A GIANT POOL OF GATORADE
11 JANUARY 2023
Lake Tekapo
Let's Start With The Best Seat In The House
Lake Tekapo is a beautiful, crystal-clear lake located in the stunning South Island of New Zealand. It's known for its bright blue waters, which are caused by glacial runoff that gives the lake its signature color. It's hard to believe that it's not the bluest lake in New Zealand - that award goes to its neighbour, Lake Pukaki.
Let's be real, the main reason people visit Lake Tekapo is for the Instagram-worthy photos. Just imagine posing with the lake in the background, pretending to be all deep and contemplative, with a clever caption like "finding inner peace at Lake Tekapo #blessed #lakelife #soulsearching."
But seriously, the lake is also a great spot for outdoor activities like hiking, boating, fishing, kayaking and if you're brave enough in summer - swimming!
If you want the best views of the lake (and 360-degree views of the Mackenzie Basin!), then Mt John is the place to be. Imagine you're standing at the top, feeling like a true mountain conqueror, and you look out to see something that's so stunningly beautiful, like a giant pool of the most inviting blue Gatorade you've ever seen. The view from Mount John is an experience you will never forget and will leave you with memories and beautiful photographs and some vuuuuury jealous friends and some Instagram-worthy posts.
There is a track next to the Tekapo Hot Springs that takes you up and around the mountain (it's an 8.9km track) or you can drive right up to the summit from Friday - Monday.
Read our full blog on Mt John here.
Let's be real, the main reason people visit Lake Tekapo is for the Instagram-worthy photos. Just imagine posing with the lake in the background, pretending to be all deep and contemplative, with a clever caption like "finding inner peace at Lake Tekapo #blessed #lakelife #soulsearching."
But seriously, the lake is also a great spot for outdoor activities like hiking, boating, fishing, kayaking and if you're brave enough in summer - swimming!
If you want the best views of the lake (and 360-degree views of the Mackenzie Basin!), then Mt John is the place to be. Imagine you're standing at the top, feeling like a true mountain conqueror, and you look out to see something that's so stunningly beautiful, like a giant pool of the most inviting blue Gatorade you've ever seen. The view from Mount John is an experience you will never forget and will leave you with memories and beautiful photographs and some vuuuuury jealous friends and some Instagram-worthy posts.
There is a track next to the Tekapo Hot Springs that takes you up and around the mountain (it's an 8.9km track) or you can drive right up to the summit from Friday - Monday.
Read our full blog on Mt John here.
View of the Tekapo town
On sunny days, you'll be greeted with an incredibly blue Lake Tekapo
View of Pines Beach which has the best spot for swimming (more about that later in this blog)
Mt John offers incredible 360-degree views across the whole Mackenzie Basin
Wait, There's A BEACH At The Lake?
Some lakes have sandy shores because of the geology of the surrounding area. Sand can be deposited in a lake through a variety of natural processes, such as erosion, sediment transport, and glacial activity.
We were surprised to see sand at Lake Tekapo and it turned out to be the perfect place for the kids to go swimming because the rocks in other areas can be sharp to walk on! The best area we found out was at Pines Beach (well, we went a little to the left) and the sand was so soft and the kids really enjoyed it. The other cool thing about this area is there are loads of trees dotted around the shoreline, so you get shade and privacy.
We spent a lot of time here as it was only 5-minutes from the Tekapo shops and the girls made sandcastles and even floating castles on their boogie boards for their barbies, which from the look on the barbies faces, they enjoyed! The water gradually got deeper (unlike Kai Iwi Lakes in Northland with the sudden drop!) which is perfect for the kiddies. Lath braved the cold, but I only went up to my thighs - toooo cold for me! Brrr.
We saw a few families of ducks swimming around, minding their own business, Mama duck showing off how super dee duper cute her ducklings were. We don't blame her; they really were super cute!
We were surprised to see sand at Lake Tekapo and it turned out to be the perfect place for the kids to go swimming because the rocks in other areas can be sharp to walk on! The best area we found out was at Pines Beach (well, we went a little to the left) and the sand was so soft and the kids really enjoyed it. The other cool thing about this area is there are loads of trees dotted around the shoreline, so you get shade and privacy.
We spent a lot of time here as it was only 5-minutes from the Tekapo shops and the girls made sandcastles and even floating castles on their boogie boards for their barbies, which from the look on the barbies faces, they enjoyed! The water gradually got deeper (unlike Kai Iwi Lakes in Northland with the sudden drop!) which is perfect for the kiddies. Lath braved the cold, but I only went up to my thighs - toooo cold for me! Brrr.
