Lake Tekapo Archives - Mackenzie Region, New Zealand

Lake Tekapo Farm Tours

Written by Jason on June 18, 2024.

Raise your hand if you’re ready for an off-road farm experience like no other! Established by a long-standing local family, Lake Tekapo Farm Tours focuses on providing an authentic Kiwi experience in the heart of the Mackenzie Region. Enjoy a maximum of 11 guests on their high country guided farm tour that takes you on an exciting adventure, across two amazing high country farms; the historic Mt John & Balmoral stations. Enjoy breathtaking views and epic landscapes (photographers delight!), with a variety of farmyard animals and the chance to explore remote areas on this vast 25,000-acre...

Silver River Stargazing & Astrophotography Tours

Written by Jason on May 21, 2024.

Silver River™ Stargazing is Tekapo’s leading small group 360° stargazing tour. Are you ready to have your mind blown? Don’t say they didn’t warn you! Come and discover the wonders of the night sky on their 1.5-hour experience; including 60 mins under the stars with one of their epic guides. They use telescopes and special astro-lasers for easy naked-eye viewing. After they take you on a journey through the night sky, pose for a photo. You get a digital copy of that image so you can share with your family and friends, and of course on social media. Astrophotography Tours Are you looking for Tekapo’s...

Tekapo Star Gazing

Written by Jason on May 20, 2024.

Wonder at the dazzling beauty of millions of stars in some of the clearest, darkest night skies in the world! The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is the largest Dark Sky Reserve in the Southern Hemisphere. Let them take you on a journey of exploration to discover the unique features of the southern skies! The ultimate in stellar relaxation, Tekapo Star Gazing offers the only guided hot pools and stargazing experience in New Zealand. The tour operates from the Tekapo Springs. This unique tour combines the stunning Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve with their soul-warming...

Cairns Alpine Resort

Written by Jason on May 6, 2024.

The Cairns Alpine Resort offers accommodation unlike anything else you’ll find in Lake Tekapo. Your hosts, the Simpson family, have been in Lake Tekapo for three generations and love to share this place with their guests. At The Cairns, you’ll stay the local way, whether you’re travelling as a couple, a family or a larger group. From the restored historic Mt John Station Homestead to the modern, elegant Alpine Lodges, there’s something perfect for everyone. During your stay, take time to enjoy the resort’s golf course and farm animal petting zoo. Alpine Lodges The Alpine Lodges are elegant and...

Bunker House

Written by Jason on May 5, 2024.

Cradled between the stars and the expansive Mackenzie Basin lies a retreat unlike any other. Soak yourself in luxury as you witness the last rays of sunlight reflect off the majestic snow-capped peaks and gaze over the ever-changing landscape in all her nuanced beauty. The Bunker House has two guest bedrooms, large log burner, outdoor hot tub and full kitchen. Owned and operated by local people with a deep knowledge and respect of Te Manahuna. The property is a 15-minute drive from Lake Tekapo. There is guided check-in & guests must have a car to get around during their stay.

Tekapo Adventures

Written by Jason on April 30, 2024.

Scenic 4WD tours offering guests the opportunity to experience the outstanding natural landscapes of the Mackenzie Region, accessed through private high country stations near Lake Tekapo. Journey with them and their professional drivers in comfortable Land Rover Defenders, offering you access to private and remote high country wilderness you wouldn’t otherwise be able to experience. Discover Lake Tekapo’s backcountry beyond the lakefront for impressive natural beauty, unique photo opportunities, an escape from the crowds and an experience of the real Mackenzie high country. Their scenic 4WD...

Mackenzie Helicopters

Written by Jason on April 29, 2024.

