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Things to Do in Lake Tekapo: Explore New Zealand’s in 2025

Things to do in Lake Tekapo include enjoying the beautiful lake, hiking, and stargazing. You can visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, a lovely stone church with amazing views of the lake. Lake Tekapo is also famous for its dark skies, making it a great place to see stars, especially at night.

If you like relaxing, Tekapo Springs has hot pools with beautiful views of the lake and mountains. You can also hike or drive up to Mount John for a beautiful view of the area. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in this peaceful place.

About Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a beautiful, turquoise-colored lake located on the South Island of New Zealand. It is known for its stunning scenery, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and vast plains. The area is famous for its clear night skies, making it one of the best places in the world for stargazing.

Visitors can explore the Church of the Good Shepherd, relax in the Tekapo Springs hot pools, or enjoy hiking and scenic flights. Lake Tekapo is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions like Mount Cook National Park and Lake Pukaki.

Best 15 Things to Do in Lake Tekapo 

Lake Tekapo is a beautiful place with many fun things to do. You can visit the famous Church of the Good Shepherd by the lake, go for a walk or bike ride along the shore, and enjoy the stunning views of Mount Cook.

Things to Do in Lake Tekapo

If you like stargazing, this area is one of the best places in the world to see the night sky. You can also relax in the Tekapo Springs hot pools, or take a scenic flight to see the lake and mountains from the air. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, making it a great destination for all types of travelers.

Free Things to Do in Lake Tekapo

Stargazing at The Dark Sky Reserve

One of the best free things to do in Lake Tekapo is to look at the stars. Lake Tekapo is part of a special area called the Dark Sky Reserve, which means the sky is very clear and dark at night. This makes it one of the best places to see stars.

Things to Do in Lake Tekapo

You can see the Milky Way and many bright stars without needing any special equipment. Just find a quiet spot by the lake, sit back, and enjoy the amazing view. Stargazing here is a peaceful and magical experience, and it doesn’t cost anything.

  • Look at the stars from the lakeside.
  • Enjoy the view of the Milky Way on a clear night.
  • Find a quiet spot to relax and watch the stars without any distractions.
  • Join a stargazing tour (some are free or low-cost).
  • Take beautiful photos of the night sky.

Stargazing at The Dark Sky Reserve

One of the best free things to do in Lake Tekapo is stargazing. Lake Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, which means the night sky here is incredibly clear and perfect for stargazing.

Things to Do in Lake Tekapo

You can see the Milky Way, countless stars, and even some planets. Just sit by the lake, look up, and enjoy the peaceful view of the sky. It’s a truly magical experience that doesn’t cost anything.

  • Stargaze by the lake or from a quiet spot.
  • See the Milky Way and bright stars.
  • Experience a peaceful night with no light pollution.

Walk The Peninsula Walkway

Another great free thing to do in Lake Tekapo is walking the Peninsula Walkway. This easy walk gives you stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The path takes you along the water’s edge and offers plenty of places to stop and enjoy the views.

Whether you’re walking alone, with family, or with friends, it’s a great way to enjoy nature without spending any money.

  • Take a peaceful walk along the lake’s edge.
  • Enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and water.
  • Stop at scenic spots to take photos or just relax.

Explore The Lake Tekapo Regional Park

The Lake Tekapo Regional Park is another amazing free thing to do in Lake Tekapo. You can walk or cycle through this park and enjoy the beautiful landscape. There are wide open spaces with incredible views of the lake and the mountains.

it’s a peaceful area where you can enjoy nature, watch birds, or just take in the fresh air. Best of all, it’s completely free to explore.

  • Walk or cycle around the park’s paths.
  • Take in the stunning views of the lake and mountains.
  • Enjoy the quiet surroundings and nature.

Visit The Cowan’s Hill Reserve

One of the free things to do in Lake Tekapo is visit the Cowan’s Hill Reserve. This is a quiet spot with amazing 360-degree views of Lake Tekapo, the mountains, and the surrounding area.

It’s an easy place to reach, and once you’re there, you can take in the stunning views from every direction. Whether you’re enjoying the view by yourself or with your family, it’s a perfect spot to relax and appreciate the beauty of Lake Tekapo without any cost.

