21 best things to do in Tekapo, New Zealand

In this guide, I’m going to share the most beautiful places which you cannot miss when looking for the best things to do in Tekapo, New Zealand!

Home to a mesmerising turquoise-blue lake surrounded by the Southern Alps, Tekapo is a township of both simplicity and drama. The scenery is majestic, but tucked alongside the lake’s pebbly shoreline, the town has a population of just 500. Though, of course, this number surges during the high season.d

Since Tekapo is one of the main stops between Christchurch and Queenstown, it’s a popular road trip destination, and for a good reason. While visiting Lake Tekapo, you’ll be treated to excellent views, photogenic historic buildings, relaxing hot springs, great walks, and fun outdoor activities, such as kayaking in Summer and ice skating in Winter.

In the 2.5 years in which I lived in New Zealand, Tekapo was one of my favourite places to visit during my South Island winter road trip. Although it has its fair share of activities and tours, I actually loved just settling in and hanging out by the lake itself. 

You don’t need to do any special planning* to make the most of this spectacular little town – just show up at the shore of the lake, and the stunning scenery does all the hard walk for you. In fact, one of my favourite moments was sitting at a picnic table down by the lake and warming up with a fresh cup of coffee.

(*that said, you should definitely book accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons, alongside any tours you want to do. The town might be small, but it’s a tourist favourite, so you don’t want to miss out on the best hotel options or decent rates.)

About Tekapo

Tekapo is a small township located in the Mackenzie District on New Zealand’s South Island. Tekapo has been inhabited since pre-European times. In 1855, sheep thief James Mackenzie travelled inland, looking for a less well-known route. Two years later, the first sheep farm in Mackenzie was established on the shore of Lake Tekapo. 

The township has always remained small but saw a growth spurt of sorts when hydropower stations were built in the 1940s. However, experts predict that the population will increase over the coming decades.

As for the lake itself, Lake Tekapo is the second-biggest of three lakes within the Mackenzie Basin’s northern edge, alongside Lake Pukaki and Lake Ohau. Due to the glacial silt that remains in the water, which reaches the lake following melted snow from the Southern Alps, Lake Tekapo has its distinctive turquoise glow. 

21 best things to do in Lake Tekapo

During my time exploring the South Island of New Zealand, I had a wonderful time enjoying all the best things to do at Tekapo. I visited Lake Tekapo in Winter, as you can tell by my photos of the region, with beautiful Lake Tekapo covered in a wonderful blanket of icy snow! 

1. The Church of the Good Shepherd

The Church of the Good Shepherd is one of Tekapo’s biggest icons, and you’ll often see it in postcards of the region. Located on the shores of Lake Tekapo, this stone church features a distinctive bell tower that stands out against its beautiful backdrop. 

And while I’m sure this famous Lake Tekapo must-do is stunning all year round, doesn’t The Church of the Good Shepherd look absolutely dreamy when cosied up under a blanket of snow? 

The church was built in 1935 as a memorial to the pioneers of the Mackenzie country out of local stones, which were collected from within 5 miles of the church itself. The quaint church is still an active place of worship, so stay respectful during your visit. Although I’m not a spiritual person, I could still feel the unique connection to this sacred place and its stunning location nestled beside the lake. 

While it looks secluded in real life, the site is actually just a stone’s throw away from the car park! So while it has mountain views behind it… you’ll see cars going past on the other side. It was definitely the busiest place I visited in Tekapo, though I didn’t mind ‘sharing’ such a beautiful spot with other visitors. 

That doesn’t take away from its beauty, mind you, and it shouldn’t put any off visiting. If anything, it’s a bonus that the historic building is in such an accessible place – meaning more people can enjoy it!

If the crowds are a concern, though, head there at sunrise or sunset when day trippers will have likely moved on to their next destination (and you’ll get some brilliant photos, too).

