Explore the charming town of Lake Tekapo, home to iconic attractions and picture-perfect views.
Lake Tekapo is a breathtaking destination in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island. Known for its stunning turquoise waters, this picturesque lake is surrounded by majestic mountains and conveniently located near some of the region’s most famous attractions, including Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and Lake Pūkaki. The small village of Lake Tekapo, with a population of just 500, is home to the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and offers world-class stargazing opportunities.
Lake Tekapo is dazzling by day, but equally spectacular after sunset. The region is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky reserve, New Zealand’s largest dark sky reserve. The Dark Sky Project(opens in new window) offers a range of tours, including the option to visit New Zealand’s only professional research observatory, where you can view the night sky through their state-of-the-art 14” telescopes. Additionally, their daytime Dark Sky Experience tour brings the universe to live, blending Māori astronomy with science.
Tekapo Star Gazing(opens in new window) offers a unique experience combining guided stargazing with a relaxing soak in hot pools. The tour starts with an engaging astronomy lesson and concludes with a dip in the Tekapo Springs hot pools, allowing you to gaze at the universe while lying on an underwater hammock. Insider tip: Peak stargazing is in winter when the skies are at their clearest.
The Church of the Good Shepherd is one of the South Island’s most iconic landmarks. Constructed in 1935 to honour the early pioneers, it was built using local stone to compliment the surrounding landscape. This historic church remains an active place of worship and a beloved tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the globe to admire its simple elegance and lakeside views. This is a working church, so please be respectful if a service or wedding is in progress. Please take all litter with you.
With Tekapo Adventures(opens in new window) you’ll see a slice of the Mackenzie district that’s usually not open to the public. Offering both 4WD and hiking tours, Tekapo Adventures provides exclusive access to these stations, some of which are as large as Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city. Here, you’ll find some the country’s finest merino sheep, along with some of its most spectacular alpine scenery, featuring lengthy braided rivers and enormous mountain peaks crowned with glaciers.
Mackenzie Helicopters(opens in new window) offers extraordinary flight experiences from their base in Lake Tekapo. This family-owned business provides a range of services, including scenic flights, private charters, and backcountry adventures like heli-skiing and hunting.
Taking inspiration from its sister restaurants in Los Angeles, Bangkok, and Huntington Beach, 25 Degre(opens in new window)es serves simple burgers with massive flavour. Also, look out for their loaded hot dogs, creamy milkshakes, and stacked pancakes.
TLV restaurant and bar(opens in new window) describes their food as “semi fine,” which should not be taken literally. What they mean is, their menu is a bit fancy without being pretentious. Think slow-cooked lamb with pea barley rice, asparagus and red wine jus, or harissa-crumbed salmon with creamy sweet corn and pineapple salsa.
Jack Rabbit(opens in new window) café(opens in new window) prides itself on quality coffee, great food, and fantastic views of Lake Tekapo. They also serve a wonderful range of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
With options cater to suit every budget, Lakes Edge Holiday Park & Lakes Edge Lodge(opens in new window) offers camping facilities, self-contained units, cabins and family-friendly holiday homes. Along with priceless views of Lake Tekapo.
Two words: book now!(opens in new window) Nestled into a hillside, this former ‘House of the Year’ offers uninterrupted views of golden plains stretching to the foot of Mt Stevenson and the Southern Alps. Designed by Dalman Architects, the chic concrete bungalow makes a strong statement and blends seamlessly into the landscape.
The new Grand Suites Tekapo(opens in new window) offers 28 luxury self-contained suites overlooking Lake Tekapo.
From Queenstown Airport it is an awe-inspiring three-hour drive, weaving through the Kawarau Gorge to Lindis Pass and, finally, the snowy peaks that have made this region famous. Alternatively, consider the scenic route from Christchurch, which is a three-to-four-hour drive through Canterbury’s rural heartland to the foot of the Southern Alps. Here, you can explore famed beauty spots like Arthur’s Pass, Castle Hill, and Mt Hutt.
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