Things to do in Lake Tekapo

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Lake Tekapo which includes mountains, a lake or waterhole and wildflowers
Church of the Good Shepherd featuring night scenes and a church or cathedral
Mackenzie Country
Lake Tekapo featuring a lake or waterhole
Lake Tekapo which includes mountains, a sunset and landscape views

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Lake Tekapo must see attractions

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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Lake Pukaki showing mountains, snow and a lake or waterhole

2. Tekapo Springs

Soak in soothing heated pools or pamper yourself with a remedial treatment at the Tekapo Springs spa.
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Tekapo Springs which includes snow and landscape views

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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Church of the Good Shepherd showing a lake or waterhole, farmland and landscape views

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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Mount John Observatory which includes tranquil scenes, a river or creek and landscape views

5. Roundhill Ski Area

Overlooking the beautiful azure stretch of Lake Tekapo in Mackenzie Country, Roundhill Ski Area is an exciting and family-friendly ski field amid breathtaking South Island scenery. From an extensive learners’ area to a freestyle terrain park and Australasia’s biggest vertical drop, this little ski field covers a wide range of skill levels.
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Roundhill Ski Area featuring snow and mountains

6. 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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Sheepdog Statue showing a statue or sculpture

What to do in Lake Tekapo

Discover the most popular places to visit in Lake Tekapo

Tekapo Springs which includes snow and landscape views

Tekapo Springs

4.5/5(15 reviews)

Lie back and relax in healing waters, enjoy a massage or get involved in a range of outdoor activities, all with a fabulous alpine backdrop.

Tekapo Springs
Church of the Good Shepherd showing a lake or waterhole, farmland and landscape views

Church of the Good Shepherd

4.5/5(52 reviews)

Stop off at this charming church to enjoy stunning mountain views, appreciate some fine stone carving and learn its fascinating history.

Church of the Good Shepherd
Sheepdog Statue showing a statue or sculpture

Sheepdog Statue

4/5(21 reviews)

Standing proudly before the snow-capped Southern Alps, this famous statue is testament to the high esteem with which sheepdogs are held in this area.

Sheepdog Statue

Dark Sky Project

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at Dark Sky Project as part of your travels around Lake Tekapo. Wander the lakeside in this family-friendly area.

Dark Sky Project

The Cairns Golf Course - Lake Tekapo

Enjoy a round of golf in Lake Tekapo at The Cairns Golf Course - Lake Tekapo. Wander the lakeside in this family-friendly area.

The Cairns Golf Course - Lake Tekapo

Cowans Hill Walkway

You can find out about the history of Lake Tekapo when you stop by Cowans Hill Walkway. Wander the lakeside in this quaint area.

Cowans Hill Walkway