Price: Free

Opening Hours: 9 am – 5 pm (although you can still see the church from outside the fence after hours)

Address: Pioneer Drive, Lake Tekapo 7999

2. Visit Pines Beach

Located on the eastern side of the lake, a visit to Pines Beach is a great way to start off your time at Lake Tekapo sightseeing. You can get up close to the water’s edge, with the snow-capped mountains towering behind it, and it’s easy to walk here from The Church of the Good Shepherd.

If you’re after cheap and free things to do in Lake Tekapo NZ, then exploring the lake itself is a great way to start. 

Price: Free

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Address: Pines Beach, Lake Tekapo 7630

3 Hot Pools at Tekapo Springs

If you’re after the South Island’s best hot springs, then look no further than Tekapo Springs.

You’ll be able to soak up the incredible Tekapo scenery while literally soaking in one of their three picturesque hot pools. There’s also an Aqua Play Area onsite featuring cooler waters.

Continue your day of rejuvenation by booking into the day spa or the traditional sauna and steam rooms alongside a cold plunge pool.

With its superb views and evening stargazing sessions, from where you can learn about the night sky from the peaceful retreat of the hot pools, this has to be one of the most unique and romantic things to do in Tekapo NZ.

And if you’re making a day of it, catch a bite at the Altitude 720 Cafe & Bar, which also has excellent views and a balcony or indoor fire, depending on the season you visit.

Price: There are a range of ticket options available. Check the Tekapo Springs website for details.

Opening Hours: 11 am – 7 pm weekdays, 10 am – 7 pm weekends

Address: Lakeside Drive, Lake Tekapo 7945

4. Lake Alexandrina

Just a 12km drive from the town, visiting this South Island hidden gem is one of the most beautiful activities in Tekapo. I found this stunning spring-fed lake to be just as stunning as Tekapo and Pukaki, their more famous counterparts, so it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Lake Tekapo if you want to escape the crowds. However, Alexandrina is the smallest of these three parallel lakes.

There’s also a basic DOC campground by the side of the lake if you fancy spending the night… or couldn’t find a spot in Tekapo itself! 

If you don’t have time to visit Lake Alexandrina, be sure to look up for it while enjoying the exceptional views at the Mount John summit. 

5. Mount John Observatory Tekapo

Undoubtedly one of New Zealand’s most iconic astronomical sites, anyone with a passion for the night sky – or beautiful views – should make a stop at the Mount John Observatory. 

Situated at an altitude of 1029 meters above sea level, you’re guaranteed a great vantage point over Lake Tekapo, the Mackenzie Basin, and across to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. 

However, despite the excellent 360-degree lookout, the site is actually best known for its night-time scenery. Tekapo is located within a night sky reserve and has excellent views of our neighbouring stars and planets due to the lack of light pollution here.

 The observatory was established in 1965 as part of the University of Canterbury’s Physics and Astronomy Department and has state-of-the-art equipment, including a 16” optical telescope, from which you can enjoy the starry skies during a 2-hour tour. 

Aside from a tour, you can also walk or drive up to enjoy the views before enjoying a bite at the Astro Cafe, which has great barista-made coffee, food, and fab views from the observation deck. 

Price: It’s obviously free to visit the summit itself, but the Dark Sky Experience astronomy tours run from April – September and currently costs $159 for adults, $85 for kids, and $408 – 488 for families (2A, 2C or 2A, 3C)

Opening Hours: 10 am – 5 pm, Friday to Sunday, and 10 am – 2 pm on Mondays

Address: Canterbury, 7999

6. Stargazing in Tekapo’s Dark Sky Reserve 

Aside from the aforementioned Mount John Observatory and beautiful Tekapo Springs, you can stargaze from all around the lake, with Pines Beach and the shores of Lake Alexandria also being popular options.

Located at the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve – one of only four gold-tier reserves in existence – Tekapo is a true paradise for astronomy enthusiasts and budding stargazers alike. With a lack of light pollution providing crystal clear skies (providing you’re blessed with good weather), stargazing is undoubtedly one of the best Lake Tekapo attractions.

