The stars, spread like fairy dust across the darkened sky, reflect off the water’s smooth surface. By night, the skies of Lake Tekapo are an experience within themselves; by day, the brilliant turquoise waters of the lake wash away any traces of stress, leaving you relaxed and reinvigorated.
A true natural wonder, Lake Tekapo is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations. Set against the mountainous backdrop of the Southern Alps, the township itself is situated at the southern end of the great lake and provides visitors with a wide range of activities and attractions.
If you’re searching for Lake Tekapo accommodation, look no further than Peppers Bluewater Resort. Set near the edge of the lake within the burgeoning Mount Cook and Mackenzie District, this Lake Tekapo resort is an ideal base for those who want to explore the natural beauty of this stunning region.
Activities & Attractions
If you love the great outdoors, you’ll be spoilt for choice when you visit the picturesque Lake Tekapo.
Lake Tekapo, which is Māori for 'night sleeping place’, is known to have some of the most spectacular night skies in all of New Zealand. For those who love to star-gaze; the skies here look as though they’ve been sprinkled with confetti. Book a guided tour and experience the very best of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. There are tours available to both Mt John University Observatory and Cowen’s Observatory on offer; not only educational, there’s something about the dark, star-lit sky that frees the spirit and lets your mind wander.
On the lake itself, enjoy a scenic cruise, explore the pristine waters at your own pace by kayak, or settle back with your rod in hand and fish for trout. Alternatively, thrill seekers can take to the water on skis, or get their adrenalin pumping with an action-packed jet boat ride.
Surrounding the lake is the beautiful alpine region which is perfect for those who love to hike. The Aoraki/Mount Cook Mackenzie Region is truly picturesque; on a clear day, many of the walks provide hikers with stunning views of the turquoise lake and beautiful jagged peaks of the Southern Alps. If you’d like to see the landscape from a different perspective, there are a number of tour providers that offer trail rides throughout the area – there’s no better way to enjoy this spectacular part of the world than on horseback.
After a long day of adventures, you’re sure to feel like a glass of wine and a bite to eat. Within Peppers Bluewater Resort itself, Rakinui Restaurant & Bar showcases the region’s finest produce. Awarded the 2014 New Zealand Beef and Lamb Excellence Award, this really is fine dining at its best. Away from the resort, Lake Tekapo has a wide array of quality dining establishments on offer; enjoy a mouth-watering hamburger, get a taste for rich Italian fare, or sample some authentic Japanese cuisine. For those who appreciate a fine drop, the South Canterbury Food & Wine Trail is only two and a half hours away. Commonly referred to as the food bowl of the south island, South Canterbury is just over the mountains from Lake Tekapo – there are many tours available that depart the area on a regular basis.
Relaxing comes easily at Lake Tekapo; the untouched natural beauty of this glorious region is enough to set anyone’s mind at ease. If you’re looking to take that relaxation to another level, the day spa at Tekapo Springs offers a wide range of indulgent treatment options – from rejuvenating facials through to reinvigorating spa packages.
Seasonal Activities
Lake Tekapo remains a popular tourist destination during winter; this picturesque region still has plenty to offer over the cooler months.
Many tourists take to the slopes of Roundhill Ski Field, a popular ski area that offers breathtaking views of Aoraki Mt Cook, the Southern Alps and Lake Tekapo itself. Catering to complete beginners and more advanced skiers and snowboarders, this fantastic ski area features the longest and steepest rope tow in the world, as well as Australasia’s biggest vertical drop of 783 metres.
After a long day on the slopes, soothe those tired muscles in the relaxing hot pools at Tekapo Springs. With the water temperature ranging between 36 and 40 degrees Celsius, there’s no better place to warm your soul during the cooler weather.
Lake Tekapo Accommodation
Peppers Bluewater Resort is the perfect place to relax and unwind during your stay in Lake Tekapo. Resort features include breathtaking views out over the lake itself, as well as interior furnishings that are inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Choose from a number of Studios, one bedroom suites and villas, two bedroom suites and villas, and for larger groups, the spacious Three Bedroom Lakeview Villa. If you’re looking for the perfect base from which to explore this magical region, look no further than Peppers Bluewater Resort.