Lake Tekapo is a stunning alpine lake located in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island. Known for its turquoise waters, surrounding mountains, and clear night skies, Lake Tekapo is a popular destination for nature lovers, stargazers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Location
Lake Tekapo is situated in the Mackenzie Basin, approximately 230 km southwest of Christchurch and 250 km northeast of Queenstown in the Canterbury region of New Zealand’s South Island.
Opening Hours
Lake Tekapo is accessible year-round, and most attractions and businesses in the town have daily opening hours. However, some activities and services may have limited hours during the winter months.
Highlights
- Turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, fed by glacial melt
- The iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and sheepdog statue
- Stunning views of the Southern Alps, including Mount Cook (Aoraki)
- Stargazing opportunities in the UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve
- Relaxing hot springs and spa at Tekapo Springs
Activities
- Visiting the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and sheepdog statue
- Stargazing tours and astronomy experiences at the Mount John Observatory
- Relaxing in the hot springs and spa at Tekapo Springs
- Hiking and mountain biking on local trails, such as the Mount John Summit Circuit
- Scenic flights and helicopter tours over the Southern Alps
- Fishing, kayaking, and boating on Lake Tekapo
Admission Fees
There is no admission fee to visit Lake Tekapo or the Church of the Good Shepherd. However, fees apply for activities such as stargazing tours, hot springs entry, scenic flights, and some guided tours.
Facilities
- Lake Tekapo Village, with accommodation, restaurants, and shops
- Tekapo Springs, with hot pools, spa, and winter ice rink
- Lake Tekapo Regional Park, with picnic areas and walking trails
- Public toilets and facilities in the village and at some lakeside areas
- Parking areas in the village and at various attractions
Accessibility
Lake Tekapo Village and some lakeside areas are generally accessible, with paved paths and viewpoints. However, some hiking trails and natural areas may have uneven terrain and limited accessibility. It’s best to check with individual businesses and attractions for specific accessibility information.
How to Get There Lake
Tekapo is accessible by car or bus:
- By car: approximately 3 hours drive from Christchurch or 3 hours drive from Queenstown
- By bus: regular coach services operate from Christchurch, Queenstown, and other major towns
Nearby Attractions
- Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
- The Clay Cliffs in Omarama
- Lindis Pass and the Ahuriri Valley
- Twizel and the High Country Salmon farm
- Fairlie and the Mackenzie Basin
Insider Tips
- Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd at sunrise or sunset for stunning light and fewer crowds
- Book stargazing tours and hot springs sessions in advance, especially during peak season
- Take a scenic drive along the Tekapo Canal, stopping at picnic spots and viewpoints
- Visit in late spring to see the colorful lupins blooming around the lake
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park for more alpine adventures
What Visitors Say
Visitors to Lake Tekapo consistently marvel at the stunning beauty of the lake and its surroundings. Many are captivated by the vibrant turquoise color of the water and the majestic mountain backdrop. Stargazing enthusiasts rave about the clear night skies and the opportunity to explore the cosmos at the Mount John Observatory. Others appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and the range of activities on offer, from relaxing in hot springs to hiking and scenic flights.
For more highlights and tour reviews see real experiences from our guests: The Road Trip Testimonials.
Photos and Videos
For photos and videos of Lake Tekapo, visit the official Lake Tekapo Tourism website: www.laketekaponz.co.nz
Contact Information
Lake Tekapo i-SITE Visitor Information Centre
Phone: +64 3 680 6579
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.laketekaponz.co.nz
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