However, if you’re in the know about Lake Tekapo photography, you may have already seen endless photos from the township’s most iconic night sky viewing spot – the historic Church of the Good Shepherd. 

If you want to take photos of the night sky in Tekapo, here are a few tips:

• Check the forecast in advance, as you’ll need clear skies to pick up our magical night sky. (And wrap up warm if it’s a cold night – you don’t want your hands to freeze around the camera!)
• Make sure to bring a tripod, as it will help steady your camera and prevent blurry images.
• Use slow shutter speeds so that the camera captures enough light and detail when taking photos of the night sky.

Stargazing is definitely one of the most memorable Lake Tekapo activities.

7. The Sheepdog Memorial

The bronze Sheepdog Memorial and a quirky item to add to your Lake Tekapo to-do list.

The life-sized sheepdog statue honours the working dogs who, along with Scottish shepherds in the 19th century, were a fundamental part of the early days of farming in the high country. These clever canines helped shaped the region’s history, which is why local farmers built the monument in 1968 in appreciation of the collie dogs.

It doesn’t take long to walk up to the statue from the church, so it’s an easy additional stop to add to your Tekapo itinerary.

And it’s also one of the best things to do in Lake Tekapo for dog lovers like me, as it also serves as a fun little reminder of how much human history is partially shaped by the dogs who’ve been there for us along the way. (Awww.)

Price: Free

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Address: Pioneer Drive, Lake Tekapo 7999

8. Hike to the Summit of Mount John

The Mount John Summit Hike is a must-do for anyone visiting Lake Tekapo in New Zealand.

This 8.0 km loop track takes you through forests and over tussock hills with panoramic views of the Mackenzie Basin flats, lakes and mountains. After a 393m elevation gain to the top, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views from the viewing platform as well as access to Mt John Observatory and its onsite cafe. It’s an easy to moderate tramping track that takes around 3 hours to complete, with excellent views the whole way around.

If you don’t feel up for a full hike, you can also drive to the top of Mount John and just do the Summit Circuit Track, which only takes 30-45 minutes!

More Hikes in Lake Tekapo:

9. Peninsular Walkway Track

The Lake Tekapo Peninsula Walkway is a 5.3-km circuit trail located in Tekapo. With 118m of elevation gain, be prepared for a couple of steep inclines. However, most people consider the walkway an easy route, and it takes around 1.5 hours to complete.

10. Cowans Hill Walkway

The Cowans Hill Walkway is a popular walking and tramping track that begins near the Tekapo Road Bridge in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand. This 3.2 km one-way track (or 6.3km return) offers an easy walk with a 128m elevation gain, taking you beneath a picturesque forest and back out into open tussock country with amazing views of the surrounding area – particularly during lupin season.

The track can also be enjoyed on mountain bikes for those seeking more of an adventure – graded 2 for difficulty. With incredible sights across the lake and the Alps beyond, it’s no wonder why this walkway is considered one of the best things to do in Tekapo!

11. Enjoy the views from the Tekapo Footbridge

Also known as Maclarens footbridge, the bridge that takes pedestrians from a domain Drive over to the Church of the Good Shepherd.

Although it’s fairly new and not particularly famous (at least compared to the church, which has been listed as the most photographed building in New Zealand), the bridge was one of my famous spots to take in the best Tekapo views.

Looking directly down at the water, I could truly appreciate how wonderfully blue it was. Meanwhile, I had the iconic church to one side and the Alps towering behind me.

It might be a quick pit stop and only 125 metres long, but worth the quick stop while you’re at the church.

12. Crater Experience at Cowan’s Private Observatory

Take the whole family on a journey to the heavens with the crater experience at Cowan’s Private Observatory in Tekapo!