We saw a few families of ducks swimming around, minding their own business, Mama duck showing off how super dee duper cute her ducklings were. We don't blame her; they really were super cute!
Pines Beach is the best place for swimming at Lake Tekapo
Daddy shark doo doo doo doo doo doo
Sienna building a floating sandcastle for her barbies
Nudie rudie barbies having a great time on their floating castles made by the girls
How cool is it that there's a beach part at the lake?
A family of ducks came to visit us
The carpark is a 30-second walk from our favourite spot at the beach
Adrian's Place (Don't Worry, He Won't Be Home)
We had already spent a week in Tekapo before we found Adrian's Place and we couldn't believe how incredible the views were when we did find it! We were driving to Lake Alexandrina and we turned one of the corners on Godley Peaks Road and lo and behold, we were met with one of the most magnificent views in Tekapo!
Adrian's Place isn't a place as such, it's not a building or a house, it's a parking spot for really only 1 or 2 cars (it all depends how inconveniently someone has parked in the spot as to whether you'll fit in there or not). We have seen people set up there for a few hours with camping chairs and others just pop by to take photos (like yours truly, although I could have stayed there foreeeeever). I'd like to know who Adrian is and why he claims it as his place? Anyone?
About 50m down the road is another parking area - I say that loosely. It's a dirt track that's vuuuury B-U-M-P-Y but a great place to park and take in the views of Lake Tekapo. It's also perfect for lying in wait and watching anyone leaving Adrian's Place so you can quickly rush up and grab a spot.
If you're lucky enough to visit Tekapo from mid-November to late December, you will be greeted with beautiful lupins at the bottom parking spot (also head to the Lupin Field and Cowans Hill Track for more).
Click here to find it on Google Maps.
Adrian's Place isn't a place as such, it's not a building or a house, it's a parking spot for really only 1 or 2 cars (it all depends how inconveniently someone has parked in the spot as to whether you'll fit in there or not). We have seen people set up there for a few hours with camping chairs and others just pop by to take photos (like yours truly, although I could have stayed there foreeeeever). I'd like to know who Adrian is and why he claims it as his place? Anyone?
About 50m down the road is another parking area - I say that loosely. It's a dirt track that's vuuuury B-U-M-P-Y but a great place to park and take in the views of Lake Tekapo. It's also perfect for lying in wait and watching anyone leaving Adrian's Place so you can quickly rush up and grab a spot.
If you're lucky enough to visit Tekapo from mid-November to late December, you will be greeted with beautiful lupins at the bottom parking spot (also head to the Lupin Field and Cowans Hill Track for more).
Click here to find it on Google Maps.
One of the best viewpoints in Tekapo (aside from Mt John, of course!)
View from Adrian's Place
There are plenty of lupins to enjoy if you're there mid-Nov to end of December
The lupins were starting to fade when we visited at the end of December
View from the parking spot below Adrian's Place
Gammack Range
Mt Stevenson
Exploring Lake Tekapo In Autumn
Our first visit to Lake Tekapo was in May 2021 which was also our first trip to the South Island of New Zealand (you can read all about our adventures here) and we were really lucky that it was so quiet at the lake, we pretty much had it all to ourselves!
Autumn is deeefinitely not a time for swimming in the lake, unless you like punishing yourself, so instead it's a picturesque place with leaves around the edge were turning orange, yellow and brown, creating a golden glow (apart from the lush green pine trees!). This is what we LOVE about the South Island in autumn!
The water wasn't very blue when we visited in autumn, so you can imagine our surprise at the difference when we showed up in summer!
Autumn is deeefinitely not a time for swimming in the lake, unless you like punishing yourself, so instead it's a picturesque place with leaves around the edge were turning orange, yellow and brown, creating a golden glow (apart from the lush green pine trees!). This is what we LOVE about the South Island in autumn!
The water wasn't very blue when we visited in autumn, so you can imagine our surprise at the difference when we showed up in summer!
Sienna in her super cute winter outfit!
The water of Lake Tekapo was a different colour compared to when we visited in summer
"That is one big tree!"
Mummy & Sienna
The Lake Front
Tekapo's lakefront is the ultimate destination for those who want a little bit of everything. There's the playground that offers the most Instagram-worthy views in all of New Zealand and the Church of the Good Shepherd which is a popular spot to take a picture. The iconic church is a magnet for thousands of visitors each year, but don't let that discourage you, there's plenty of room for everyone to get their shot (and other people are always happy to take a snap of you in front of it if ye shall so desire).
