Lake Tekapo is renowned for its stunning turquoise waters, which are created by fine rock flour suspended in the water. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and expansive landscapes, the lake offers a picturesque setting perfect for photography and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and stargazing, as the area is part of a Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best places in New Zealand to observe the night sky.
From Mount Cook Villate to Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo is a little over 100 km from Mt. Cook Village, and the drive takes just a little over an hour.
Lake Tekapo Village
Lake Tekapo Village is a charming small town that serves as a gateway to the stunning natural beauty of the area. Visitors can explore a variety of shops and cafes, offering local crafts and delicious cuisine.
Things to do at Lake Tekapo
- Admire the stunning lake with its crystal-clear waters and the scenic Church of the Good Shepherd.
- Join a helicopter or plane excursion over the Cook mountain range. The helicopter tours even offer landings on the glaciers or snowy mountain tops! This experience, however, comes at quite a price.
- Join a nightly stargazing trip where you’ll learn about the stars in the Southern Hemisphere, and if it’s not cloudy, you should be able to catch a good glimpse of the Milky Way. However, avoid full moon nights, as the moon creates too much light pollution, making the Milky Way less visible. It’s still a great experience to watch the sky through a massive telescope and see the craters on the Moon and the rings of Saturn!
- Spend some time at the local spa, where you’ll find outdoor pools built on natural hot springs. You can soak in the relaxing waters while admiring the mountains in the distance.
Enjoy the gorgeous Lake Tekapo:
