Lake Tekapo is about three hours drive south-west of Christchurch in the Mackenzie Basin. The township faces north across the remarkable turquoise coloured lake to the mountainous drama of the Southern Alps. Lake Tekapo gets its intense milky-turquoise colour from the fine rock-flour (ground by glaciers) which is suspended in the water.

The unforgettable night sky reveals why Lake Tekapo has a reputation for clear air. Lake Tekapo offers a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking and skiing.