Summer is when the lakefront really comes to life. It's like a beehive of activity, with people kayaking, boating, and even stacking rocks like a pro. It's such a great place to see the snowcapped Southern Alps, especially if you're lucky enough to be there on a sunny day.
The playground has a slide, flying fox, swings and more and there's loads of space to run around. Top tip - the flying fox on the left has the best speed and goes the furthest! The one on the right just slows down and stops and it's super underwhelming!
We spent many evenings after dinner, walking down to the lakefront and hang out on the rocks while the kids play in the water. Despite the crowds, it's still a peaceful place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty.
You can read our full blog on the Church of the Good Shepherd and the dog statue here.
Summer is when the lakefront really comes to life. It's like a beehive of activity, with people kayaking, boating, and even stacking rocks like a pro. It's such a great place to see the snowcapped Southern Alps, especially if you're lucky enough to be there on a sunny day.
The playground has a slide, flying fox, swings and more and there's loads of space to run around. Top tip - the flying fox on the left has the best speed and goes the furthest! The one on the right just slows down and stops and it's super underwhelming!
We spent many evenings after dinner, walking down to the lakefront and hang out on the rocks while the kids play in the water. Despite the crowds, it's still a peaceful place to unwind and soak in the natural beauty.
You can read our full blog on the Church of the Good Shepherd and the dog statue here.
Church of the Good Shepherd
The famous dog statue
View across to Pines Beach
Is this the most beautiful backdrop for a playground in New Zealand?
There is heaps to keep the little ones entertained
The rocks are sharp to walk on at the lake front, so we prefer to swim at Pines Beach
Would You Rather Be A Pancake Or A Banana?
Forget about crossing the main bridge, you might end up as flat as a pancake, but with the footbridge you'll be as safe as a banana in a bunch.
It's a beautiful piece of architecture which is built over the bluest part of the lake, so crossing it is a bit of a treat and of course kids loooove going over bridges (Sienna had a blast on the Rail Loop Track at Karanagahake Gorge in the North Island, I think there were 6 bridges on the track!).
If you're parked at the shops, the bridge will take you across to the Church of the Good Shepherd (although there is also parking by the church) and Pines Beach further around.
It's a beautiful piece of architecture which is built over the bluest part of the lake, so crossing it is a bit of a treat and of course kids loooove going over bridges (Sienna had a blast on the Rail Loop Track at Karanagahake Gorge in the North Island, I think there were 6 bridges on the track!).
If you're parked at the shops, the bridge will take you across to the Church of the Good Shepherd (although there is also parking by the church) and Pines Beach further around.
The water is super blue below the bridge
There are no pedestrians allowed on the main bridge, so you need to use the footbridge to get across the lake
It's a super purdy bridge!
The footbridge is a great place to take photos of Lake Tekapo
Lath and the girls on one of our evening walks to the lakefront
Olympian Doggies Are Welcome
The Mackenzie Region has a huge rabbit problem. Well, they see it as a problem, I see it as an infestation of cuteness. Anyway, there are certain areas in Tekapo that have Pindone poisoning set up for rabbits, so to keep doggies safe, there's a big dog park in the forest near Pines Beach.
That's why they built the ultimate playground for our furry friends, a dog park near Pines Beach, surrounded by high deer fencing so even the most enthusiastic doggy Olympians are safe to play. We were looking after the most gorgeous springer spaniel and we took him to the dog park quite a bit and he was free to tear around, springing here and there (seriously, have you seen them do it? It's hilarious!).
You can take dogs on leash to the lake, through a gate at the bottom of the dog park which is easy to spot.
And as a bonus, just outside the entrance, there's a dog poo bin, so you won't have to carry the smell around with you all the way home!
Find the Lake Tekapo Dog Park here.
That's why they built the ultimate playground for our furry friends, a dog park near Pines Beach, surrounded by high deer fencing so even the most enthusiastic doggy Olympians are safe to play. We were looking after the most gorgeous springer spaniel and we took him to the dog park quite a bit and he was free to tear around, springing here and there (seriously, have you seen them do it? It's hilarious!).
You can take dogs on leash to the lake, through a gate at the bottom of the dog park which is easy to spot.
And as a bonus, just outside the entrance, there's a dog poo bin, so you won't have to carry the smell around with you all the way home!
Find the Lake Tekapo Dog Park here.
"Are we there yet!?!?!?!"
"Do you mind not taking pictures of me when I'm weeing???"
The dog park is fully fenced
I thought the tree's shadow looked like tree roots
Entry to the dog park
Adventure To Cass River
We love going on adventures without a purpose (sometimes it's an accident) and one day we decided to drive past Mt John, past the turn off to Lake Alexandrina and see what was up ahead.
