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Stunning night sky with Milky Way over Lake Tekapo town

Explore

Lake & Village Highlights

Discover the central attractions right along the shoreline.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Most visitors start their day exploring the immediate lakefront and Tekapo Village. These central spots are easy to reach and require minimal driving.

You can walk between the historic monuments on the shore or drive a few minutes to the regional park tracks and hot pools.

Astronomical observatories under a starry night sky with Milky Way
Photo: tour listing on Viator
01

Church of the Good Shepherd

15-30 mins$5 NZD donation

This 1935 stone church frames the glacial lake and mountains through its altar window. It gets crowded during the day, so arrive early in the morning. Entry requires a $5 NZD donation via a tap-to-donate station.

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Silhouette of an observatory dome against a starry night sky
Photo: tour listing on Viator
02

Sheepdog Memorial

10 minsPhoto stop

This bronze statue stands near the church right on the lake edge. It honors the working collie dogs that helped establish the Mackenzie Country farms. It makes for a quick and easy photo stop on your shoreline walk.

Black Mercedes tour van parked with mountains in the background
Photo: tour listing on Viator
03

Tekapo Springs

2-3 hoursAdvance booking needed

This recreation complex features hot pools, an ice skating rink, and snow tubing. The pools overlook the lake and surrounding high country. Book your soak in advance, especially for the guided stargazing evening sessions.

Vibrant lupins blooming by a blue lake with snow-capped mountains
Photo: tour listing on Viator
04

Takapō Regional Park

1-2 hours24 km of tracks

This 165-hectare park provides 24 kilometers of walking and cycling tracks. You will find picnic spots and a dog park spread across the grounds. It is a great option for a leisurely walk away from the busy main tourist strip.

Book a Stargazing Soak

Tour photo
Tekapo Star Gazing Tour - Soak in the Stars1 h 30 min 4.3 (121)from $104
hot pools stargazingfrom $104 on Viator
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