What to do in Tekapo

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo provided by Roundhill Ski Resort
Photo provided by Roundhill Ski Resort
Photo provided by Roundhill Ski Resort
Photo provided by Roundhill Ski Resort
Photo provided by Roundhill Ski Resort
Photo provided by Roundhill Ski Resort
Mount John Observatory showing tranquil scenes, landscape views and mountains
Mount John Observatory showing mountains and tranquil scenes

Places to Visit in Tekapo

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Tekapo, Canterbury while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Tekapo attractions from NZ$61, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Tekapo tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 47 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Tekapo. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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Top places to visit

1. Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park is a fantastic place to enjoy New Zealand’s winter, with skiing and snow sports, hot springs, and snow-capped mountains and glaciers sparkling in the sun. During summer, water sports and hiking are popular. Enjoy the scenic beauty while hiking near mountain peaks, beech forests and a landscape carved by glacial movement.
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Mount Cook National Park showing tranquil scenes, mountains and a river or creek

2. 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 which includes snow, a lake or waterhole and mountains

3. Tekapo Springs

Soak in soothing heated pools or pamper yourself with a remedial treatment at the Tekapo Springs spa.
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In the shoulder season the pools are very quiet. Since they're hot, it really doesn't matter what the weather does.

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 showing landscape views, a river or creek and tranquil scenes

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 showing mountains and snow

Recommended things to do in Tekapo

Number of things to do
47
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Dark Sky Indoor Maori Cultural Astronomy Experience: NZ$61
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Tekapo

Discover the most popular places to visit in Tekapo

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

Mount John Observatory

4.5/5(66 reviews)

Take an evening tour to see the wonders of the night sky or visit during the day to enjoy the stunning views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains.

Mount John Observatory
Roundhill Ski Area showing mountains and snow

Roundhill Ski Area

4.5/5(9 reviews)

Spend the day discovering this ski field above Lake Tekapo, which provides beginner-friendly runs alongside the steepest vertical drop in the country.

Roundhill Ski Area

Mount John Lookout

4.5/5(45 reviews)

You can learn about the history of Tekapo with a stop at Mount John Lookout. Stroll along the lakeside in this quaint area or visit its top-notch restaurants.

Mount John Lookout

Lake Tekapō Regional Park

Explore the great outdoors at Lake Tekapō Regional Park, a lovely green space in Tekapo.

Lake Tekapō Regional Park

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Tekapo

Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook

Lake Tekapo featuring mountains, a lake or waterhole and wild flowers

Lake Tekapo

Lake Pukaki featuring snow, mountains and a lake or waterhole

Pukaki

Fairlie

Fairlie

Photo by The Adventure is Calling

Peel Forest

Photo by Mel Fekto

Burkes Pass

Frequently asked questions

Is Tekapo worth visiting?
Tekapo has a unique mix of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or regional cuisine, there's plenty you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Tekapo?
Mount John Observatory is a great place to begin your getaway adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and retail options in Tekapo while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Tekapo?
Plan a day at Mount John Observatory and discover why it's rated as the top tourist attraction near Tekapo.
Is three days enough to stay in Tekapo?
Three days in Tekapo is enough time to discover the nearby sights. Many travellers love Mount John Observatory and Lake Tekapō Regional Park, so why not check them out while you're in the area?
What are some activities to do in Tekapo with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Tekapo with kids.

What to do in Tekapo for adults?
Adults of all ages will find lots of things to do in Tekapo. Whether you're into local cuisine, outdoor pursuits or just love discovering new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Tekapo?
You won't have to go out of your way to find free things to do in Tekapo. Just ask a local tour guide and they'll have suggestions for places and activities you can experience with no costs involved. One free option for your itinerary is Lake Tekapō Regional Park.