Lake Tekapo
South Island, New Zealand
Daily Budget
~NZ$115
~US$55 · per day
Best Months
Climate
Tropical / Summer
Vibe
Off the beaten track
Overview
Lake Tekapo is a small village on the shores of a glacial lake whose impossibly turquoise water reflects the surrounding Southern Alps. The area is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve — the largest dark sky reserve in the world and the first to receive Gold status from the International Dark Sky Association. Whether you come for the stars, the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, or the lupins that carpet the lakeshore in November-December, Lake Tekapo is one of the most photogenic stops in New Zealand.
Editor's Pick
Lake Tekapo stands out for: World-class stargazing in the largest Gold-rated Dark Sky Reserve on earth; Stunning turquoise glacial lake with Southern Alps backdrop; Iconic Church of the Good Shepherd (one of NZ's most photographed spots).
Things to Do
View all 8 activitiesTop Hostels
View all 4 hostels
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Daily (NZD) | Daily (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | NZ$56 | $27 |
| Food | NZ$25 | $12 |
| Transport | NZ$6 | $3 |
| Activities | NZ$56 | $27 |
| Total | ~NZ$115 | ~$55 |
Hostels
4 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
8 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Lake Tekapo?
- Budget around NZ$115 NZD (~US$55) per day in Lake Tekapo, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Lake Tekapo?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Lake Tekapo are Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Lake Tekapo?
- Top-rated hostels in Lake Tekapo include Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park, Tailor Made Tekapo Backpackers, Haka House Lake Tekapo. Prices for a dorm bed typically start from NZ$44 per night.
- What are the top things to do in Lake Tekapo?
- Must-do activities in Lake Tekapo include Day trip to Aoraki/Mount Cook and hike the Hooker Valley Track, Kayak or paddleboard on the turquoise lake, Photograph the Church of the Good Shepherd at sunrise or sunset. There are 8 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.
