Lake Tekapo hotels from RM259

Top reasons to visit Lake Tekapo

• Stunning Scenery: Lake Tekapo boasts breathtaking views with its turquoise waters and surrounding mountains, offering a perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure.
• Stargazing Opportunities: Renowned for its dark skies, Lake Tekapo is a prime destination for stargazing tours, allowing visitors to marvel at the Milky Way.
• Hot Springs: Enjoy rejuvenating experiences at the famous hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Outdoor Activities: From hiking to skiing, Lake Tekapo offers a myriad of outdoor pursuits for all ages and interests.
• Charming Local Attractions: Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and the famous sheepdog statue, adding cultural richness to your trip.

Find great hotels in Lake Tekapo

Explore a range of delightful accommodation options in Lake Tekapo, where adventure meets relaxation. From charming motels to exquisite hotels and lodges, you’ll find the perfect base for your exploration of this stunning region. With a focus on hot spring-themed stays and pet-friendly experiences, Lake Tekapo offers a unique blend of comfort and outdoor excitement, ensuring an unforgettable holiday in the heart of Canterbury.

• Lake Tekapo Village Motel: This 3.5-star motel, rated 8.6 out of 10 by guests, offers a welcoming atmosphere for those seeking a hot spring-themed getaway. Nestled in the scenic Lake Tekapo, the motel provides easy access to nearby natural hot springs, allowing visitors to unwind and relax. Its proximity to ski shuttles and lifts makes it a viable option for winter sports enthusiasts. With comfortable accommodations and a focus on relaxation, it caters well to those looking for a rejuvenating escape.
• The Godley Hotel: With a 3-star rating and a guest score of 8.2 out of 10, The Godley Hotel presents an adventurous retreat in Lake Tekapo. This property features access to nearby natural hot springs and offers a range of thrilling activities such as kayaking, waterskiing, and horse riding. Ideal for the active traveller, the hotel’s amenities encourage exploration of the stunning surrounding landscapes. The Godley Hotel strikes a balance between comfort and adventure, making it a compelling choice for those seeking excitement.
• Lakes Edge Holiday Park: Rated 9.0 out of 10, Lakes Edge Holiday Park is a budget-friendly option that stands out for its eco-certification. This accommodation is situated conveniently by the lake, making it ideal for eco-conscious travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature. The park promotes sustainable practices while providing a comfortable stay, appealing to families and nature enthusiasts alike. Guests appreciate the serene environment and close proximity to scenic walking trails and outdoor activities, ensuring a refreshing experience.

Where to stay near Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a picturesque haven perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways alike. Visitors can revel in the stunning views of the turquoise lake, embark on scenic walks, and unwind at tranquil resorts. The friendly atmosphere and family-friendly vibe make it an ideal destination for all. Just a short drive away, explore the charming nearby towns and experience the captivating beauty of the Mackenzie District, where unforgettable adventures await.

• South Island: Nestled as a stunning natural sanctuary, South Island is located approximately 11km from Lake Tekapo. This picturesque region draws visitors year-round, with peak arrivals during the summer months of December to February. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, South Island offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from skiing on pristine slopes to exploring scenic recreational areas. With remarkable landmarks such as shimmering lakes, majestic mountains, and the expansive national parks, this area is a must-visit for those seeking romance and adventure in the heart of nature.
• Mackenzie Basin: Just 13km from Lake Tekapo, the Mackenzie Basin is a captivating region that enchants travellers with its expansive vistas and outdoor experiences. Visitor numbers peak in September and from December to January, showcasing the area's allure throughout the year. Known for its scenic beauty, the basin offers a range of activities including invigorating outdoor pursuits, tree-top walks, and rejuvenating spa retreats. Local highlights include shimmering lakes, relaxing hot springs, and the stunning national state parks, making it a perfect destination for couples and nature enthusiasts alike.
• Burkes Pass: Situated approximately 18km from Lake Tekapo, Burkes Pass is a charming suburb that enchants visitors with its serene landscapes and outdoor activities. Though travel to Burkes Pass remains steady throughout the year, the peak seasons occur in March and December to January. This area is ideal for those seeking adventure, with opportunities for skiing and enjoying recreation parks. With nearby lakes, towering mountains, and national parks to explore, Burkes Pass presents a delightful blend of natural beauty and outdoor excitement, perfect for a romantic getaway or family adventure.

