Experience Tekapo like a Local
Nestled in the heart of the South Island, Lake Tekapo is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, turquoise waters, and star-studded night skies. While most visitors make a beeline for the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd or soak in the Tekapo Hot Springs (which, let's be honest, is just as much about the 'gram as it is about relaxation), there’s so much more to this place if you know where to look.
If you’re staying at Lakes Edge Holiday Park, you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy everything Tekapo has to offer - without elbowing through crowds. Here’s how to truly experience Tekapo like a local (and maybe even fool the actual locals).
Start Your Day with a Scenic Stroll
Kick off your morning with a peaceful walk along the lakefront, right from Lakes Edge Holiday Park. The clear waters mirror the stunning mountain backdrop, offering a perfect, postcard-worthy start to the day. If you’re feeling ambitious (or just want to justify an extra pastry later), head up the Mt. John Summit Track for breathtaking 360-degree views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding Mackenzie Basin. Sure, most visitors drive up, but the real champions hike - earning both bragging rights and a serious excuse for a second breakfast.
Fuel Up Like a Local
Grab a coffee and breakfast at The Greedy Cow - a local favourite known for its top-notch coffee and hearty meals. If you prefer a grab-and-go situation, snag a fresh pastry from Jack Rabbit. Because let’s be honest, nothing fuels an adventure quite like buttery, flaky goodness.
For dinner, Blue Lake Eatery & Bar serves up local craft beers and tasty meals to match, while Kohan Japanese Restaurant is a must-visit for the freshest local Mt. Cook salmon.
Pedal Your Way to Hidden Gems
While most visitors stick to their cars, locals know that cycling is the way to go. Hire a bike and take on the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, which delivers stunning lake and mountain views with the added bonus of making you feel like an absolute champion of adventure. Plus, it’s a great way to balance out all those indulgent meals (or at least make you feel better about them).
Explore the Tekapo Backcountry
For an unforgettable, off-the-beaten-path experience, take a 4WD tour or horse trek into the rugged Mackenzie backcountry. You’ll be treated to dramatic landscapes, hidden valleys, and historic high-country stations. Just be warned: after a few hours of this, you might start entertaining the idea that you seriously should move here.
The Art of the Perfect Lakeside Picnic
Few things are as simple - or as satisfying, than a good picnic by the lake. Grab some fresh produce, a loaf of crusty bread, and some local cheese from the Tekapo Four Square, then find a quiet spot at Pines Beach. It’s a peaceful hideaway with stunning views and far fewer people than the usual hotspots. Bonus points if you manage to pack everything without forgetting the bottle opener.
Stargaze without the Price Tag
Lake Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best places in the world for stargazing. While guided observatory tours are fantastic, locals often opt for a more DIY approach - grabbing a blanket, a thermos of something warm (or something a little stronger), and heading to Cowan’s Hill or the lakefront for a more laid-back cosmic experience. You’ll never look at the night sky the same way again.
