Lake Tekapo Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Lake Tekapo with this comprehensive tour guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to eat and stay in this beautiful region of New Zealand.


Introduction to Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is an idyllic glacial lake located in Mackenzie Country, Canterbury, on the South Island of New Zealand, in Oceania. The lake is situated within the boundaries of the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, nestled between the Southern Alps and the Two Thumb Range. The turquoise-blue waters of the lake, the snow-capped peaks, and the pristine air make Lake Tekapo a popular destination among tourists, hikers, and stargazers alike.

List of Places to Visit in Lake Tekapo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Church of the Good Shepherd: This tiny, iconic church, located on the shore of Lake Tekapo, is a must-see attraction. Built-in 1935, the stone church offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The church has a beautiful altar window that overlooks the lake, and it is a popular spot for weddings.
  • Mt. John Observatory: Situated atop a hill overlooking Lake Tekapo, the Mt. John Observatory is one of the world’s premier observatories for viewing the southern sky. Visitors can take a guided tour of the observatory and learn about the latest discoveries in astronomy.
  • Tekapo Springs: Located on the shores of Lake Tekapo, the Tekapo Springs offers a range of activities, including hot pools, ice skating, and tubing. The thermal hot pools offer a relaxing experience, while the ice skating and tubing provide a fun and exciting adventure for families.

Natural Attractions of Lake Tekapo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount John Summit Track: This is a popular hiking trail that offers fantastic panoramic views of Lake Tekapo, the Southern Alps, and the Mackenzie Country. The trail is about 6km long, and the summit offers an altitude of 1,031 meters above sea level.
  • Lake Tekapo Regional Park: This beautiful park covers an area of 165 hectares of reserves, walking tracks, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The park offers stunning views of the lake, and it is a great place for relaxing walks and picnics.
  • The Dark Sky Project: This unique experience takes visitors on an immersive journey to discover the wonders of the universe. The facility offers guided tours, stargazing experiences, and virtual reality journeys to explore the cosmic landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lake Tekapo

  • Lake Tekapo Trek: This is an easy 2-hour walk that takes visitors around the lake and offers views of the Southern Alps, the Mackenzie Basin, and the Church of the Good Shepherd.
  • Glenrock Track: This moderate 3-hour hike starts from the Tekapo Springs and leads to the summit of Mount John. The track offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Lake Tekapo, and the Southern Alps.
  • Roundhill Ski Area: This ski resort offers a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Southern Alps, the Mackenzie Basin, and the Tasman Glacier.

Best Things to Do in Lake Tekapo: Activities and Tours

  • Tekapo Star Gazing: This unique experience takes visitors on a journey to explore the wonders of the Southern Sky, guided by expert astronomers. The tour includes a visit to the observatory and a chance to view the stars through high-powered telescopes.
  • Tekapo Jet: This is an exhilarating experience that takes visitors on a high-speed jet boat ride on Lake Tekapo. The tour offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the mountains and glaciers.
  • Tekapo Springs Day Spa: This spa offers a range of relaxing treatments, including hot stone massages, facials, and body scrubs. Visitors can enjoy the thermal hot pools and the stunning views of the lake and mountains.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lake Tekapo

Day Activity
Day 1 Church of the Good Shepherd Tour
Day 2 Glenrock Track Hiking
Day 3 Roundhill Ski Resort - Hiking and Biking
Day 4 Tekapo Star Gazing Tour
Day 5 Lake Tekapo Trek
Day 6 Tekapo Springs - Hot Springs and Spa Day
Day 7 Mount John Observatory Tour

Food and Drink Scene of Lake Tekapo

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lamb Shank: This New Zealand classic is a must-try when visiting Lake Tekapo. The lamb shank is cooked to perfection and served with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
  • Pavlova: This iconic dessert is a must-try when in Lake Tekapo. The pavlova is a meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Local Beverages

  • Pinot Noir: This popular New Zealand wine is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor and is a great pairing with lamb dishes.
  • Beer: New Zealand is known for its craft beers, and Lake Tekapo has a variety of boutique beer options for visitors to try.

