Things to do in Tekapo

Discover the wonders of the night sky on a stargazing experience. Be whisked away to super dark stargazing locations, with some of the lowest light pollution in Tekapo, at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Get access to powerful 14” telescopes for views of various deep space objects and special astro-lasers for easy viewing of stars and constellations. With the tour size capped at 10 people, enjoy a small ratio of telescopes to guests and get plenty of time on the telescopes and with the guide. At the end of your journey, get a photo taken of your group under the stars (depending on the weather), which you will receive within 48 hours via email to share with your family and friends.

**Itinerary** **Christchurch** – Our journey begins as we leave the Garden City (Christchurch) and head south toward our destination. Along the way, our knowledgeable driver will highlight some of the key landmarks and attractions of Christchurch. **Canterbury Plains** – Surrounding Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains stretch out, offering views of farmland as far as the eye can see. The plains are home to a variety of farming activities, including crop cultivation, vineyards, dairy farming, and livestock production. **Fairlie Bakehouse (10 mins)** – Nestled in the charming farming town of Fairlie, located in Mackenzie, this stop is a true delight. The town is especially stunning in autumn, as the landscape transforms with vibrant colors. Here, you can enjoy one of the famous meat pies from the local bakehouse. This is also where we’ll grab your lunch, ensuring you’re fueled for the rest of the journey. **Lake Tekapo & The Church of the Good Shepherd (15 mins)** – Located in the heart of the Mackenzie region, Lake Tekapo is a breathtaking alpine destination. At the right time of year, the lakeshore is adorned with clusters of wild lupins. We’ll head to the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots, perfect for those Instagram-worthy pictures. **Lake Pukaki (10 mins)** – This glacier-fed lake stands out from other alpine lakes with its shifting colors, ranging from ice blue to deep blue, depending on the weather. On clear days, enjoy uninterrupted views of the majestic Mt Cook, rising from the lake’s edge. **Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park (2.5 hrs)** – Welcome to the heart of our journey! Aoraki/Mt Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, is named after the famous explorer James Cook. Once you arrive, you'll have the option to embark on the **Tasman Glacier Viewpoint** walk. Alternatively, if you’d prefer an aerial view of the mountains, we can arrange a scenic helicopter ride for you and your family. - **Tasman Glacier Viewpoint Walk (2-2.5 hrs)** – This track leads through the old terminal moraines of the Tasman Glacier, offering incredible views of the glacier, surrounding river, and lake. PLEASE NOTE, THE DOC ADVERTISED TIME FOR MT COOK IS 3 HOURS. HOWEVER, DUE TO POTENTIAL DELAYS FROM OTHER CUSTOMERS OR ROAD CONDITIONS, WE CANNOT GUARANTEE THIS TIMEFRAME. At 2:15 PM, please follow your guide's instructions to ensure you have time to check in at the hotel as you won't be returning back to Christchurch with us.

-IMPORTANT NOTICE- *Temporary tour conditions due to partial closure of the Hooker Valley Track and alternative walking options. -Itinerary- Meeting point 8:00 AM The meeting point for our tour is either the car park at the Tekapo Four Square supermarket or the public parking area next to the supermarket. Peter’s lookout 9:00 AM One of the best views of Lake Pukaki and Aoraki(Mt Cook),and the surrounding Southern Alps is absolutely stunning, making it a must-visit spot. Hermitage Hotel 9:30 AM If you prefer not to participate in the hiking activity, you can choose to disembark at the hotel and reassemble at 3 PM. Tasman Glacier view track 9:45 AM For a memorable experience, consider exploring a short walking track offering magnificent views of the Tasman Glacier and Tasman Lake. Please note that while the track is a relatively easy walk, it does involve ascending approximately 300 steps. If you prefer an alternative, we also offer the Tasman River Track, which is a very easy walk. Hooker Valley track 10:45 AM You are free to walk at your own pace on this self-guided walk. The average walking time is 3 to 3.5 hours. At any time, our driver can take you to the village after you finish hiking. Enjoy your free time in the village until the return time. If you are not very keen on long day hikes, alternative short walking tracks are available around Mount Cook village. Hermitage Hotel 3:00 PM Please gather in front of the hotel at 3 pm to return to Lake Tekapo. If you are engaged in another activity or require pickup from a different location, please inform the driver on the day of the tour. Lake Pukaki 4:00 PM A brief stop is scheduled at Lake Pukaki, allowing time for taking photos and visiting the Alpine Salmon Shop. Lake Tekapo 4:30-5:00 PM The group returns to the village around 5:00pm. Please ask our driver if you require a drop-off at your accommodation.

Join us atop Mount John for an unforgettable journey through the stars. With exclusive access to Mount John’s 1,029m summit above Lake Tekapo, you’ll stand at the heart of the world’s largest Gold Standard International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best stargazing locations on Earth. Guided by expert astronomers, you’ll begin by exploring the Southern Skies with the naked eye, as our guides use handheld lasers to point out celestial sights, perfect for building your own stargazing skills. Then, take a closer look through our high-powered telescopes and discover the wonders of the night sky. Every evening reveals something new. An awe-inspiring experience that will change the way you see the universe.