Things to do in Lake Tekapo

Shopping

In Lake Tekapo, you can explore local artisan shops for unique souvenirs and gifts, such as the Tekapo Village Gift Shop, which offers a delightful selection of crafts and memorabilia. If you're up for a drive, head to Twizel, about 30 minutes away, where you'll find larger shops and a wider variety of items.

Recreation

The Tekapo Springs offers rejuvenating thermal pools with stunning views of the lake and mountains, perfect for relaxation. Enjoy a range of wellness treatments, including massages and spa therapies, alongside outdoor activities like stargazing and scenic walks in the surrounding landscapes.

Adventure

In Lake Tekapo, embark on a thrilling stargazing tour at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, where the night sky comes alive with stars. Experience the beauty of the landscape while hiking or biking along scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the turquoise lake and surrounding mountains.

Nightlife

Lake Tekapo offers a serene nightlife, where you can enjoy stargazing at the Dark Sky Reserve. For a cosy evening, visit the local pub for a pint or enjoy a relaxing meal at a nearby restaurant, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of this beautiful region.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo provides numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Entry to the stunning Church of the Good Shepherd is free, and the best months to visit for lower accommodation prices are June and August to September. Booking your stay a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on Expedia can yield significant savings. Saturdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Tuesdays are the most costly. Utilising Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and Eco-certified hotels can lead to affordable options, and consider booking a package to combine flights, accommodation, and activities for greater savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Lake Tekapo are June and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Lake Tekapo is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Lake Tekapo is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Lake Tekapo is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: By booking an Expedia package, you can make significant savings by combining your hotel stay in Lake Tekapo with your flights and activities.

Find the best attractions in and around Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, renowned for its stunning scenery, offers an idyllic backdrop for outdoor and romantic getaways. Key attractions include the famous hot springs, the charming church, and the iconic statue. Visitors can explore the beauty of Lake Tekapo, enjoy the regional park, browse the souvenir shop, and hike to the summit for breathtaking views, making it a perfect destination for those seeking culture and adventure.

• Tekapo Springs: Experience relaxation and rejuvenation at Tekapo Springs, where natural hot springs offer a serene oasis amidst stunning landscapes. Enjoy outdoor thermal pools with breathtaking views, enhancing your wellness journey in this tranquil setting.
• Church of the Good Shepherd: Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of the region at the Church of the Good Shepherd. This quaint stone church, overlooking the stunning Lake Tekapo, is a testament to the area's pastoral history and offers a picturesque spot for reflection.
• Mount John Lookout: Embark on an adventure to Mount John Lookout, located a mile from Lake Tekapo. This spectacular vantage point offers panoramic views of the lake, mountains, and night skies, making it an enchanting destination for both romance and outdoor exploration.

Best time to go to Lake Tekapo

The best time to visit Lake Tekapo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Lake Tekapo falls in February, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Lake Tekapo falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with frequent rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	32.4°F (0.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	27.1°F (-2.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	25.0°F (-3.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	26.4°F (-3.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	28.9°F (-1.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Lake Tekapo

Accessing Lake Tekapo is convenient via two major airports. Hokitika Airport (HKK) is 150km away, with nearby accommodation such as the 5-star Rimu Lodge, located 6km from the airport, offering limited airport shuttle services. Awatuna Sunset Lodge, a 4.5-star bed and breakfast, is 11km from HKK, while Fitzherbert Court Motel, a 4-star option, is only 1km away. Timaru Airport (TIU-Richard Pearse) is 68km from Lake Tekapo, with excellent lodging options including Aspen on King Motel, 11km away, Ashbury Park Motel, 8km away, and Baywatch Motor Lodge, 10km from the airport.