Sip, savour, feast. From whisky huts to wild beaches, New Zealand’s highest mountains, longest glacier, iconic lakes… Extraordinary experiences, outstanding locations, and passionate, hospitable locals are the heart of Mackenzie Helicopters’ tourism operations. Depart from their Lake Tekapo base on an exclusive helicopter experience or a spectacular scenic flight in an awe-inspiring landscape: Lake Tekapo, the Mackenzie Region, Aoraki/Mount Cook and the West Coast. Experiences range from a 25-minute scenic flight over the Mackenzie to bespoke private charters with alpine and beach landings,...

Hunt Tekapo

Written by Jason on April 14, 2024.

Join a hunting safari on 50,000 acres of private land in Lake Tekapo. You will learn about gun safety, land management & pest control on a working high-country farm. There are free-range animals including red and fallow deer, Himalayan tahr, chamois, wallabies, rabbits and hares.

Lake Tekapo Petting Zoo

Written by Jason on April 4, 2024.

Lake Tekapo Petting Zoo, located in the heart of Lake Tekapo township, the farmyard petting zoo offers hands-on animal encounters. Come and say hello to the Merino sheep, kune-kune pigs, lambs, alpacas, cattle and rabbits. Feed some of these animals and have a close-up session with them! The farm animals are very friendly so you can get great pictures with each of them. Please book online as a limited number of people are allowed per day.

4WD Tekapo

Written by Jason on April 4, 2024.

Embark on a thrilling 4WD adventure with local guides in Lake Tekapo. Explore Mt Hay Station, a century-old 25,000-acre family farm, while navigating challenging 4WD tracks, and witnessing stunning high country views. This guided small group 4WD experience includes driving to the summit of Mt Hay, through several water crossings to Phantom Lagoon, and along the base of the Two Thumbs range to Boundary Creek Hut, providing incredible views and an exhilarating journey! Listen as the tour guide describes life on a working Merino Sheep Station, and spot the farm residents and a variety of bird life...

Fish Tekapo

Written by Jason on April 3, 2024.

Some of the best fishing in the world is in Lake Tekapo with both trout and salmon in abundance. The Tekapo Hydro Canal provides the opportunity to catch world record-size fish. The surrounding lakes and rivers provide the opportunity to catch trout and salmon in a place of amazing scenery.

Hike Tekapo

Written by Jason on April 3, 2024.

Here in Lake Tekapo, Hike Tekapo are offering fully guided hikes in three unique locations on private property. These three different locations range from 3 hr to 8 hr, all including a 4WD experience! Refreshments and snacks are supplied. The land has plenty of native plants and animals and the guides enjoy sharing their knowledge of the area with guests. They provide an experience that will leave a lasting impression on you. Their guides are highly trained and skilled in providing an exceptional hiking experience. Since the property is private, they can arrange tours at short notice.

Tekapo Restaurant & Bar

Written by Jason on March 28, 2024.

At Tekapo Restaurant & Bar, they serve a great range of food featuring fresh ingredients and masterful preparation by their culinary team. Whether you are ordering from their à la carte menu for a drink at the bar or dining in with their great buffet selections, it’s a perfect place for dining with friends, family and functions. Over 100 seats and a private room are available. They also have a variety of tap beer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks to choose from at the restaurant. They’re excited to bring something new to the Lake Tekapo community and they look forward to serving...

Haka House Lake Tekapo

Written by Jason on March 27, 2024.

Discover a home away from home at Haka House Lake Tekapo, where uninterrupted views of Lake Tekapo and the majestic mountains redefine your stay. In their shared rooms, Haka House Lake Tekapo goes beyond the basics, offering amenities such as bedside USB C & A charging, individual lighting, privacy curtains, and lockable storage – all complemented by the inclusion of cosy bed linen. If privacy is your priority, their private rooms with ensuite facilities present a personalized haven, featuring a wardrobe, bar fridge, kettle, hair dryer, TV, and the convenience of USB A & C charging points. Thoughtfully...

BeSpoke Bike Tours

Written by Jason on November 2, 2023.

