Overview

Lake Tekapo, in the Mackenzie Basin of Canterbury, dazzles with milky turquoise waters, lupin-lined shores, and majestic Southern Alps backdrops.

A stargazer’s dream and wellness haven, Tekapo blends iconic scenery, world-class dark sky astronomy, and relaxing hot springs into an unforgettable alpine escape.

  • Home to the famous Church of the Good Shepherd and pastel lupin blooms.
  • Recognised as one of the world’s darkest skies, it is great for stargazing and astrophotography.
  • Base for scenic flights, alpine hikes, hot pools, and lakeside adventures.

Food & Drink

Tekapo’s cafes and bakeries offer hearty meals, local produce, and stunning lake views.

  • Poppies Café – panoramic lakeside seating with breakfast favourites and cabinet treats.
  • Run 76 Café & Bar – social hub for coffee, craft beer, Tex-Mex meals and live music.
  • Tekapo Springs Café – post-soak bites and drinks beside pools and slides.

Adventure & Wilderness

From gentle lakeside strolls to scenic flights and water sports, Tekapo excels in alpine adventure.

  • Walk or bike the Lake Tekapo Centennial Trail – 5 km easy scenic loop around the lake.
  • Stargazing and astronomy tours – guided observatory sessions under pristine dark skies.
  • Scenic flights – small‑plane or helicopter rides over Mt Cook, Tasman Glacier and surrounding peaks.
  • Tekapo Springs – hot pools, heli-skiing access in winter, and snow tubing in season.
  • Kayaking and boat cruises – enjoy turquoise waters and mountain reflections up close.

Must‑See Highlights

A curated list of iconic Lake Tekapo experiences that capture its beauty and spirit.

  • Church of the Good Shepherd: picturesque stone church by the lake, framed by lupins and mountains.
  • Mount John Observatory & Summit Walk: panoramic views, guided night sky tours, and lakeside sunsets.
  • Tekapo Springs: geothermal hot pools, waterslides and winter snow tubing.
  • Lake shore lupin displays: vibrant flowerfields in bloom, best from November to early January.

Shopping

Browse for local crafts, stargazing gear and regional souvenirs in Tekapo’s boutique shops.

  • Tekapo General Store – unique local gifts, outdoor essentials and foodie fare.
  • Photography galleries – framed prints of northern lights, lupins and mountain vistas.

Photography

Capture Lake Tekapo’s magical light, starry skies and lupin colours through these vantage points.

  • Church of the Good Shepherd at sunrise – reflective calm waters and alpine backdrop.
  • Mount John viewpoint at dusk – panoramic lake and twilight skies.
  • Lake shore with lupins – vibrant flowerbeds framing the turquoise lake.

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring–Summer (Sept–Mar): Peak lupin bloom, stargazing nights and warm lakeside walks.
  • Autumn (Apr–May): Crisp air, golden tussock slopes and quiet trails.
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Snow-capped peaks, heli-skiing, cosy hot pools and clear starry skies.

Explore Nearby

  • Mt Cook/Aoraki National Park – glacier walks and alpine vistas, ~1 hr drive.
  • Lake Pukaki – deeper turquoise waters and mountain views, ~45 minutes north.
  • Twizel – fishing village, cycling trails and access to the Alpaca farm, ~20 minutes away.
Name Section Address/Location Geo Coordinates
Church of the Good Shepherd Must-See Highlights Lake Tekapo, Canterbury -44.0065, 170.4830
Mount John Observatory Must-See Highlights Mount John Rd, Lake Tekapo -43.9940, 170.4656