Day Trip: Lake Tekapo to Mt Cook National Park

Church of the Good Shepherd

This iconic stone church, built in 1935, is one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand. It's a symbol of Lake Tekapo and offers a glimpse into the area's pastoral history. The church is open to the public and features beautiful stained-glass windows and a small museum.

Lake Tekapo

The turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo are a result of fine rock flour suspended in the water, creating a stunning and unique color. The lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities. The surrounding mountains and lupin fields add to the breathtaking scenery.

Mount John

Mount John is a popular spot for hiking and offers some of the best views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains. At the summit, you'll find an observatory and a café, making it a great place to spend a few hours. The hike is moderate and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip.

Tekapo Springs

Tekapo Springs is a family-friendly attraction featuring hot pools, a waterslide, and a café. The hot pools are heated by geothermal energy and offer a relaxing way to unwind after a day of exploring. The waterslide is a hit with kids, and the café serves delicious food and drinks.

Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve

This vast area, which includes Lake Tekapo, is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. The reserve is recognized for its exceptional dark skies, offering a stunning view of the Milky Way and other celestial bodies. There are guided stargazing tours available, as well as an observatory on Mount John.

Lamb Rump

A tender and flavorful cut of lamb, often grilled or roasted and served with seasonal vegetables. New Zealand is famous for its high-quality lamb, and Lake Tekapo is no exception.

Green-Lipped Mussels

A delicacy native to New Zealand, these mussels are known for their large size and distinctive green-lipped shells. They are often steamed or grilled and served with a variety of sauces.

Hokey Pokey Ice Cream

A popular New Zealand ice cream flavor made with vanilla ice cream and crunchy honeycomb toffee pieces. It's a sweet and crunchy treat that's perfect for enjoying after a day of exploring.

Feijoa Smoothie

A refreshing and tropical smoothie made with feijoas, a fruit native to South America but widely grown in New Zealand. The smoothie is often blended with yogurt and honey for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Language

• Official: English, Māori
• Widely spoken: English
• English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12 (New Zealand Standard Time) or GMT+13 (New Zealand Daylight Time, observed from late September to early April)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

• Christchurch International Airport • 240 km (150 miles)

Christchurch

Local shuttle services are available for transport within the village and to nearby attractions. These services are convenient but may have limited schedules.

Available • Apps: Local taxi companies

Car, Bike, Scooter

Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is home to New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook. The park offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and a variety of adventure activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Twizel is a small town located on the shores of Lake Pukaki, offering a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, kayaking, and cycling. The town is also a gateway to the Ahuriri Conservation Park, which offers stunning hiking trails and scenic views.

Fairlie is a small town located in the heart of the Mackenzie Basin, offering a glimpse into the area's pastoral history. The town is home to several historic buildings, including the Fairlie Museum and the Fairlie Heritage Museum, as well as a variety of shops and cafés.