BeSpoke Bike Tours can create an itinerary for you to experience and enjoy the stark beauty of the Mackenzie Region by bicycle. Absorb the stunning views of the Southern Alps and the breathtaking aqua-blue glacial lakes at your own leisurely pace. Take advantage of the quiet Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail canal and lakeside trails; cycle the famous Mackenzie Pass to Burkes Pass. Contact them to help tailor a trip for you to explore this wonderful countryside. They offer: Bike Repairs Bike and gear rental Tailored tours from half-day to multi-day Alps 2 Ocean (A2O) support Luggage Transfers Shuttle...

Chameleon Stargazing

Written by Jason on June 29, 2023.

A budget and family-friendly stargazing tour in an almost zero light pollution location in Lake Tekapo. They customise each tour to meet the individual interests of participants. Experienced local astronomy guides operate at their stargazing site. Their 9.25 inch telescope will help you to wander through the night sky. Chameleon Stargazing offers comfortable outdoor furniture, hot chocolate, a fire bowl with roasted marshmallows and individual or group photos under the stars, only $75 per child (under 16, free under five years) & $99 per adult. Book a private tour for up to 14 people for...

Alpine Recreation

Written by Jason on May 25, 2023.

Alpine Recreation are a family-owned and operated mountain guiding company and offer unique year-round alpine adventures with exclusive access to the most stunning backcountry locations in the Southern Alps. Explore far from the beaten track to remote mountain locations, avoid the crowds and rest assured that you’re in good hands, as Alpine Recreation is safety audit certified by AdventureMark. Small group sizes ensure you’ll be well looked after and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime! Alpine Recreation are alpine specialists and their friendly and professional IFMGA and NZMGA qualified mountain...

Mantra Lake Tekapo

Written by Jason on January 27, 2023.

Mantra Lake Tekapo has been designed to settle peacefully into its natural alpine setting, with a cleverly landscaped exterior and an interior that gives you that home-away-from-home feeling. With spacious self-contained apartments, each offering three bedrooms, you’ll find everything you’ll need in the fully equipped kitchens, two and a half bathrooms with underfloor heating and quality furnishings. Enjoy your private courtyard, garage and other facilities such as a swimming pool, hot tub and entertainment area complete with a barbeque and huge outdoor fireplace.

Grand Suites Tekapo

Written by Jason on January 26, 2023.

Grand Suites Tekapo is the latest luxury suites in the Mackenzie Region, providing a unique high-quality accommodation experience. Each room offers views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains. In-house guests can enjoy continental breakfast, smart TV, and free high-speed Wi-Fi. The motel is only 300 meters from Lake Tekapo Village Centre and the shore of Lake Tekapo. Only a one-hour drive from Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, and three hours from Christchurch or Queenstown.

Helicopter Line

Written by Jason on January 18, 2023.

Scenic Flights Take a breathtaking scenic helicopter flight with the Helicopter Line and experience magnificent views of the pristine alpine environment of Aoraki/Mount Cook World Heritage Park. Fly past vast snowfields, glaciers and New Zealand’s highest peak, Aoraki Mount Cook. Enjoy close up views that would otherwise be restricted to the most adventurous mountain climber. Land high above the glaciers and step out onto a carpet of snow to snap that special photograph. This is an experience not to be missed! The Helicopter Line operates from its Glentanner base close to Aoraki/Mount Cook Village...

Air Safaris

Written by Jason on January 18, 2023.

Explore New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine scenery, from snowy mountain ranges and turquoise lakes, to epic glaciers and amazing ice fields flowing through West Coast rainforests to the Tasman Sea! The Grand Traverse is New Zealand’s premier scenic flight, so you can go further and see more. Highlights include Aoraki/Mount Cook; Lake Tekapo; the Southern Alps mountain range; Tasman, Franz and Fox glaciers; unique braided rivers; golden tussocklands and beautiful glacial lakes. Why fly with Air Safaris? Flights from Lake Tekapo, Glentanner Park, Aoraki/Mount Cook, and Franz Josef. Fixed-wing...