Tekapo
Lake Tekapo, or Tekapo, is a small town situated in the Mackenzie Basin region of New Zealand’s South Island. Just over three hours’ driving either east or west on SH8 leads to Christchurch (227km) and Queenstown (256km).
The town is a popular tourist destination, an almost obligatory comfort break for travellers en route. Its attractions include the Church of the Good Shepherd (built in 1935 as a memorial to the pioneers of the region), the bronze sheepdog (built in tribute to working dogs), Mt John University Observatory and of course the lake itself. more
During the summer months, Lake Tekapo experiences mild, sunny weather, whilst its winter can be extremely cold. In all seasons, sunlight helps to create the Lake Tekapo's amazing turquoise blue colour (particles of 'rock flour' ground by the glaciers in the lake's headwaters).
In 2012, the Observatory was declared the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve meaning "it is one of the best stargazing sites on Earth". Go by day and enjoy the views, go by night and enjoy the skies.
Other attractions include Tekapo Springs (spa and winter sports), horse treks, golf, fishing, hunting, lake cruises and scenic flights. Accommodation includes camping grounds, backpackers, holiday homes, motel and hotel accommodation.
Please choose from the main accommodation, attractions, tours, transport or visitor information categories below for Tekapo, MacKenzie Country, New Zealand.
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Attractions and Activities
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Attractions and Activities
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ALPINE RECREATION LAKE TEKAPO SNOWSHOEING - Lake Tekapo
ALPINE RECREATION LAKE TEKAPO SNOWSHOEING - Lake Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - The Southern Alp foothills undergo magical transformation in winter. A covering of snow creates an extensive playground for trampers on snowshoes. Hike 3 hours to our cosy mountain-hut at the snowline (1280m). From here we explore a winter wonderland of ice-covered streams, curving ridges, snowy valleys, returning each night to relax by the warmth of a pot-belly stove.
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ALPINE RECREATION MT COOK TREK - Mt Cook
ALPINE RECREATION MT COOK TREK - Mt Cook
Mobile-friendly - Follow in Sir Edmund Hillary's footsteps as you climb up the Ball Ridge to view the mighty Caroline Face front-on - New Zealand's highest ice face. From Caroline Hut, your private refuge for the night, you look out over the Tasman Glacier and its surrounding peaks, the highest in New Zealand. Fit hikers love this challenge!
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ALPINE RECREATION TEKAPO TREK - Lake Tekapo
ALPINE RECREATION TEKAPO TREK - Lake Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - You'll be inspired by the magic light of the Mackenzie Country across golden tussock, snow-capped peaks and turquoise of Lake Tekapo, when you trek with the team at Alpine Recreation. Hike above the foothills of the Southern Alps and climb a 2070m peak, returning to a cosy mountain hut. Enjoy a star-studded evening sky on this ideal introduction to hiking.
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DARK SKY PROJECT – Takapō (Tekapo)
DARK SKY PROJECT – Takapō (Tekapo)
Mobile-friendly - Formerly Earth & Sky, Dark Sky Project is proud to be NZ’s premier stargazing and observatory experience located in one of the best regions in the world for seeing the night skies. Our expert guides and astrophotographers share the science and stories of the southern skies at a range of locations including the world-renowned University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory.
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GEM ALPACA FARM TOURS - Fairlie, Canterbury
GEM ALPACA FARM TOURS - Fairlie, Canterbury
Spend a relaxing hour with us and over 70 alpaca on our farm. We are experienced alpaca breeders of 18 years. You will be able to feed, touch and get great photos with our alpaca & llama. Find out all sorts of wonderful facts on these lovely animals. We also have pet sheep to touch and feed.
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LAKEFRONT LODGE BACKPACKERS - Lake Tekapo
LAKEFRONT LODGE BACKPACKERS - Lake Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - Built to blend-in with the environment, Lakefront Lodge comfortably sleeps 76 people in dorm rooms with variety of stand-alone private accommodation outside including twin & double-units, ensuite-units and glamping in summer. Situated on the shore overlooking beautiful Lake Tekapo and the mountains beyond, perfect for groups, sports clubs, schools, families, and individual travellers and anyone looking for communal affordable accommodation.
