Things to do in Tekapo

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Visit Tekapo

Types of activities

Tekapo Travel Guide

A stone church with a bell tower, surrounded by dry grass and mountains in the background.

A desert landscape with mountains in the background and a body of water in the foreground.

A person crouching by a calm lake at sunset with mountains in the background.

A dining area with large windows overlooking a mountainous landscape.

A man fishing by a calm river with mountains in the background.

Things to do

Lake Tekapo: Single Day Pass for Hot Pools

Lake Tekapo: Single Day Multiple Entry Pass for Hot Pools

$24

per adult

76% of travellers recommend

Chameleon Stargazing Shared Tour

$72

per adult

Lake Tekapo: Stargazing Experience

$72

per adult

100% of travellers recommend

Twizel: Stargazing Tour with an Astronomer and Telescope

$71

per adult

Alpine Vista Helicopter Flight & Alpine Landing

$230

per adult

100% of travellers recommend

Picture 1 for Activity Lake Tekapo: 1.5-Hour Hot Pools & Stargazing Experience

Lake Tekapo: 90-minute Hot Pools & Stargazing Experience

$113

per adult

Tekapo Star Gazing Tour - Soak in the Stars

$107

per adult

See all activities in Tekapo

Tekapo must see attractions

1. Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park is a fantastic place to enjoy New Zealand’s winter, with skiing and snow sports, hot springs, and snow-capped mountains and glaciers sparkling in the sun. During summer, water sports and hiking are popular. Enjoy the scenic beauty while hiking near mountain peaks, beech forests and a landscape carved by glacial movement.

Learn more

A snow-capped mountain range with a turquoise lake in the foreground.

2. Lake Pukaki

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.

Learn more

A mountain range with snow-capped peaks, a dense forest, and a turquoise lake.

3. Tekapo Springs

Soak in soothing heated pools or pamper yourself with a remedial treatment at the Tekapo Springs spa.

Learn more

A swimming pool with a mountainous backdrop.

4. Mount John Observatory

Mount John Observatory is one of New Zealand’s leading observatories. Being located on a hilltop overlooking the mesmerizing Lake Tekapo, it’s also hugely popular for its day-time views.

Learn more

A mountainous landscape with two large domed observatories and a building in the foreground.

5. Roundhill Ski Area

Overlooking the beautiful azure stretch of Lake Tekapo in Mackenzie Country, Roundhill Ski Area is an exciting and family-friendly ski field amid breathtaking South Island scenery. From an extensive learners’ area to a freestyle terrain park and Australasia’s biggest vertical drop, this little ski field covers a wide range of skill levels.

Learn more

A skier on a snow-covered slope with a rocky cliff and a distant lake.

Recommended things to do in Tekapo

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia	:
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Tekapo

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Tekapo? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Stay near popular Tekapo attractions

Mount John Observatory

9.0/10 (338 reviews)

Take an evening tour to see the wonders of the night sky or visit during the day to enjoy the stunning views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains.

See properties

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Popular day trips from Tekapo

A paved path leading through a grassy field towards snow-capped mountains.

Mount Cook

A lake with purple flowers in the foreground, a turquoise sea, and snow-capped mountains in the background.

Lake Tekapo

A mountain range with snow-capped peaks and a calm blue lake in the foreground.

Pukaki

A mountain range with snow-capped peaks, a turquoise lake, and dense green forest.

Peel Forest

A metal gate in a field with a mountain range in the background.

Burkes Pass

A river winding through a mountainous landscape with snow-capped peaks in the background.

Sibbald

Frequently asked questions

Is Tekapo worth visiting?

Whether you're planning to enjoy the cultural highlights and local charm or sample regional foods and explore the outdoors, there are plenty of things to do in Tekapo.

How do I spend a day in Tekapo?

Start your day with a visit to Mount John Observatory. Then, explore different parts of Tekapo for a quick bite and some retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in Tekapo?

Mount John Observatory is rated the top tourist attraction near Tekapo, so don't leave without paying it a visit.

Is three days enough to stay in Tekapo?

You'll have plenty of time to check out Mount John Observatory, Lake Tekapō Regional Park and other major attractions in the area when you plan a three-day getaway to Tekapo.

What are some activities to do in Tekapo with kids?

Whether you're vacationing with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Tekapo with kids.

What to do in Tekapo for adults?

From regional food and cultural gems to thrilling activities and unique experiences, there are plenty of great things to do in Tekapo for adults.

Are there free things to do in Tekapo?

One of the top free things to do in Tekapo is Lake Tekapō Regional Park. You can also stroll through nearby neighborhoods and enjoy public parks and other green spaces in the area. If you're stuck for ideas, just talk with a local tour guide.