We ended up having lunch at Cass River (chippie rolls - a good ol' Kiwi lunch) and seeing some beautiful views.
The roads up either side of Lake Tekapo will take you to spots that are so picturesque and you'll most likely have the whole place to yourself. So give it a go, you never know what you'll discover!
Click here to read the full blog about our adventure to Cass River
We ended up having lunch at Cass River (chippie rolls - a good ol' Kiwi lunch) and seeing some beautiful views.
The roads up either side of Lake Tekapo will take you to spots that are so picturesque and you'll most likely have the whole place to yourself. So give it a go, you never know what you'll discover!
Click here to read the full blog about our adventure to Cass River
So many beautiful layers of colour
Chippie roll for lunch
What a contrast!
Know Before You Go
- The weather in Tekapo can be unpredictable and can change quickly. Be prepared for all seasons and pack accordingly. Even in summer, it's chilly in the evening (which is so nice) and if you get a southerly wind, it can be a coooooold day brrrr
- Tekapo is a tourist hot spot and accommodation can fill up quickly, especially during peak season so book in advance if you can.
- Lake Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, it is the largest Dark Sky Reserve in the world, so if you're up and about when it's dark and a clear night, be sure to get your star gaze on!
- Don't forget to bring your camera!
- There is one small Four Square in the area which has a good range but is pricey compared to other supermarkets
Mappy McMap Face
Getting There
Lake Tekapo is located in the Mackenzie region of New Zealand's South Island. There are a few different ways to get to Lake Tekapo from Christchurch & Queenstown.
From Christchurch:
The quickest and most convenient way to get to Lake Tekapo from Christchurch is by car. The drive takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. From Christchurch, take State Highway 1, then take the turnoff to State Highway 8, and follow the signs to Lake Tekapo. Be sure to stop in at Rakaia Gorge on your way over.
From Queenstown:
The quickest and most convenient way to get to Lake Tekapo from Queenstown is by car. The drive takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. From Queenstown, take State Highway 6, then take the turnoff to State Highway 8, and follow the signs to Lake Tekapo. You'll be passing by the Omarama Clay Cliffs just south of Twizel which are one of our favourite places to explore in the South Island!
From Christchurch:
The quickest and most convenient way to get to Lake Tekapo from Christchurch is by car. The drive takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. From Christchurch, take State Highway 1, then take the turnoff to State Highway 8, and follow the signs to Lake Tekapo. Be sure to stop in at Rakaia Gorge on your way over.
From Queenstown:
The quickest and most convenient way to get to Lake Tekapo from Queenstown is by car. The drive takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. From Queenstown, take State Highway 6, then take the turnoff to State Highway 8, and follow the signs to Lake Tekapo. You'll be passing by the Omarama Clay Cliffs just south of Twizel which are one of our favourite places to explore in the South Island!
Conclusion
Visiting Lake Tekapo is a truly breathtaking experience. The clear blue waters, surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and alpine landscapes, offer visitors a sense of tranquility and natural beauty that is hard to match. There's so much to do around the lake and no matter where you look, you get some of the best views in New Zealand (on a sunny day, of course)!
If you're planning a visit to Lake Tekapo in autumn/winter, don't forget to pack your warmest coat, your cutest beanie, and your best "I'm having a deep, introspective moment" face. And if you're heading there in summer/spring, enjoy all the beautiful lupins, bring your togs and ENJOY!
Check out the best things to do in and around Tekapo with kids here.
If you're planning a visit to Lake Tekapo in autumn/winter, don't forget to pack your warmest coat, your cutest beanie, and your best "I'm having a deep, introspective moment" face. And if you're heading there in summer/spring, enjoy all the beautiful lupins, bring your togs and ENJOY!
Check out the best things to do in and around Tekapo with kids here.
Gallery of Lake Tekapo
Check out the rest of the awesomeness that didn't make it to the main blog but deserves to be shown.
More to do in Tekapo
MT JOHN
CANTERBURY Mt John offers one of the best views in NZ. Walk around the summit or have a coffee at the cafe. Prepare to say WOW! |
BEST THINGS TO DO IN AND AROUND TEKAPO WITH KIDS
CANTERBURY We've been there, done that and have chosen the top things we love doing in and around Tekapo with our two girls.
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COWANS HILL TRACK
CANTERBURY A beautiful and peaceful walk up the back of Tekapo, full of lupins in Nov - Jan if you go down the right track. Great mountain views! |
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