  • Visit Cowan’s Hill Reserve for breathtaking views from all sides.
  • Take in the views of the lake, mountains, and nearby lands.
  • Enjoy a peaceful moment in nature with no entrance fees.

Photograph The Stunning Scenery

Another great free thing to do in Lake Tekapo is photographing the beautiful surroundings. The area is known for its stunning scenery, with the bright blue lake, snow-capped mountains, and clear skies. It’s the perfect place to take photos of nature.

Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just using your phone, the views here are perfect for capturing memories. Best of all, you can do it for free!

  • Take photos of the lake, mountains, and the beautiful sky.
  • Capture the beauty of the area from different spots around the lake.
  • Share your photos or keep them as memories of your trip.

Things to Do in Lake Tekapo in Winter

Relax in Tekapo Springs

When winter comes, one of the best things to do in Lake Tekapo in winter is to visit Tekapo Springs. The hot pools there are perfect for warming up when it’s cold outside. You can relax in the warm water while looking at the snow-covered mountains and the blue lake.

It feels so nice to be in the hot water while the cool winter air is around you. You can also enjoy the spa and other fun activities, making it a great way to spend a relaxing day. Tekapo Springs is a must-visit when you’re in Lake Tekapo during the winter.

  • Relax in the warm hot pools and enjoy the snow-covered views.
  • Warm up in the water while surrounded by the cold winter air.
  • Have a peaceful and relaxing time in the spa.
  • Enjoy the winter beauty of Lake Tekapo from the pools.

Ice Skating

If you like fun winter activities, ice skating at Tekapo Springs is another great choice. During winter, the outdoor ice rink opens up, and you can skate while enjoying the cold air and snowy views. It’s fun for everyone, whether you’re skating for the first time or you’re an expert.

The rink is right next to the lake, and you can look at the snowy mountains while skating. It’s a fun way to enjoy winter with family or friends.

  • Ice skate on the outdoor rink with snowy mountains all around.
  • Have fun skating, no matter how good you are.
  • Enjoy the beautiful winter views while being active and outdoors.

Church of The Good Shepherd

A peaceful thing to do when you visit Lake Tekapo in winter is to go to the Church of the Good Shepherd. The church looks even more beautiful in winter, with the snow-covered mountains in the background and the frozen lake.

The peacefulness of this place makes it perfect for some quiet moments or taking lovely pictures. The snow around the church makes it feel magical, and it’s a great spot to visit if you want to enjoy nature and calm surroundings.

  • Visit the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd with snow around it.
  • Take peaceful moments to relax and enjoy the view.
  • Snap some lovely photos of the church and the snowy landscape.

Romantic Things to Do in Tekapo

Stargazing at the Dark Sky Reserve

One of the best romantic things to do in Tekapo is to enjoy stargazing at the Dark Sky Reserve. Lake Tekapo is known for having some of the clearest, darkest skies in the world. You and your partner can sit together under the stars and enjoy the peaceful, magical atmosphere.

It’s a truly special experience to watch the Milky Way and stars twinkle above you while surrounded by the quiet beauty of the mountains and the lake. It’s the perfect way to share a romantic and unforgettable evening.

  • Stargaze under the clear night sky with your loved one.
  • Enjoy the stunning view of the Milky Way and the stars.
  • Share a peaceful, magical moment surrounded by nature.

Take a Scenic Flight

Another amazing romantic thing to do in Tekapo is to take a scenic flight over the stunning landscapes. From the air, you can see Lake Tekapo, the snow-capped mountains, and nearby glaciers in all their glory. The views are breathtaking and are perfect for making memories with your partner.

Whether it’s your first time flying or you’re a frequent traveler, this romantic experience will leave you in awe of the beauty that surrounds you.

  • Take a scenic flight with your partner over Lake Tekapo and the mountains.
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers and the landscape below.
  • Experience a romantic adventure high above the stunning scenery.

Take a Boat Cruise on Lake Tekapo

For a calm and romantic experience, taking a boat cruise on Lake Tekapo is a great option. You and your partner can enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the sparkling blue water, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and stunning landscapes.

