What to do in Tekapo

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo provided by Roundhill Ski Resort
Photo provided by Roundhill Ski Resort
Photo provided by Roundhill Ski Resort
Photo provided by Roundhill Ski Resort
Photo provided by Roundhill Ski Resort
Photo provided by Roundhill Ski Resort
Mount John Observatory showing tranquil scenes, landscape views and mountains
Mount John Observatory showing mountains and tranquil scenes

Tekapo Tourist Attractions & Activities

If you’re searching for an exciting holiday, count on Expedia.com.au to help you find interesting attractions, enlightening experiences, and tons of other fun things to do in Tekapo AU$53. From first-rate tours to incredible deals on sightseeing trips – our extensive selection of local things to do and places to visit is just a few clicks away.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re travelling alone, alongside your main squeeze, or with your favourite friends or family members, Expedia has the inside scoop on what to see and do while in this corner of the world. And our search tool makes it simple to score the best deals around. So regardless of if you are on a tight budget or prefer to spare no expense, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for by browsing over 49 activities in Tekapo, Canterbury.

The intuitive booking system here on Expedia.com.au makes planning your holiday easier—and more affordable—than ever before. And not only can you discover all the best Tekapo attractions from AU$53, but you can also book flights, hire cars, and reserve hotel rooms all in just a few moments. A world of wonder awaits you and your travelling companions. Count on Expedia.com.au to help you plan the holiday of your dreams, and you’ll have the time of your life.

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Top places to visit

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.
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Mount Cook National Park showing tranquil scenes, mountains and a river or creek

2. Tekapo Springs

Soak in soothing heated pools or pamper yourself with a remedial treatment at the Tekapo Springs spa.
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In the shoulder season the pools are very quiet. Since they're hot, it really doesn't matter what the weather does.

3. 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.
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Lake Pukaki which includes snow, a lake or waterhole and mountains

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.
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Mount John Observatory showing landscape views, a river or creek and tranquil scenes

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.
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Roundhill Ski Area showing mountains and snow

Recommended things to do in Tekapo

Number of things to do
49
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Dark Sky Indoor Maori Cultural Astronomy Experience: AU$53
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Tekapo

Discover the most popular places to visit in Tekapo

Mount John Observatory showing landscape views, a river or creek and tranquil scenes

Mount John Observatory

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.

Mount John Observatory
Roundhill Ski Area showing mountains and snow

Roundhill Ski Area

Spend the day discovering this ski field above Lake Tekapo, which provides beginner-friendly runs alongside the steepest vertical drop in the country.

Roundhill Ski Area

Mount John Lookout

You can learn about the history of Tekapo with a stop at Mount John Lookout. Stroll along the lakeside in this quaint area or visit its top-notch restaurants.

Mount John Lookout

Lake Tekapō Regional Park

Explore the great outdoors at Lake Tekapō Regional Park, a lovely green space in Tekapo.

Lake Tekapō Regional Park

 

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.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Tekapo

Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook

Lake Tekapo featuring mountains, a lake or waterhole and wild flowers

Lake Tekapo

Lake Pukaki featuring snow, mountains and a lake or waterhole

Pukaki

Photo by The Adventure is Calling

Peel Forest

Photo by Mel Fekto

Burkes Pass

Frequently asked questions

Is Tekapo worth visiting?
Tekapo has a unique mix of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or regional cuisine, there's plenty you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Tekapo?
Mount John Observatory is a great place to begin your getaway adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and retail options in Tekapo while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Tekapo?
Plan a day at Mount John Observatory and discover why it's rated as the top tourist attraction near Tekapo.
Is three days enough to stay in Tekapo?
Three days in Tekapo is enough time to discover the nearby sights. Many travellers love Mount John Observatory and Lake Tekapō Regional Park, so why not check them out while you're in the area?
What are some activities to do in Tekapo with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Tekapo with kids.

What to do in Tekapo for adults?
Adults of all ages will find lots of things to do in Tekapo. Whether you're into local cuisine, outdoor pursuits or just love discovering new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Tekapo?
You won't have to go out of your way to find free things to do in Tekapo. Just ask a local tour guide and they'll have suggestions for places and activities you can experience with no costs involved. One free option for your itinerary is Lake Tekapō Regional Park.