Tekapo Nature and Eco Tourism
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.
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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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- +64 3 680 6736
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- 0800 006 096 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- c/- Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand
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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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- +64 3 680 6960
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- 0800 327 5759 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 1 Motuariki Lane, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand
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GEM ALPACA FARM TOURS - Fairlie, Canterbury
GEM ALPACA FARM TOURS - Fairlie, Canterbury
Farm tours closed due to Covid for winter excluding school holidays. Spend a relaxing hour with us and over 70 alpaca on our farm. We are experienced alpaca breeders of 19 years. You will be able to feed, touch and get great photos with our alpaca & llama. We also have pet sheep to touch and feed.
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- 03 685 8689
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- +64 27 201 6994
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- 18 Nixons Road, Fairlie, Canterbury, New Zealand
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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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- +64 3 680 6579
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- 6 Lakeside Dr, Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
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THE PACA SHACK - Fairlie, South Canterbury
THE PACA SHACK - Fairlie, South Canterbury
Yes we are open 7 days. Check out our virtual tour of the shop without leaving your seat. Alpaca is 40% warmer than wool. Look through our large range: baby wear, slippers, socks, duvets, hats, gloves and much more. Biggest selection of alpaca yarn in New Zealand. We hand spin our own alpaca fleeces, in natural colours no dyes used.
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- +64 3 685 8689
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- 18 Nixons Rd, Fairlie, New Zealand
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