The views from the boat are truly unforgettable, and it’s the perfect way to spend quality time together while soaking in the beauty of the lake.

  • Take a peaceful boat cruise on the lake with your loved one.
  • Enjoy the quiet and beauty of Lake Tekapo’s landscape.
  • Relax together while admiring the snow-covered mountains and blue water.

Photograph The Stunning views

Lake Tekapo is full of stunning views, and photographing the scenery with your partner is one of the best romantic things to do in Tekapo. The lake, mountains, and clear skies provide the perfect backdrop for capturing beautiful memories.

Whether you’re taking photos of the stars, the lake, or the surrounding nature, these moments will be something you can look back on together. It’s a sweet way to create lasting memories of your romantic getaway.

  • Capture beautiful photos with your partner in front of the stunning scenery.
  • Take photos of the lake, mountains, and stars for lasting memories.
  • Enjoy the beauty of nature while making memories together.

Things to Do in Lake Tekapo with Kids

One of the best things to do in Lake Tekapo with kids is visiting Tekapo Springs. This place has hot pools where you and your kids can relax in warm water, especially when the weather is cold. There’s also a snow park for the kids to enjoy, where they can play in the snow and have fun.

Plus, there’s a playground to keep them entertained for hours. It’s a perfect place for families to spend time together, unwind, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

  • Relax in the warm hot pools as a family.
  • Let your kids play in the snow park or enjoy the playground.
  • Spend time together in a peaceful setting with beautiful views.

Go Fishing on Lake Tekapo

If your family enjoys fishing, going fishing on Lake Tekapo is a fun and relaxing activity. The clear waters of the lake are full of fish, and it’s a great way to spend time outdoors with your kids.

You can fish from the shore or even rent a boat to go out on the lake. It’s a simple and enjoyable way to teach your kids how to fish, while also enjoying the peaceful nature around you.

  • Go fishing together on the lake and enjoy the calm surroundings.
  • Teach your kids how to fish and enjoy the outdoors.
  • Rent a boat and spend time together on the lake.

Ice Skating in Winter

If you’re visiting in the winter, ice skating at Tekapo Springs is a great activity for kids. The outdoor rink opens up when the weather gets cold, and kids can enjoy skating with the snow-covered mountains around them. Whether they’re new to skating or already know how the rink is fun for all ages. It’s a great way for the whole family to stay active and enjoy the winter weather.

  • Go ice skating on the outdoor rink at Tekapo Springs.
  • Let your kids enjoy skating while surrounded by beautiful snowy views.
  • Have fun with the family, no matter your skating skills.

Visit the Tekapo Village

For a more laid-back activity, take your kids to Tekapo Village. The village has family-friendly cafes and shops where you can grab a bite to eat or pick up some souvenirs.

It’s a great place to explore and enjoy a relaxed day with the kids. You can walk around the village, visit the shops, and even grab some ice cream for the whole family to enjoy while taking in the beautiful views of Lake Tekapo.

  • Explore the family-friendly cafes and shops in Tekapo Village.
  • Grab a bite to eat or some ice cream and enjoy the views.
  • Walk around the village and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

Cheap Things to Do in Tekapo

Visit The Church of The Good Shepherd

One of the cheap things to do in Tekapo is to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd. It’s free to visit, and you’ll be amazed by the views around it. The church is situated right by Lake Tekapo, with beautiful snowy mountains in the background.

It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for quiet reflection or taking stunning photos. Whether you’re exploring by yourself or with family, it’s a wonderful, no-cost way to enjoy the beauty of Tekapo.

  • Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd for free and enjoy the stunning views.
  • Take photos of the church with the lake and mountains in the background.
  • Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this beautiful spot.

Walk The Peninsula Walkway

If you love nature, walking the Peninsula Walkway is a great option. This easy and scenic walk is free and offers some of the best views of Lake Tekapo and the mountains. It’s not a long walk, so it’s perfect for families or anyone looking for a relaxing way to take in the views. The Peninsula Walkway is a great way to explore Tekapo’s natural beauty without spending any money.

