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Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd for its beautiful architecture and panoramic views of the lake and mountains. Take a stargazing tour, as Lake Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Hike to the summit of Mt. John for breathtaking views, or enjoy kayaking on the crystal-clear waters of the lake.
Nestled between the renowned tourist cities of Christchurch and Queenstown on New Zealand's South Island, in the heart of the Mount Cook Basin and the MacKenzie Mountains, the enchanting Lake Tekapo is surrounded by trees bathed in golden sunlight and a backdrop of snow-capped mountains stretching as far as the eye can see.
Tekapo is a glacial lake that was washed out from the glacier. The lake water carries many extremely fine particles, which refract light under the sunlight, thus forming such stunning colors.
In season, Lake Tekapo and the smaller nearby Lakes Alexandrina, McGregor, and Conway are great places to fish for brown and rainbow trout. In winter, Tekapo is packed with skiers.
Best in spring and autumn
Hanmer Springs
The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa is located in the heart of town, adjacent to the Hanmer Springs Visitor Information Center. This large thermal complex features 15 pools of varying temperatures, including sulphur pools, geothermal mineral pools, rock pools, and clear water pools. Adjacent to the hot springs is a large water recreation area, featuring a lazy river, water slides, and a "super bowl"—perfect for children.
free
Lake Tekapo is a significant location in New Zealand, known for its stunning natural beauty and clear skies. The lake was formed by glacial activity and is surrounded by the Southern Alps. It is famous for its vibrant turquoise water, due to fine particles of rock flour suspended in the water. It is also a key destination for stargazing, as part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
Lake Tekapo is located in the South Island of New Zealand, approximately 3 hours from Christchurch by car. It is accessible via the state highway, and there are shuttle services and buses that run from nearby towns like Christchurch and Queenstown. Taxis and car rentals are also available for easier access.
Lake Tekapo is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the summer months (December to February), when the weather is warmer and ideal for outdoor activities. For stargazing, winter (May to August) provides the clearest skies, but it can be cold, so bring appropriate clothing.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Lake Tekapo or its surrounding areas. However, some attractions such as the Church of the Good Shepherd or guided stargazing tours may have entrance or participation fees. Tickets for tours can be bought online or directly at the visitor center.
Booking in advance is recommended for stargazing tours, especially during peak seasons. Booking a few days to a week ahead is ideal. For general sightseeing, no advance booking is necessary.
Plan for 1-2 days to fully explore Lake Tekapo. A day can cover the key attractions, including the Church of the Good Shepherd, Mt. John Summit, and the Tekapo Springs. If you want to explore surrounding hiking trails or do a stargazing tour, allow extra time.
The must-see highlights include the Church of the Good Shepherd, Mt. John for panoramic views, the Tekapo Springs, and the nearby hot pools. If you are visiting at night, the stargazing experience in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is a must-do.
Guided tours are available for stargazing, hiking, and other activities around Lake Tekapo. These tours are typically available in English, but some providers may offer tours in other languages upon request. Audio guides are also available for some local sites, including the Church of the Good Shepherd.
The best photography spots include the Church of the Good Shepherd with the lake and mountains in the background, the summit of Mt. John, and the stargazing areas around the lake. Sunrise and sunset provide particularly stunning views.
Start with a visit to the Church of the Good Shepherd, then head to Mt. John for a hike or take a drive to the summit for panoramic views. In the afternoon, relax at the Tekapo Springs or go kayaking on the lake. End the day with a stargazing tour or visit the nearby observatory.
Night visits are a popular option, especially for stargazing, as Lake Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. There are also night tours available, offering the chance to observe the Southern Hemisphere's stars through telescopes. There are no light shows, but the clear skies make for a stunning natural light display.
Lake Tekapo can get crowded during peak seasons (summer and holidays), especially around popular spots like the Church of the Good Shepherd. The least crowded times are during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) or on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late evening.
Facilities around Lake Tekapo include toilets, cafes, restaurants, and small shops. There are also rest areas near popular spots, such as the Church of the Good Shepherd and Mt. John. Drinking water is available in most public areas.
Lake Tekapo is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with paved paths and rest areas at key sites. However, some hiking trails, especially on Mt. John, may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It is recommended to check in advance about accessibility at specific attractions or tours.
Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted in Lake Tekapo, including at restaurants, cafes, and shops. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, particularly for smaller services or remote areas.
There are several restaurants and cafes around Lake Tekapo, offering a variety of food from casual dining to more upscale options. Some popular spots include the Tekapo Tavern and the Lakeside Café, both of which offer great views of the lake.
Many restaurants in Lake Tekapo offer vegetarian and vegan options, and some may have halal-friendly meals. It’s recommended to check the menus in advance or ask at the restaurant for specific dietary needs.
Accommodation options in Lake Tekapo range from luxury hotels and lodges to budget-friendly motels and holiday parks. Popular options include the Tekapo Village Motel, Peppers Bluewater Resort, and Lake Tekapo Hotel, all offering stunning views of the lake.
Nearby attractions include the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, which offers spectacular hiking trails and views of New Zealand’s highest peak. You can also visit the Mount Cook Observatory or take a scenic flight over the Southern Alps.
Souvenir shops are available in Lake Tekapo, offering items like local crafts, wool products, artwork, and star-gazing themed souvenirs, such as telescopes and glow-in-the-dark items.
The best transportation options for continuing your trip are by car or bus. Rental cars are available in Tekapo and nearby towns, and bus services connect Lake Tekapo to Christchurch, Queenstown, and other major destinations in the South Island.
