“On a Mish” #448 An introduction to Awesomeness (Part Two). Mararoa River. Mavora Lakes Park. Southland. 5.2.2026. There is something so simple and yet so very special about a night out camping. Surrounded by the soothing effects of nature, it brings you a calm like nothing else and once enjoyed you will want to repeat. Although I go on many missions by myself (or with Georgie), I do enjoy the company of others, and there is nothing I enjoy more than giving them an introduction to awesomeness…
While the wind rolled over the fields of the Mavora Lakes Camping Ground we sat sheltered in our spectacular spot shielded by some beech trees. It was the perfect place to watch the world go by, have a mountain meal, and eventually enjoy the magical colours of a Mavora sunset. The evening had gone perfectly, and Vivek was having an excellent first experience at a place I am very fond of.
After dinner we went for a cruise around the ground to take in the views and see how many like-minded others were out taking in the epicness. We were a little surprised about how many had forgone the safety and comfort of shelter in order to get a lakeside camping spot. It seemed a little silly when there are plenty of sheltered places that are only a quick walk of drive away from the lake. I guess their pictures will look better with the lake involved.
After checking out the grounds we returned to camp and began to think about retreating to the warmth of our sleeping bags in our tents. Georgie got to a point when she had had enough adventure for one day, so she put herself to bed in my tent and went to sleep dreaming about chasing rabbits.
Early-ish the next morning we were up enjoying another magical Mavora sunrise, which was an incredible way to start the day, and a real reminder of how awesome camping in Mavora / the wilderness really is. Apart from some wind, Vivek had experienced Mavora at its best and I’m sure it will be an experience he will not forget.
Due to work commitments we had to pack up and leave just after breakfast. It was hard to leave the area, but it is always reassuring knowing that this place is less than an hour’s drive from my home in Te Anau. With all of our gear packed away we went for one last drive around before hitting the old dusty trail back to the highway to Te Anau.
Overall the mish was a fine success and before returning home we were already chatting about future adventures to other just as epic spots. It is always great getting another person hooked on the wilderness and spending time amongst it, this was the perfect introduction to awesomeness, and the Mavora Lakes Park was the perfect place to do it!
