Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo

Kiwi Treasures & Information Centre

  • +64 3 680 6686

  • State Highway 8, Tekapo Village, Lake Tekapo

  • kiwitreasures@clear.net.nz

Travel Information (approximate times)

Christchurch: 3h
Timaru: 1h 20m
Twizel: 40m
Aoraki Mt Cook: 1h 15m
Queenstown: 3h
Dunedin: 3h 30m

Visit the AA Travel Maps AA Travel

Discover South Canterbury

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is home to around 400 residents, only one hour 20 minutes drive inland from Timaru and three hours drive south-west of Christchurch on State Highway 8, the inland tourist route to Aoraki/Mt Cook and Queenstown.

Picturesque by day and dazzling by night, Lake Tekapo is centered within Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the largest Dark Sky Reserve in the world and home of the lovingly restored 125-year-old Brashear Telescope. The township faces north across the remarkable turquoise coloured lake to the Church of the Good Shepherd with breath-taking views across the lake and mountain backdrop that makes it one of the most photographed churches on the planet.

Experience a bustling village atmosphere with a rich mix of cultures that contributes to this friendly vibrant community.  Check the weather right now – Live Webcam Lake Tekapo

Discover Lake Tekapo

A photographer’s paradise, explore the lake shore and regional park, pristine star gazing and astrology experiences, play a round of golf, try horse-back riding and the many walk and bike trails, off-road adventures, scenic flights, hot pool and spa experiences and so much more. Experience backpackers to 5 star accommodation, café and dining options of many cultures to excite your taste buds.

Stargazing & Dark Sky Experiences

Established in 1965, New Zealand’s premier astronomical research observatory sits atop Mount John near Lake Tekapo. Experience observatory tours, stargazing and astronomy options from several local operators including the 125-year-old Brashear Telescope at Dark Sky Project.

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Church of the Good Shepherd

On the shores of Lake Tekapo, amongst natural beauty of the lake and mountain backdrop, The Church of the Good Shepherd is one of New Zealand’s most visited landmarks.

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Ski & Snow

Roundhill and Mt Dobson ski areas are perfectly groomed for beginners to experienced skiiers and snow boarders, or high country ski and snow tours for adventure seekers.

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Lake Tekapo Regional Park

This 165 hectacre park on the south east edge of Lake Tekapo provides recreational facilities for the whole family and all fitness levels.

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Golf

The Cairns 18-hole course in Tekapo township, or Mackenzie Golf Club 4km from Tekapo is New Zealand’s highest 9 hole course, both with spectacular views.

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Lake Tekapo Businesses

Many remarkable businesses flourish here including leading food producers, a myriad of innovative tourism and hospitality operators all supported by high quality infrastructure businesses.

Featured Events

So much to see and do here. Find out What’s On or add your own South Canterbury event.

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