Things to do in Lake Tekapo

Activities, attractions and tours
Church of the Good Shepherd showing a church or cathedral and night scenes

Explore thousands of activities with free cancellation and no added fees.

Design your experience with airport transfers, excursions, day tours & more.

Get an insider's look in what to book before you travel.

Top places to visit

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.
Learn more
Lake Pukaki which includes 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.
Learn more
Tekapo Springs featuring landscape views and snow

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.
Learn more
Church of the Good Shepherd featuring farmland, mountains and a lake or waterhole

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.
Learn more
Mount John Observatory showing 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.
Learn more
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.
Learn more
Sheepdog Statue which includes a statue or sculpture

Popular places to visit

Image for Tekapo Springs

Tekapo Springs

4/5(4 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
Image for Church of the Good Shepherd

Church of the Good Shepherd

4.5/5(12 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
Image for Sheepdog Statue

Sheepdog Statue

4.5/5(9 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
Image for Dark Sky Project

Dark Sky Project

Explore the campus of Dark Sky Project during your stay in Lake Tekapo. Wander the lakeside in this quaint area.

Dark Sky Project
Image for The Cairns Golf Course - Lake Tekapo

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
Image for Cowans Hill Walkway

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 family-friendly area.

Cowans Hill Walkway