On the tour, you’ll spend 1 hour and 15 minutes exploring the Southern night sky through their 14″ telescopes guided by knowledgeable astronomy guides. The venue was built into ‘craters’ to shelter it from wind and rain.

Wrap up warm all year around, as it gets chilly up on the hill. In case of bad weather resulting in poor visibility, refunds or an indoor alternative at their interactive venue will be provided.

Price: Check prices and availability here.

Address: State Highway 8, Lake Tekapo 7999

13. Explore with an epic 4WD backcountry tour

Take on one of the most exciting Lake Tekapo things to do with an off-road 4WD Lake Tekapo backcountry tour! Your tour guide will take you on a bumpy ride through Mackenzie Country’s dramatic landscapes. Besides the excellent views, you’ll also learn about life on the high-country farming stations and even meet some local sheep and horses along the way.

With excellent remote lookouts, endless wilderness views, and an interesting insight into what life is like for those who run the remote sheep stations, it’s a great way to explore another side of Tekapo. 

Price: Check prices and availability here.

14. Kayaking and paddle-boarding

If you’re visiting Tekapo in Summer, why not take in the excellent views from the lake itself? 

Head to Paddle Tekapo to rent a kayak or paddleboard suitable for all ages and abilities. You’ll be briefed beforehand to make sure you get used to the equipment before heading out onto the lake for a unique perspective of its surrounding scenery.

At this time of year, the cheapest way to enjoy the waters is simply to go for a swim! Admittedly, the water would still be too cold for me, but if you decide to go for a dip in the sun, you definitely won’t be the first.

Price: Prices vary but are usually $25 – $45 for adults. You can hire a range of kayaking and paddleboarding equipment from Paddle Tekapo

Opening Hours: 10 am – 6 pm (usually), but they can also do earlier or later by arrangement.

Address: Lakeside Drive, Lake Tekapo (in front of the campsite)

15. Explore from the air

A magical activity to add to your Lake Tekapo itinerary is undoubtedly to take a scenic flight over the brilliant landscapes. I mean, seriously, what better way is there to understand how truly beautiful it is than to see the wonderful mountains mapped out from above?

From the highest peaks and giant glaciers to wild tussocks and azure lakes, every guest will be guaranteed a window seat. I didn’t get to do a scenic flight during my trip to NZ, but it would be top of my list for a second visit!

See the Air Safaris website for more details.

16. Stroll through hundreds of vibrant lupins

During this time of year, the bright purple lupins bloom along the shores of Lake Tekapo in New Zealand and create a stunning display of colour against the backdrop of its azure waters. Visitors can enjoy long walks around the lake while admiring these beautiful flowers and taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The Cowans Hill Walkway provides an ideal opportunity to experience this unique sight up close.

The downside of lupin season is that it tends to get very busy and, as a result, prices go up – especially as it also coincides with the new zealand summer holidays. So you should absolutely book things in advance if visiting Tekapo during lupin season.

17. Ice skating on Lake Tekapo

It’s worth visiting Tekapo Springs all year around, but in Winter, they give you an extra incentive to visit the Tekapo attraction: a spectacular outdoor ice skating rink!

If you’re wondering what to do in Lake Tekapo in Winter, then this international-sized rink is a magical option running between April to September, with ice discos, figure skating, curling, and ice hockey games.

For those observing rink-side, there are wooden tables, a warm open fire, and beautiful views lover the lake and mountains.

Price: Check the Tekapo Springs website for details

Address: Lakeside Drive, Lake Tekapo 7945

18 Māori Heritage and Astronomy Experience

There are a number of stargazing experiences in Lake Tekapo, but if you’re looking for things to do in Tekapo with kids, then the Dark Sky Experience is a great option for the whole family. As the attraction is indoors, you can even do it during daylight hours and when the skies aren’t clear enough for the night-time alternatives.

The tour will take you on a journey through time and space and features a unique fusion of Māori astronomy, science and multi-media displays. Immerse yourself into 45 minutes of fascinating history as you discover the links between Western science and ancient traditions in this interactive indoor exhibition.

