Lake Pukaki Tours

Lake Pukaki showing mountains, snow and a lake or waterhole
Lake Pukaki showing mountains, a lake or waterhole and snow
Lake Pukaki showing mountains, a lake or waterhole and snow
Lake Pukaki showing a lake or waterhole
Lake Pukaki featuring mist or fog, snow and mountains


Be amazed by the color of the lake against the snowy backdrop of Aoraki/Mount Cook as you hike, drive or ride through this incredibly picturesque landscape.

Lake Pukaki sits below New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook. Combined the lake and mountain create one of the country’s most awe-inspiring vistas. When you see the ethereal, turquoise color of the water, which turns milky when the clouds roll in, you may want to pinch yourself to check if you aren’t dreaming.

The lake covers approximately 69 square miles (178 square kilometers) and was formed when a moraine, leftover rubble from melting glaciers, dammed the valley below. Lake Pukaki is fed by the Tasman River, which flows from the Tasman and Hooker glaciers to the west.

Drop into the visitor center at the base of the lake to get information and learn about the geology and history of the area. While here, try locally farmed salmon at Mount Cook Alpine Salmon in the same building.

The lake’s spellbinding color is caused by the finely ground minerals from the glaciers’ melt waters. Marvel at the contrast between the blue waters and the white peaks of Aoraki/Mount Cook. It won’t come as a surprise to movie fans that scenes from The Hobbit series were filmed on the shores of Lake Pukaki, at nearby Tasman Downs Station.

Walk, ride or hike around the lake and take in the different moods of the lake as the skies change. Cherish the feeling of solitude in this vast landscape by spending the night at The Pines camping area.

Lake Pukaki is situated between the towns of Twizel and Mount Cook Village, which offer the closest amenities and accommodation if you’re not camping. To get to Mount Cook, which is known Aoraki by Māori, follow the lake shore up to the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

Stop at the viewing area about halfway along the scenic road to look back down over the lake and then up at the vastness of the mountains in the other direction. Take the short hike up from the Blue Lakes Shelter to see the Tasman Glacier to the west and the lake to the east. This rapidly retreating glacier feeds Lake Pukaki its special mix of icy water and minerals, the source of its stunning colors.

Plan a trip to see Lake Pukaki

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Bush Inn Court Motel
298 Westside Motor Lodge
Rydges Latimer Christchurch

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Lake Pukaki

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Peppers Bluewater Resort

4.5 out of 5
State Highway 8, Lake Tekapo
Peppers Bluewater Resort
Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat

5 out of 5
86 Mount Cook Road (State Highway 80), Ben Ohau, Canterbury
Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat
Lakestone Lodge

Lakestone Lodge

5 out of 5
4589 Tekapo – Twizel Hwy, State Highway 8, Pukaki
Lakestone Lodge
Glentanner Park Centre

Glentanner Park Centre

4.5 out of 5
State Highway 80, Glentanner
Glentanner Park Centre
Haka House Lake Tekapo

Haka House Lake Tekapo

5 out of 5
5 Motuariki Lane, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury
Haka House Lake Tekapo
Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

5 out of 5
14 Greig St, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury
Grand Suites Lake Tekapo
Skyrim Lodge

Skyrim Lodge

3 out of 5
11 Jimmys Lane, Lake Tekapo
Skyrim Lodge
The Godley Hotel

The Godley Hotel

3 out of 5
2 Rapuwai Lane, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury
The Godley Hotel
Galaxy Boutique Hotel

Galaxy Boutique Hotel

3.5 out of 5
53 Darchiac Dr, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury
Galaxy Boutique Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lake Pukaki

Lake Pukaki offers a variety of activities for visitors, including stunning stargazing and scenic hiking opportunities. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a nice hike in the area, and consider visiting nearby Paihia for more exploration. For accommodation, the holiday park is a great option, providing a comfortable stay while you soak in the beautiful landscapes surrounding the lake.

Food and drinks

For a taste of the local seafood, visit Mt Cook Alpine Salmon, where you can enjoy freshly prepared salmon dishes. Don't miss the Pukaki Café for delightful coffee and pastries, perfect for a relaxing break while soaking in the stunning views of Lake Pukaki.

Recreation

Experience the serene Cairns Golf Course in Lake Tekapo, perfect for a round of golf surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. For ultimate relaxation, head to Lake Tekapō Regional Park, where you can enjoy tranquil walks and rejuvenating outdoor activities amidst stunning natural beauty.

Adventure

Explore the Cowans Hill Walkway, located 16 miles from Lake Pukaki, for an invigorating hiking experience. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, immerse yourself in the vibrant outdoor scenery, and embrace the adventure vibes that this picturesque trail offers.

Nightlife

At Lake Pukaki, the Mount John Observatory offers stunning stargazing experiences with a family-friendly atmosphere. The Dark Sky Project complements this with its captivating celestial displays, perfect for those seeking entertainment under the stars, just 16 miles away from the lake.

Find the best attractions near Lake Pukaki

Lake Pukaki offers a stunning mix of outdoor adventures and romantic scenery, making it a perfect getaway for travelers. Explore the beautiful Lake Pukaki itself, visit the informative visitor center, or relax in nearby hot springs. Don’t miss the nearby attractions of Lake Tekapo and Lake Ohau, both showcasing New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy a memorable vacation surrounded by nature's beauty at Lake Pukaki.

  • Tekapo Springs: Just 15 miles from Lake Pukaki, Tekapo Springs offers a unique wellness experience with its natural hot springs. Enjoy outdoor relaxation surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, perfect for rejuvenating your body and mind.
  • Lake Tekapo: Located 20 miles away, Lake Tekapo is renowned for its breathtaking turquoise waters and romantic atmosphere. Ideal for outdoor adventures, you can relax on the beach or take scenic walks amidst picturesque landscapes.
  • Church of the Good Shepherd: Situated 16 miles from Lake Pukaki, this iconic church showcases stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. Its serene location makes it a perfect spot for reflection and admiring the surrounding beauty.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Pukaki

To save money on your trip to Lake Pukaki, visit during the off-peak months of August and October to November for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Use their search tools to filter by price and eco-friendly options, and consider package deals to combine flights and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also unlock exclusive discounts and earn you cash for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Pukaki are August and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and March to April, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Lake Pukaki about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy for you to set your budget and choose your desired location, among other preferences. You can arrange your search results to display hotel prices from the lowest to the highest, ensuring you find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Lake Pukaki with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.