Lake Tekapo Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Lake Tekapo, located in the Canterbury region of New Zealand, is a stunning destination renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The lake itself is a mesmerizing shade of turquoise, thanks to the fine rock flour that is suspended in the water from the surrounding glaciers. This unique feature makes Lake Tekapo a must-see for visitors seeking picture-perfect landscapes.

One of the most iconic landmarks in the area is the Church of the Good Shepherd, which sits on the shores of Lake Tekapo. This charming stone church offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can also take a moment to admire the bronze sheepdog statue that stands proudly outside the church, paying homage to the region's rich agricultural heritage.

For those seeking outdoor adventures, Lake Tekapo offers a range of activities to suit every interest. From scenic walks and hiking trails to stargazing tours at the nearby Mount John Observatory, there is no shortage of ways to immerse oneself in the natural wonders of the area. In the winter months, the nearby ski fields provide opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports, making Lake Tekapo a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Alternative names: Elevation: 2333 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 44°0'24"S, 170°28'48"E

Location

CanterburyNew Zealand

ContactAdd

Social media

Add

Lake Tekapo Top Attractions

Lake Tekapo Attractions - What to See and Explore

Lake Tekapo offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Church of the Good Shepherd, Mount John University Observatory, Sheep Dog Memorial. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

View point • Church
Church of the Good Shepherd
Nestled on the shores of the turquoise-hued Lake Tekapo, amidst the rugged beauty of New Zealand's South Island, stands the Church of the Good Shepherd. This quaint stone church is not only a place of worship but has become an iconic landmark and a must-visit for...
Scenic walking areas • Observation decks and towers • Observatories and planetariums
Mount John University Observatory
University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory, previously known as Mt John University Observatory, is New Zealand's premier astronomical research observatory.
44°0'13"S • 170°29'2"E
Sheep Dog Memorial
Memorial

Day trips

Lake Tekapo – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Lake Tekapo, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Lake Matheson (Fox Glacier), West Coast Wildlife Centre (Franz Josef), Mount Potts.

47 milesNW
Nature, Natural attraction, Lake
Lake Matheson, Fox Glacier
Nestled amid the rugged beauty of New Zealand's South Island, Lake Matheson is a pristine glacial lake located near the town of Fox Glacier. Known for its stunning reflective waters, this natural wonder offers visitors a mirror-like view of the country's highest peaks...
45 milesN
Nature and wildlife, Park, Zoo
West Coast Wildlife Centre, Franz Josef
Nestled in the heart of the rugged West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, the West Coast Wildlife Centre stands as a beacon of conservation and education in the quaint town of Franz Josef. This unique facility is dedicated to the protection and study of some of New...
41 milesNE
Winter sport, Ski area
Mount Potts
Mount Potts, situated in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, is a lesser-known gem among the country's ski areas. This remote and rugged alpine environment offers a unique skiing experience, far from the crowded commercial resorts.
47 milesSE
Specialty museum, Museum
South Canterbury Museum, Timaru
South Canterbury Museum is a museum located in Timaru, New Zealand and owned by the Timaru District Council. Its collections include natural history specimens, Maori artefacts, European settlement and recent social history and documentary history.
16 milesNE
Winter sport, Ski area
Roundhill Ski Area
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's majestic Southern Alps, Roundhill Ski Area offers a quintessential alpine experience for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. This family-friendly ski resort is renowned for its wide, open slopes and breathtaking views of Mount...