Price: Check prices and availability here.

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Address: Pines Beach, Lake Tekapo 7630

Best things to do near Lake Tekapo

19. Visit Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is a stunning alpine region located in the Southern Alps of New Zealand’s South Island. The area features majestic mountains, glaciers, rivers, and lakes, as well as lush subalpine meadows and valleys. 

I adored my visit to Mount Cook in Winter, and it’s probably within my top 5 fav spots in New Zealand, so maybe I’m biased when saying it’s one of the best things to do around Lake Tekapo in New Zealand! With excellent activities and sites such as the Hooker Valley Track and Tasman Glacier, be prepared for the best scenery of your life!

20. Visit Lake Pukaki

If you’re visiting Aoraki Mount Cook (above), you’ll automatically drive alongside Lake Pukaki’s bright blue shores as you head towards the mountains beyond.

However, it’s well worth stopping at one of the lookout points on the way or stopping by the lake. (I ended up staying for three nights at Glentanner Camping Park following a landslide!! At least the views were superb!)

If you don’t have much time to spare, stop at Peter’s Lookout for excellent views of Lake Pukaki with Mount Cook towering behind it, providing good weather lures the mountain out of hiding, or stroll along the Lake Pukaki Shoreline Walk. If you’re into mountain scenery, then this is definitely one of the most memorable things to do near Tekapo.

21. Go skiing or snowboarding

If you’re new to skiing, there’s a great little ski field just 32 kilometres from Tekapo. Roundhill is a family-run ski resort boasting excellent views over Aoraki Mount Cook, welcoming all skiers and boarders of all ages and abilities to enjoy their relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere.

However, experienced skiers can also test their abilities by taking on its mega rope tow, which is the largest and steepest in the world. So for winter sports fans, visiting Australasia’s biggest vertical drop (783m) should definitely be added to your Tekapo to do list.

Meanwhile, Ohau Ski Area is just under 100 kilometres away from Tekapo. You can hire snow chains at Lake Ohau Lodge before making the 20-minute drive to the snow fields if needed.

Aside from excellent skiing and boarding for all abilities, there are some walks (with brilliant views) at the top, too, plus a day lodge with a log burner and great food.

Of course, the more famous ski areas in New Zealand aren’t too far from Tepako for those planning to experience Queenstown or Wanaka’s nearby slopes, but it’s great that these options are available so close to the town! 

So if you’re looking for fun things to do in Lake Tekapo during the Winter season, don’t miss hitting the slopes.

Best time to visit Lake Tekapo

There’s no bad time to visit Tekapo, but here’s a brief overview of what to expect throughout the year.

Lupin season

The best time to see lupins in Lake Tekapo is during the spring and summer months, from late October through to February. However, you’ll get the best of the blooms between mid-November to early January. 

Summer (high-season)

With the added benefit of being able to kayak over the lake, which will look extra turquoise under the bright sun, Summer is a great time to visit Tekapo. However, bear in mind that Summer is the busiest season, and you can expect higher rates and bigger crowds. 

Spring and Autumn (shoulder seasons)

The shoulder seasons are always great times to visit New Zealand in general, with milder weather but fewer crowds than the busy Summer months, especially if you avoid public holidays. Both seasons offer unique colourful backdrops and are an ideal time for outdoor activities. Unless you’re particularly keen to see the lupins, the shoulder seasons are an ideal time to visit Tekapo, especially if you want to avoid the Winter cold. 

Winter

 I adored my visit to Tekapo in Winter when the snow provided a white blanket with which to tuck in the church and stunning surroundings. Make sure you wrap up warm and tread carefully, as the ice is as treacherous as it is beautiful, but in terms of scenery, it’s like walking into Narnia (or one of the epic Lord of the Rings locations).

