Things to Do in Lake Tekapo
8 activities and experiences for backpackers.
Day trip to Aoraki/Mount Cook and hike the Hooker Valley Track
Day trip to Aoraki/Mount Cook and hike the Hooker Valley Track (3 hours return, free, one of NZ's best short hikes)
Kayak or paddleboard on the turquoise lake
Kayak or paddleboard on the turquoise lake
Photograph the Church of the Good Shepherd at sunrise or sunset
Photograph the Church of the Good Shepherd at sunrise or sunset (free; arrive early to avoid crowds)
See the lupins in bloom along the lakeshore
See the lupins in bloom along the lakeshore (November-December only)
Soak in Tekapo Springs hot pools with mountain views
Soak in Tekapo Springs hot pools with mountain views ($28 NZD; add stargazing combo for $75 NZD)
Stargaze at the Dark Sky Reserve
Stargaze at the Dark Sky Reserve (free with naked eye; guided tours at Mt John Observatory from $90 NZD with Dark Sky Project)
Try Silver River Stargazing for a small-group astronomy experience
Try Silver River Stargazing for a small-group astronomy experience
Walk to the summit of Mt John for 360-degree views of the lake and mountains
Walk to the summit of Mt John for 360-degree views of the lake and mountains (1.5 hours return, free)