Lake Tekapo Holidays

Things to do in and around Lake Tekapo

Shopping

In Lake Tekapo, you can find charming local shops offering unique souvenirs and gifts. If you're up for a drive, head to Twizel’s Four Square and Mackenzie Country Gift Shop for a wider selection of artisan products and local delicacies.

Recreation

Mount John Observatory offers a cosmic experience just 1.6km from Lake Tekapo, perfect for families and entertainment. For sports enthusiasts, The Cairns Golf Course provides stunning outdoor settings. Meanwhile, the Lake Tekapō Regional Park invites relaxation and wellness, also situated 1.6km away, in peaceful natural surroundings.

Adventure

Embark on the Cowans Hill Walkway for a scenic hiking experience, immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes of Lake Tekapo. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Roundhill Ski Area offers thrilling skiing opportunities only 24.1km away, while the Hooker Valley Track presents a breathtaking hike 49.9km from the lake.

Nightlife

Lake Tekapo offers a serene nightlife, perfect for stargazing and enjoying the stunning night sky. For a relaxed evening, visit the Tekapo Springs for hot pools and live music, or unwind at The Dark Sky Project for an unforgettable astronomy experience.

Find the best attractions in Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, located in the Mackenzie District, is an idyllic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore stunning attractions such as the picturesque lake, the famous Church of the Good Shepherd, and the breathtaking lookouts. For relaxation, Tekapo Springs offers hot pools and spa treatments, ensuring a memorable experience in this beautiful area. Whether you're seeking culture or simply wish to enjoy the enchanting scenery, Lake Tekapo has something for everyone.

• Tekapo Springs: Immerse yourself in the soothing waters of Tekapo Springs, a natural hot spring offering outdoor pools with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy wellness treatments and relax in a serene environment, making it perfect for rejuvenation after a day of exploration.
• Church of the Good Shepherd: This iconic stone church, overlooking Lake Tekapo, is a testament to local craftsmanship and spirituality. Its picturesque setting and beautiful stained-glass windows create a peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular spot for reflection and photography.
• Sheepdog Statue: A tribute to the hardworking sheepdogs of the region, this bronze statue captures the spirit of rural life in New Zealand. Located near the lake, it's a charming photo opportunity that highlights the importance of sheep farming in the Mackenzie District.

Best time to go to Lake Tekapo

The best time to visit Lake Tekapo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with frequent rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	32.4°F (0.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	27.1°F (-2.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	25.0°F (-3.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	26.4°F (-3.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	28.9°F (-1.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High

Tips to save on your trip to Lake Tekapo

• Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
• Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically June and August to September) for more affordable package holidays to Lake Tekapo.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.