Where to Stay in Lake Tekapo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Peppers Bluewater Resort: This luxury resort offers stunning views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. The resort features spacious rooms, an outdoor heated pool, and an on-site restaurant.
  • Lake Tekapo Motels and Holiday Park: This budget-friendly option offers a range of accommodations, including cabins, motels, and campgrounds. The park has a playground and a BBQ area for guests to enjoy.
  • The Godley Hotel: This boutique hotel is situated in the heart of Lake Tekapo and offers comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant.

What to Buy in Lake Tekapo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Merino Wool Products: New Zealand is renowned for its high-quality merino wool, and visitors to Lake Tekapo can purchase a variety of wool products, including sweaters, scarves, and blankets.
  • Honey Products: New Zealand is known for its unique manuka honey, and Lake Tekapo has a range of honey products, including honeycomb, lip balm, and body lotions.

Local Culture and Customs of Lake Tekapo

  • Respect for the Environment: New Zealanders have a deep respect for the environment and the natural beauty of their country. Visitors to Lake Tekapo should follow the local customs of Leave No Trace principles, and take care not to harm the flora and fauna.
  • Māori Culture: The Māori are the indigenous people of New Zealand, and their culture is an important part of the country’s heritage. Visitors to Lake Tekapo can learn about Māori traditions and customs at the Tekapo Cultural Centre.

Best Time to Visit Lake Tekapo

The best time to visit Lake Tekapo is in the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm and sunny. The summer months also offer longer daylight hours, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities. The spring and autumn months (September to November and March to May) offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a good time for hiking and outdoor activities. The winter months (June to August) offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lake Tekapo

Do:

  • Do follow the Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment.
  • Do pack appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Don’t harm the flora and fauna of the area.
  • Don’t litter or leave trash behind.
  • Don’t forget to carry sun protection, as the sun can be intense.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lake Tekapo

  • Visitors should be aware of the changing weather conditions and always check the weather forecast before heading out.
  • Visitors should be cautious when hiking and ensure they have appropriate gear.
  • Visitors should avoid swimming in the lake unless they are experienced swimmers, as the water can be cold and currents can be strong.

Health in Lake Tekapo

  • Visitors traveling to Lake Tekapo from overseas should be up-to-date with routine vaccinations.
  • Visitors should bring any necessary medications with them, as medical facilities in the area can be limited.

Getting to Lake Tekapo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lake Tekapo

  • Christchurch International Airport (CHC): located 227 km away, is the nearest international airport.
  • Dunedin International Airport (DUD): located 278 km away.

Bus Stations Near Lake Tekapo

  • Intercity: operates a daily bus service to Lake Tekapo from Christchurch.
  • Atomic Shuttles: offers a daily service from Christchurch and Queenstown to Lake Tekapo.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car from the airports or nearby cities like Christchurch and Dunedin.
  • Private Transfer: Private transfers are also available from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Lake Tekapo

Visitors can get around Lake Tekapo by renting a car, taking a taxi, or using public transportation. The area is easily navigable by car, and there are several car rental options available at the airports. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive. The local bus service offers a convenient and affordable option for visitors who prefer not to rent a car.

Where to Go Next from Lake Tekapo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lake Tekapo is located in the heart of the Mackenzie Country, offering easy access to other popular destinations in the area, including:

  • Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park: Located just an hour’s drive from Lake Tekapo, the national park offers excellent hiking and mountaineering opportunities, as well as stunning views of New Zealand’s highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook.
  • Mount John Observatory: Located in Mackenzie Country, the observatory is a popular destination for stargazers and offers guided tours and viewing opportunities.
  • Twizel: This small town is located 42 km north of Lake Tekapo and has several attractions, including the Hydro Canal and the Ben Ohau mountain range.

Conclusion

Lake Tekapo is an enchanting destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of New Zealand. With its stunning lake, snow-capped mountains, and array of outdoor activities, Lake Tekapo is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Zealand. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your experience in Lake Tekapo.

Lake Tekapo Lake Tekapo Church of the Good Shepherd Church of the Good Shepherd View toward the north end of Lake Tekapo from the top of Mt. John View toward the north end of Lake Tekapo from the top of Mt. John