destinations: Fairlie, Mt Cook, Burkes Pass, Lake Tekapo, Twizel, Albury

Back to the wider travel guide: Mackenzie District.