Exploring Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo is located at over 700 metres above sea level on State Highway 8, between Burkes Pass and Lake Pukaki in the Mackenzie Country. Known for its striking turquoise waters, the lake's vibrant hue is due to mineral particles suspended in the water from glacial activity. This unique feature makes Lake Tekapo a captivating destination for those travelling through the region. Summers are sunny and hot, with fields of colourful lupins a feature. Winter can be very cold, with periods of hoar frost.
Things to Do at Lake Tekapo
Over the years, Lake Tekapo has transformed from a quiet stopover into a more inviting place to explore. The lakefront has seen significant development, enhancing its appeal as a rest stop. What was once a limited stop for tour buses, the town now has stores and eateries with substantial parking next to the main highway.
A leisurely walk from the town centre leads to a scenic footbridge over the Tekapo River and to the Church of the Good Shepherd. There is also a memorial to the collie sheepdogs brought to the region by Scottish shepherds in the 1800s, which made it feasible to manage sheep on the high country. This is a popular spot for its picturesque views of the Two Thumb Range on the lake's eastern side.
For those seeking a more challenging hike, the trail to the top of Mount John offers panoramic views and features an observatory and café. Near the road entrance to Mount John is the attractive Lake Alexandrina, a quieter spot for a picnic.
There is also a campground right beside the lake, near the entrance to the Mount John Track.
Stargazing and Cycling Adventures
Lake Tekapo holds the distinction of being the world's first Dark Sky Reserve, making it an ideal location for stargazing. You can join a guided night sky tour or simply gaze at the Milky Way with the naked eye or binoculars.
Tekapo also serves as a starting point for the Alps 2 Ocean cycle trail, a six-day journey that concludes in Ōamaru on the east coast. The first stage takes you past the Tekapo Power Station, along the Tekapo Canal to Lake Pukaki, then onto Twizel.
How to Get to Lake Tekapo
To reach Lake Tekapo, travel along State Highway 8, which connects Burkes Pass and Lake Pukaki. The town is easily accessible by car and offers a scenic drive through the Mackenzie Country.
There are many options for exploring the region around Tekapo, including Mackenzie Pass, a drive to Aoraki Mt Cook, Lake Ruataniwha near Twizel, Lake Ōhau and the Ahuriri Valley.
