Lake Tekapo

Picturesque by day and dazzling by night

The name Tekapo derives from Maori words Taka (sleeping mat) and Po (night)

In the centre of the South Island of New Zealand lies Lake Tekapo. This highland lake and settlement at 710 metres (2300 feet) is in the heart of the Mackenzie District and surrounded by a vast basin of golden tussock grass. The name Tekapo derives from Maori words Taka (sleeping mat) and Po (night). Finely ground rock in the glacial melted waters give Lake Tekapo a beautifully unique turquoise color.

Summer or winter, snow-covered or golden-yellow, the surrounding mountains and turquoise lake make a spectacular backdrop for the Church of the Good Shepherd.

Reputation for clear & clean air

The unforgettable night sky reveals why Lake Tekapo has a reputation for clear, clean air. Lake Tekapo is situated midway between the International Airport in Christchurch, and New Zealand’s largest winter and summer playground, the Southern Lakes District, which includes the towns of Wanaka and Queenstown.

Direct access to Tekapo can be had from State Highway 8 which connects Christchurch to Queenstown. Bus services link Lake Tekapo to all the main centres of Christchurch, Timaru, Oamaru, Dunedin, Wanaka and Queenstown.

Mt John

The views from the top of Mount John are simply unbeatable for alpine landscapes during the day, and for unrivalled scenes of the wide open dark starry skies at night.

While the sun is out, take in the stunning 360-degree views from the Mount John Summit Track. This walkway starts at Tekapo Springs and takes one and a half hours to reach the summit. Alternatively, the drive is 15 minutes from Lake Tekapo Village use the access road during cafe opening hours – please note there is a $5 fee for road access payable at the base of Mount John. Another popular option is to drive to the top of Mount John and walk the Summit Circuit Track (30 – 45 minutes).

Things you can do at Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo offers a wide range of world-class recreational pursuits and a unique mix of activities throughout the year. It’s all here, whether it’s tramping, mountain biking, climbing, horse trekking, fishing, hunting, boating, kayaking, scenic flights, star-gazing, skiing, heli-skiing, ski touring, cross-country skiing, ice skating, water-skiing, windsurfing or simply soaking up the spectacular vistas.

Several artists work at Tekapo, testifying to the scenic splendours of the area. The evening light on bare hills, revealing interesting contours and shades, makes for a painter’s or photographer’s paradise. Several mountain bike trails are available, and walking tracks of all difficulty abound, offering truly breathtaking vistas along the way. One of the most popular trails leads to the summit and restaurant on Mt John. The 360 degree panoramic views are breathtaking. The south-eastern corner of Lake Tekapo has been designated a ‘passive area’, where quiet forms of water recreation are encouraged. This area is popular for swimming and young families coming to grips with boating skills. The new Regional Park encloses the water front and offers wonderful running and cycling opportunities.

Biking and cycling
Watersport, kayaking and rowing
Scenic flights
Star-gazing
Mountain trekking and hiking
Horse trekking

HOW TO GET TO Lake Tekapo

Get directions here

Finding more activities?

Offering a wide range of recreational pursuits and a unique mix of activities throughout the year, Lake Tekapo is the dream destination for all the family. Set in the heart of Mackenzie Country, come and see New Zealand at it's best, the way it's meant to be seen.

What to do at Lake Tekapo

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