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LAKE TEKAPO HOLIDAY HOMES - Lake Tekapo
LAKE TEKAPO HOLIDAY HOMES - Lake Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - Visit stunning Lake Tekapo and stay in one of our fully self-contained holiday homes for one night or longer. We have 50 homes to choose from, so whether it is a cosy place for 2 or a large accommodation group up to 8, we have your Tekapo accommodation solution. Explore the Mckenzie Country. View our Lake Tekapo holiday properties today.
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LAKE TEKAPO MOTELS & HOLIDAY PARK - Lake Tekapo
LAKE TEKAPO MOTELS & HOLIDAY PARK - Lake Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - Lake Tekapo Holiday Park is set on the picturesque shores of beautiful Lake Tekapo, with magnificent views across the lake to surrounding mountains with stunning night sky. From cabins to family units, ensuite units, motels, powered or non-powered sites. Lake Tekapo Holiday Park is an idyllic place to stay for a night or two or make it your holiday destination.
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MACKENZIE GATEWAY TOURS - Fairlie, Canterbury NZ
MACKENZIE GATEWAY TOURS - Fairlie, Canterbury NZ
If you are thinking of taking a holiday through the beautiful South Island of New Zealand please get in touch and let us help you see it in comfort and at your own speed. You name it and we will do our very best to make it happen. Our tours start from Christchurch, Dunedin, Queenstown etc.
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MANTRA LAKE TEKAPO - Lake Tekapo
MANTRA LAKE TEKAPO - Lake Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - Prepare yourself for some of the most spectacular mountain scenery you'll ever see at Mantra Lake Tekapo, two and a half hour scenic drive from Christchurch and Queenstown. With 21 spacious self-contained apartments, each offering three bedrooms, you will find everything you need in the fully equipped kitchens, two and a half bathrooms with underfloor heating and quality furnishings.
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NZSNOWTOURS - Southern Alps, New Zealand
NZSNOWTOURS - Southern Alps, New Zealand
Mobile-friendly - NZ Snow Tours offer quality, fully guided snow packages, based in Queenstown or Wanaka. We include everything you need for a stress free week on the snow. We pick you up from the airport and look after you every day, driving you direct to the best mountains NZ has to offer. Accommodation, lift passes are all included.
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TEKAPO JET - Lake Tekapo
TEKAPO JET - Lake Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - Tekapo's unique jetboat experience gives you the opportunity to connect with New Zealand's most beautiful lake. We're the only licensed jet boat operation on Lake Tekapo. You'll be treated to gorgeous views of ancient glacial valleys with remote high country sheep stations in the distance, stopping at some of Lake Tekapo's iconic landmarks. The best way to see The Lake.
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TEKAPO SPRINGS - Lake Tekapo
TEKAPO SPRINGS - Lake Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - Experience Tekapo Springs for relaxation and recreation in Lake Tekapo in the South Island! Relax in the hot pools or cooler pools with aqua play area. Enjoy the Jumpernaut (giant inflatable obstacle course) and amazing Aqua Drop (150-metre downhill water slide). Treat yourself to a massage or facial at the day spa then refuel at the Altitude 720 cafe/bar.
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TEKAPO STAR GAZING - Tekapo
TEKAPO STAR GAZING - Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - Soak in the stars with Tekapo Star Gazing, the only guided hot pools and stargazing tour in New Zealand! Learn about the incredible dark sky reserve with high-powered telescopes and a unique fusion of astronomy and storytelling then slip into a 38°C hot pool and admire the amazing Southern skies! Free Tekapo shuttle, towels and hot drinks are included.
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THE PACA SHACK - Fairlie, South Canterbury
THE PACA SHACK - Fairlie, South Canterbury
Come and feel the softness and luxury of Alpaca fibre. We are alpaca breeders, processing our gorgeous natural coloured fleeces into stunning yarn. Many hand knitted items and NZ made alpaca products are available. You can even book yourself in for a Gem Alpaca Farm Tour. Check out our website and we look forward to seeing you soon.
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