What to do in Tekapo

Activities, attractions and tours

A stone church with a bell tower, surrounded by dry grass and mountains in the background.
A desert landscape with mountains in the background and a body of water in the foreground.
A person crouching by a calm lake at sunset with mountains in the background.
A dining area with large windows overlooking a mountainous landscape.
A man fishing by a calm river with mountains in the background.

Things to do

Lake Tekapo: Single Day Pass for Hot Pools

Lake Tekapo: Single Day Multiple Entry Pass for Hot Pools

Rp407.478
per adult
Lake Tekapo: Single Day Multiple Entry Pass for Hot Pools
Picture 8 for Activity Lake Tekapo: Stargazing Experience

Lake Tekapo: Stargazing Experience

Rp1.324.302
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Lake Tekapo: Stargazing Experience
Dark Sky Indoor Maori Cultural Astronomy Experience

Dark Sky Indoor Maori Cultural Astronomy Experience

Rp616.513
per adult
Dark Sky Indoor Maori Cultural Astronomy Experience
Silver River Stargazing Experience in Lake Tekapo

Silver River Stargazing Experience in Lake Tekapo

Rp1.212.246
per adult
1500050% of travellers recommend
Silver River Stargazing Experience in Lake Tekapo
Mt Cook to Queenstown Small Group Tour

Mt Cook to Queenstown Small Group Tour (One-Way)

Rp1.841.432
per adult
Mt Cook to Queenstown Small Group Tour (One-Way)
Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight & Alpine Landing

Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight & Alpine Landing

Rp4.044.753
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight & Alpine Landing
The Milky Way

Chameleon Stargazing Shared Tour

Rp1.324.302
per adult
Chameleon Stargazing Shared Tour
Mt Cook Day Tour From Tekapo

Mt Cook Day Tour From Tekapo (Small Group, Carbon Neutral)

Rp3.045.894
per adult
Mt Cook Day Tour From Tekapo (Small Group, Carbon Neutral)
Picture 1 for Activity Lake Tekapo: 1.5-Hour Hot Pools & Stargazing Experience

Lake Tekapo: 90-minute Hot Pools & Stargazing Experience

Rp1.925.331
per adult
Lake Tekapo: 90-minute Hot Pools & Stargazing Experience
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Top places to visit

1. Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park is a fantastic place to enjoy New Zealand’s winter, with skiing and snow sports, hot springs, and snow-capped mountains and glaciers sparkling in the sun. During summer, water sports and hiking are popular. Enjoy the scenic beauty while hiking near mountain peaks, beech forests and a landscape carved by glacial movement.
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A snow-capped mountain range with a turquoise lake in the foreground.

2. 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.
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A mountain range with snow-capped peaks, a dense forest, and a turquoise lake.

3. Tekapo Springs

Soak in soothing heated pools or pamper yourself with a remedial treatment at the Tekapo Springs spa.
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A swimming pool with a mountainous backdrop.

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.
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A mountainous landscape with two large domed observatories and a building in the foreground.

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.
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A skier on a snow-covered slope with a rocky cliff and a distant lake.

What to do in Tekapo

Stay near popular Tekapo attractions

A mountainous landscape with two large domed observatories and a building in the foreground.

Mount John Observatory

9.0/10 (338 reviews)
Take an evening tour to see the wonders of the night sky or visit during the day to enjoy the stunning views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains.
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Frequently asked questions

Is Tekapo worth visiting?
Tekapo has a unique mix of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or regional cuisine, there's plenty you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Tekapo?
Mount John Observatory is a great place to begin your getaway adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and retail options in Tekapo while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Tekapo?
Plan a day at Mount John Observatory and discover why it's rated as the top tourist attraction near Tekapo.
Is three days enough to stay in Tekapo?
Three days in Tekapo is enough time to discover the nearby sights. Many travellers love Mount John Observatory and Lake Tekapō Regional Park, so why not check them out while you're in the area?
What are some activities to do in Tekapo with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Tekapo with kids.
What to do in Tekapo for adults?
Adults of all ages will find lots of things to do in Tekapo. Whether you're into local cuisine, outdoor pursuits or just love discovering new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Tekapo?
You won't have to go out of your way to find free things to do in Tekapo. Just ask a local tour guide and they'll have suggestions for places and activities you can experience with no costs involved. One free option for your itinerary is Lake Tekapō Regional Park.