Lake Tekapo sits in the South Island of New Zealand, beneath the Southern Alps. It is known above all for its striking colour: the water glows a brilliant turquoise, a tint caused by fine rock flour carried down from glaciers and suspended in the lake.
The setting is open and dramatic. Mountains rise around the shoreline, and the view changes with the light through the day, so the lake repays a slow walk along its edge as well as a quick photograph.
What to see and do
- The Church of the Good Shepherd, a small stone church on the lakeshore, is one of the area's best-known sights and makes a picturesque stop.
- Nearby hot springs offer a way to relax after a day outdoors.
- Stargazing: the area lies within one of the world's largest International Dark Sky Reserves, which makes it a notable place to watch the night sky.
Planning your visit
Lake Tekapo works well as a stop for both quiet and adventure. Visitors who come for the stars should plan around clear nights, since the sky is the main attraction after dark, while daytime visits suit gentle walks, church visits and time at the water. Because the lake is a stop on the way through the region, it fits easily into a wider trip across the South Island's high country.