Motorhomes Caravans & Destinations
TIME OUT IN TEKAPO
Lake Tekapo is a turquoise gem in the legendary Mackenzie region’s crown, and with our borders closed to international visitors, now is the perfect time to enjoy this beautiful area.
Located at 710 metres above sea level, Tekapo’s alpine village overlooks Lake Tekapo – the ninth largest lake in New Zealand at 87sq km. The area is a photographer’s paradise and a must-see destination for every visitor to the Mackenzie region.
From the dazzling displays of lupins in summer, to the snow-covered alps in winter, every season provides a different view of the awe-inspiring scenery. Here’s a quick look at just some of the activities, beautiful places to stay, and great places to eat and drink while you’re there.
STARGAZING
The Mackenzie region is home to the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, and the stars are simply breathtaking. You can stargaze by yourself, but if you want to learn more about the night skies and use telescopes, there are two business that run stargazing experiences.
Silver River Stargazing operates small tours on 25,000 acres of farmland near Tekapo. They also offer astrophotography tours. Tekapo Star Gazing is the only hot pools and stargazing experience in New Zealand, combining an introduction to the night skies with telescopes followed by a relaxing soak in a 38oc hot pool. The tour operates from the renowned facilities of Tekapo Springs.
SKI AND SNOWBOARD
Tekapo has two ski areas that have a laid-back vibe, uncrowded terrain and some of the best views in the world. Mount Dobson Ski Area is 45 minutes from Fairlie and provides an awesome day out with trails for all abilities, including a huge learners’ area with all-day sun. Their Foote Rest Café serves great coffee and the famous Fairlie Bakehouse pies. Roundhill Ski Area is a 35-minute drive from Tekapo and has breathtaking views of Aoraki Mount Cook, the Southern Alps, and Lake Tekapo. There are a wide variety of trails as well as Australasia’s biggest vertical drop at 783 metres. The Base Lodge café and Von Brown Hut are both licensed and provide quality refreshments.
You can also fly onto, and ski, the Tasman Glacier, or go backcountry ski touring in the Two Thumb Range, Liebig
Range or on the glaciers of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
ALPS 2 OCEAN CYCLE TRAIL
The alternative start of this epic cycling trail begins in Tekapo and is an easy to intermediate grade along the 54 km to Twizel. The section by Lake Pūkaki is particularly scenic, with Aoraki/mount Cook visible on a clear day.
AORAKI/MOUNT COOK
A visit to the Mackenzie region isn’t complete without a pilgrimage to New Zealand’s tallest mountain, the mighty Aoraki/mount Cook. It’s a 90-minute drive from Tekapo and offers many walking tracks which are suitable for people of all abilities.
The Hooker Valley track is one of the most popular, with spectacular mountain views, alpine streams and impressive swing bridges.
Aoraki/mount Cook Village has good cafes and restaurants as well as an excellent DOC centre with interesting information and displays about this Te Wāhipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area.
CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD
This iconic place of worship, on the shores of Lake Tekapo, was opened in 1935 and is the sole church in the township. The majestic setting attracts visitors from all over the world. It’s a beautiful spot to simply soak up the views, feel connected to nature, and to take some lovely photographs.
FLIGHTSEEING
See the Mackenzie region in all its glory from above. A scenic flight affords spectacular views of this unique environment, from snowy mountains to braided rivers and numerous glaciers.
There are variety of scenic flight options depending on your itinerary and budget.
Businesses operate from Lake
Tekapo, Pūkaki (Twizel), Glentanner and Aoraki/mount Cook.
DINE AND DRINK
Tekapo has many fine eateries to suit all tastes. For breakfast, try The Greedy Cow for great coffee and delicious cabinet food, or enjoy the views from Jack Rabbit, the restaurant at the Godley Hotel. For dinner, try Kohan for authentic Japanese food, Our Dog Friday for burgers or Blue Lake for pizzas and craft beer.
STAY
Lakefront Lodge and Backpackers/ Holiday Park is set on the shores of Lake Tekapo, with magnificent views across the water to the mountains. It’s ideal for motorhomers, with kitchen and bathroom facilities, drinking water, dump station, laundry and barbecues.
There is a New Zealand Motor Caravan Association park available in Tekapo for NZMCA members.