At 3,724 meters, Aoraki/Mt Cook is home to New Zealand's highest peak and longest glacier, the Haupapa/Tasman Glacier. On this tour, you'll discover or rediscover stunning locations like Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, and Aoraki/Mt Cook. Escape the busy city life and embark on an adventure through some of the South Island's most beautiful landscapes. Relax in comfort as you travel in our modern, well-equipped Mercedes Sprinter (or similar), ensuring your journey is as easy and enjoyable as possible. Led by our passionate and knowledgeable guides, this tour will come to life in exciting and memorable ways. Get ready for a day filled with unforgettable moments, happy hearts, and plenty of photos! **Tour Highlights:** - Lake Pukaki - Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park - Tasman Glacier (Optional) - Hooker Valley Track (Optional) **Itinerary:** - **Lake Tekapo (Pick up)** – Start your journey in the breathtaking alpine region of Mackenzie. At the right time of year, wild lupins line the lake’s edge. - **Lake Pukaki (10 mins)** – This glacier-fed lake stands out with its striking color changes, from icy blue to deep blue, depending on the weather. On a clear day, you’ll get an uninterrupted view of Mt Cook stretching out from the lake. **Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park (2.5 hrs)** – Welcome to the heart of our journey! Aoraki/Mt Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, is named after the famous explorer James Cook. Once you arrive, you'll have the option to embark on one of two spectacular walks: the **Hooker Valley** or the **Tasman Glacier** walk. Alternatively, if you’d prefer an aerial view of the mountains, we can arrange a scenic helicopter ride for you and your family. - **Hooker Valley Walk (2-2.5 hrs)** – One of New Zealand's most renowned day hikes, the Hooker Valley track takes you alongside ice-covered cliffs (you might even hear them creaking) to a glacial lake with stunning views of Mt Cook. - **Tasman Glacier Walk (2-2.5 hrs)** – This track leads through the old terminal moraines of the Tasman Glacier, offering incredible views of the glacier, surrounding river, and lake. At 2:15 PM, please follow your guide's instructions, as they will provide the collection time to start the journey back home. - **Lake Tekapo (Drop off)** – Your day ends in the beautiful Lake Tekapo, a perfect spot to reflect on your unforgettable adventure.

Uncover the secrets of the Milky Way at Cowan’s Private Observatory with naked-eye stargazing and powerful telescopes. Guided by an expert astronomer, spend the evening immersed in the world’s largest Gold Standard International Dark Sky Reserve. Deepen your understanding of the southern skies as you explore the night sky. Our secluded observation craters provide shelter from wind and light pollution, ensuring an uninterrupted view of the stars. In this special place it's just you, the stars, and the best view of the endless southern skies. An accessible and engaging introduction to stargazing - perfect for first-time explorers, families, and seasoned stargazers alike.

Embark on a thrilling 2-hour high country guided farm tour just outside Tekapo on a vast 50,000-acre land property. With our comfortable 12-seater 4WD van, you'll traverse smooth and bumpy roads, capturing abundant photo opportunities of landscapes and farm animals. Limited to 10 people, our tours offer an intimate experience amid epic scenes. Your journey unfolds with a guide narrating Lake Tekapo's history, passing by 12,000 Merino sheep, 700 Angus cows, alpacas, horses, and working dogs. Explore landmarks like Irishman Creek Hut and Swan Tarn, home to the endangered Black Stilt bird. Indulge in New Zealand honey, savor fresh spring water at Forks Stream, and meet Mulan's horse stars. Culminate the adventure at a private Mt. John lookout, where you'll learn about Tekapo, dress like a farmer for laughs, and relish a stunning private spot. Conclude by getting close to alpacas, creating cherished memories, and leaving with newfound knowledge. Meeting point: 48a D’Archiac Drive (Next to Balmoral Farmyard & Shop) Lake Tekapo, New Zealand 7945

Enjoy an all weather, virtual stargazing and astronomy experience where the night sky will be brought to life, using state-of-the-art technology. Located within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, this 45-minute experience offers a captivating journey through the universe, guided by expert astronomers. Your astronomy guide will provide insights into the cosmos, making the experience educational and engaging for all ages. No matter the weather, our technology lets us bring the night sky indoors and show more detail than an outdoor tour. An accessible and engaging introduction to stargazing - perfect for first-time explorers, families, and seasoned stargazers alike.

Embark on a comfortable 4WD vehicle from from Lake Tekapo township and explore one of New Zealand's most breathtaking river valleys. Travel comfortably up an alpine river valley northwest of Lake Tekapo through stream crossings and fields of roaming wild Merino sheep. Travel through the steep mountainous walls of the river valley where old Musterer's huts still stand and age-old glaciers are omnipresent. Hear your guide explain the unique history and geology that has formed this stunning part of New Zealand, and why it is famed for offering some of the best scenery in the South Island. Stop in for a fresh cup of tea and snacks, and enjoy fabulous vantage points for the best photography opportunities in Lake Tekapo. Return through golden tussock high lands weaving through alpine lakes , before gaining unique landscapes over the turquoise colours of Lake Tekapo. Explore dramatic scenery of the southern alps and marvel at wonderful geological formations from the last ice age. You'll get the chance to spot some of NZ's rare birdlife such as The Black Stilt or Wrybill. This journey offers guests a chance to travel on a remote and private high country station offering guests a memorable, scenic and informative journey, they wouldn't be able to access otherwise.

Queenstown to Tekapo via Mt Cook, this small group, fully-guided tour combines two of the most stunning locations in the South Island with the time and options to enjoy the activities, unlike other tours. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety. While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.