Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Lake Tekapo

Watch this amazing video of Lake Tekapo in the winter of 2023. Explore the peaceful snowy scenery and clear water of this famous New Zealand spot. Enjoy the snowy mountains, the beautiful blue lake, and the calm atmosphere of winter. It’s an incredible view in New Zealand, definitely one of the best!

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In my opinion, the best time to visit Lake Tekapo is in the winter

During this season, Tekapo transforms into a magical winter wonderland. The beautiful blues and whites of the mountains and the lake create a picture-perfect winter scene like something out of a fairy tale.

This glacial lake is famous for its stunning turquoise waters, the towering mountains all around it, and the incredibly clear skies. It will feel like a winter’s paradise if you are lucky enough to be there on a crystal clear day.

Skiing on Roundhill is undoubtedly one of my best days skiing in New Zealand – ever!

Looking for the Church of the Good Shepherd in Tekapo?

Renowned for stargazing in New Zealand

Lake Tekapo is a premier dark sky reserve. Lake Tekapo and the surrounding Mackenzie Basin have earned International Dark Sky Reserve status as leaders in dark sky preservation.

This designation ensures minimal light pollution, making it one of the darkest New Zealand stargazing places. Lake Tekapo’s dark sky reserve status and clear, unpolluted skies make it an exceptional destination for stargazing. 

Stars symbolise the coming of the Maori New Year. The arrival of Matariki (the Maori name for a group of seven stars known as Pleiades) in early June.

Matariki has two meanings: Mata Riki means Tiny Eyes and Mata Ariki means Eyes of God.

In Tekapo, many companies offer Stargazing Tours; visit the info centre on the main road, and they will provide you with all the information you need. I found them amiable and loved to talk and help.

Our Rating

Lake Tekapo, winter 2023 just after snow fell – spectacular! One of the most beautiful places we have visited in New Zealand.

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