What to do in Lake Tekapo

Activities, attractions and tours

A lake with purple flowers in the foreground, a turquoise sea, and snow-capped mountains in the background.
A stone church under a starry night sky with the Milky Way visible.
A mountain range with snow-capped peaks and a calm lake in the foreground.
A calm lake with mountains in the background and people walking on the rocky shore.
A mountain range with snow-capped peaks and a body of water in the foreground.

Things to do

Lake Tekapo: Single Day Pass for Hot Pools

Lake Tekapo: Single Day Multiple Entry Pass for Hot Pools

฿763
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Lake Tekapo: Single Day Multiple Entry Pass for Hot Pools
Mount John Observatory Stargazing Experience, Tekapo

Mount John Observatory Stargazing Experience, Tekapo

฿4,286
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Mount John Observatory Stargazing Experience, Tekapo
Picture 1 for Activity Lake Tekapo: 1.5-Hour Hot Pools & Stargazing Experience

Lake Tekapo: 1.5-Hour Hot Pools & Stargazing Experience

฿3,607
per adult
Lake Tekapo: 1.5-Hour Hot Pools & Stargazing Experience
Dark Sky Indoor Maori Cultural Astronomy Experience

Dark Sky Indoor Maori Cultural Astronomy Experience

฿1,155
per adult
Dark Sky Indoor Maori Cultural Astronomy Experience
Mt Cook One Way Tour From Christchurch Via Lake Tekapo

Christchurch to Mt Cook via Tekapo (1 way) (Small Group)

฿4,294
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Christchurch to Mt Cook via Tekapo (1 way) (Small Group)
Shared Stargazing Tour

Chameleon Stargazing Shared Tour

฿2,290
per adult
Chameleon Stargazing Shared Tour
Christchurch to Tekapo Small-Group Tour

Christchurch to Tekapo Small-Group Tour (one-way)

฿3,873
per adult
Christchurch to Tekapo Small-Group Tour (one-way)
Stargazing Experience at Cowan's Private Observatory

Stargazing Experience at Cowan's Private Observatory

฿2,525
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Stargazing Experience at Cowan's Private Observatory
Picture 3 for Activity Lake Tekapo: Stargazing Experience at Cowan's Observatory

Lake Tekapo: Crater Stargazing at Cowan's Observatory

฿2,462
per adult
Lake Tekapo: Crater Stargazing at Cowan's Observatory
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Top places to visit

1. Lake Pukaki

Lake Pukaki sits below New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook. Combined the lake and mountain create one of the country’s most awe-inspiring vistas. When you see the ethereal, turquoise color of the water, which turns milky when the clouds roll in, you may want to pinch yourself to check if you aren’t dreaming.
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A mountain range with snow-capped peaks, a dense forest, and a turquoise lake.

2. Tekapo Springs

Soak in soothing heated pools or pamper yourself with a remedial treatment at the Tekapo Springs spa.
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A swimming pool with a mountainous backdrop.

3. Church of the Good Shepherd

Take in the exceptional views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains with a visit to the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd. Explore the small building’s simple but charming main chamber and chat with the vicar about the history of the local area. Be sure to walk around the grounds, taking in magnificent alpine views.
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A stone church under a starry night sky.

4. Mount John Observatory

Mount John Observatory is one of New Zealand’s leading observatories. Being located on a hilltop overlooking the mesmerizing Lake Tekapo, it’s also hugely popular for its day-time views.
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A lake surrounded by mountains with snow-capped peaks and a small island with trees.

5. Sheepdog Statue

Visit the grand Sheepdog Statue and learn why these dogs were so pivotal to the history and settlement of the Mackenzie Basin. Enjoy fantastic views of the lake and surrounding mountains and look for real dogs still working the land nearby.
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A bronze statue of a dog standing on a rock against a blue sky with clouds.

What to do in Lake Tekapo

Stay near popular Lake Tekapo attractions

A swimming pool with a mountainous backdrop.
Photo by chickbill
Open Photo by chickbill

Tekapo Springs

9.0/10 (453 reviews)
Soak in the hot pools with panoramic views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. Experience stargazing tours in this International Dark Sky Reserve, where celestial wonders come alive after sunset.
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Frequently asked questions

Is Lake Tekapo worth visiting?
Whether you plan to experience the cultural highlights and local charm or try regional foods and venture into nature, there are plenty of things to do in Lake Tekapo.
How do I spend a day in Lake Tekapo?
When you've checked off popular attractions like Tekapo Springs and Dark Sky Project, spend some time enjoying Lake Tekapo's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Lake Tekapo?
The top tourist attraction in Lake Tekapo is Tekapo Springs, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Lake Tekapo?
Three days will be plenty of time to check out many city sights, including Tekapo Springs, Dark Sky Project and Mount John Observatory. The average stay in Lake Tekapo is two days. If you have the urge to extend your getaway, Twizel isn't far away.
Is Lake Tekapo a walkable city?
If touring on foot sounds like your kind of holiday, Lake Tekapo is a perfect destination. Find major attractions, including Tekapo Springs, within walking distance of downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Tekapo, a hip neighbourhood located about 2 kilometres from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in Lake Tekapo with kids?
Planning what to do in Lake Tekapo with kids has never been easier. Whether you're taking a trip with toddlers or teenagers, there are plenty of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them busy here.
What to do in Lake Tekapo for adults?
Adults of all ages will have plenty of things to do in Lake Tekapo. Whether you're into local cuisine, outdoor activities or just love finding new places to explore, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Lake Tekapo?
In Lake Tekapo, Church of the Good Shepherd is a must-see spot for anyone looking to enjoy the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to explore the best free things to do in Lake Tekapo.