  • Enjoy a free, easy walk with amazing views of the lake and mountains.
  • Take a walk along the Peninsula Walkway.
  • Explore the beauty of Tekapo without spending any money.

Lake Tekapo Regional Park

Another cheap thing to do in Tekapo is to explore the Lake Tekapo Regional Park. Whether you’re walking or cycling, it’s free to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The park is filled with amazing scenery, including fields, hills, and views of the lake.

It’s a peaceful place where you can enjoy nature without having to spend anything. It’s perfect for a relaxing day out with family or friends.

  • Explore the park by walking or cycling for free.
  • Enjoy beautiful views of the lake and nature.
  • Spend time outdoors in a peaceful, natural setting.

See The Lupins in Spring

If you visit Tekapo in the spring, one of the cheap things to do in Tekapo is to see the lupins. These colorful flowers bloom around Lake Tekapo, creating a beautiful and vibrant scene.

Visiting the lake to see the lupins is a low-cost activity that allows you to experience the natural beauty of Tekapo. It’s a great time to enjoy the area without spending much, and the flowers make it even more special.

  • Visit Lake Tekapo in spring to see the colorful lupins.
  • Take pictures of the stunning flowers and the lake.
  • Cost-effectively enjoy the beauty of nature

Nearby Places to Visit in Lake Tekapo

When you’re in Tekapo, there are some great places nearby to visit. Lake Pukaki is just a short drive away. It has beautiful blue water and great views of Mount Cook. It’s a calm place to enjoy nature and take pictures.

Another nearby spot is Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. This park has the tallest mountain in New Zealand, Mount Cook. You can enjoy walks, see glaciers, and look at amazing views of mountains and valleys.

Also, nearby is Twizel, a small town where you can relax and do fun outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Lake Pukaki – Bluewater and great views of Mount Cook.
  • Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park – Walk, see glaciers and enjoy mountain views.
  • Twizel – A small town for fishing, hiking, and relaxing.

Places to stay After Your Visit

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Lake Tekapo, there are some great options for all budgets. Lake Tekapo Village Motel is a good, affordable place with nice views of the lake and easy access to local spots. You can read this article about lake Tekapo accommodation.

If you want something fancy, Peppers Bluewater Resort is a great choice with beautiful rooms and views. Tekapo Heights is a peaceful place with modern rooms and amazing lake views, perfect for families or couples.

The Godley Hotel is a simple, comfortable option right by the lake. For those on a budget, Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park offers cheap stays with great views of the area.

Best Accommodations in Lake Tekapo:

  • Lake Tekapo Village Motel – Affordable and close to attractions.
  • Peppers Bluewater Resort – Fancy stay with stunning views.
  • Tekapo Heights – Peaceful and modern with great lake views.
  • The Godley Hotel – Simple and comfortable by the lake.
  • Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park – Budget-friendly with beautiful views.

Conclusion

Things to do in Lake Tekapo are fun and exciting for everyone. Whether you like to relax by the lake, enjoy nature, or explore the mountains, there’s something for everyone. You can visit beautiful places like the Church of the Good Shepherd or walk around the lake. Best of all, many things to do are free or cheap, so you can enjoy Tekapo without spending a lot matter who you’re with, Lake Tekapo is a great place to visit.

For more travel tips and ideas, visit discovertourplaces.com.

FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Lake Tekapo?

The best time to visit is during spring (October to December) and summer (December to February) when the weather is warm. Winter (June to August) is great if you like snow and cold weather.

Are there any guided tours available in Lake Tekapo?

Yes, there are guided tours available. You can join tours to explore the area, learn about the history, or go stargazing.

Can you swim in Lake Tekapo?

Yes, you can swim in Lake Tekapo! The water is cold, but many people enjoy a refreshing swim on hot days.

Is there public transportation available in Lake Tekapo?

Lake Tekapo has limited public transportation. It’s better to drive or rent a car to get around easily.

What are the nearby towns or cities to visit when in Lake Tekapo?

Nearby towns include Twizel, Fairlie, and Mount Cook Village. They are all close to Tekapo and offer more places to explore.

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