Winter in Tekapo couldn’t be better, in my opinion. Crowds are moderate during the ski season, as people stop at Tekapo on the way to Queenstown, but certainly not overwhelming. 

Where to stay in Lake Tekapo

Campervan & Holiday Park: I adored my stay at Lakes Edge Holiday Park! If you’re road-tripping NZ, they have excellent non-powered and powered sites overlooking the lake and great shared facilities, including barbecue facilities, picnic tables, clean bathrooms, a shared lounge, and unlimited WiFi. Other accommodation options include studios, apartments, and bungalows.

Hostel: Budget travellers don’t have to miss out on lakeside views, this hostel has floor-to-ceiling windows looking over Tekapo in all its glory! YHA Lake Tekapo has superb facilities, including a large shared kitchen and a cosy lounge. Guests can choose between contemporary dorm rooms or private studios with a kitchenette.

Mid-range Hotel: Tekapo Heights is as good as it gets, with superb lake and mountain views and just a short walk to the village restaurants and The Church of the Good Shepherd, which is considered one of the most beautiful things to do in Tekapo. Rooms come with a TV with Netflix, a coffee maker, guest toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers.

Hotel: The Mackenzie Suites offers luxury Tekapo accommodation right by the side of the lake. Each sublime suite comes with a kitchenette with stone benches, a refrigerator, and a dishwasher. You’ll also have your own dining area, bathrobes, and some rooms feature a wall gas fireplace.

Luxury: Tekapo accommodation doesn’t get better than at the Grand Suites Lake Tekapo. With amazing views of Lake Tekapo and a fab location, just a few minutes walk from the village, you’ll be all set to explore. The spacious and contemporary apartments come with a dining and kitchen area, 50-inch TV, huge windows, heating and air-con, continental breakfast, and some have a jacuzzi bath.

Where to eat in Lake Tekapo

Dark Sky Diner: Enjoy lakefront dining with excellent South American-inspired dishes, floor-to-ceiling views, and excellent service – possibly the best overall place to eat in Tekapo.

The Better Batter NZ: Keep things simple with Tekapo’s best fish and chips! Offering a few traditional takeout options but at an excellent quality (they currently have an average of 5* reviews on Google!) with friendly local service, this is a great way to enjoy a brilliant meal at the side of the lake.

Astro Cafe: For cafe food but with absolutely superb views at the top of Mount John’s summit.

Jack Rabbit: ideal on a sunny day when you can enjoy an alfresco meal or morning coffee looking over the lake. Could there be a better way to wake yourself up in the morning?

Lake Tekapo things to do Q&A

How many days do you need in Lake Tekapo?

You could easily spend 2-3 days in Lake Tekapo, especially in Summer when there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, many tourists just spend a day here on the way to Mount Cook, which is enough time to briefly enjoy the scenery and 

Why is Lake Tekapo so blue?

Lake Tekapo’s memorably turquoise colour is caused by fine rock flour that doesn’t sink, so it remains suspended in the water and reflects in the sunlight.

What does Tekapo mean in Māori ?

Tekapo loosely translates to ‘to leave in haste at night’ in te reo Māori.

What is Tekapo known for?

Tekapo is known for its bright blue waters, multicoloured lupins in summer, and excellent stargazing due to its location within a dark sky reserve. It’s popular to visit during a trip to the Southern Alps and often combined with visits to Mount Cook and Lake Pukaki.

Is it worth visiting Lake Tekapo?

It’s definitely worth visiting Lake Tekapo. Not only is the scenery stunning, but it’s conveniently located between Christchurch and Mount Cook, Wanaka, or Queenstown. So even if the Dark Sky Reserve, mountain landscapes, and fun lakeside activities don’t do it for you, then it’s still worth enjoying the Tekapo’s brilliant blue waters as a quick stop.

Hope this post has helped you discover some of the best things to do in Tekapo. This is such a beautiful part of New Zealand, and I can’t wait for you to see it for yourself. Have a great trip!