Best things to do in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
It’s one of the most scenic and beautiful iconic places to visit in South Island. You won’t be disappointed when you choose lake Tekapo.
There are plenty of things to do in Lake Tekapo, and even though it is a relatively small town, this does not detract from the beauty and serene peacefulness of the area.
Tekapo is said to have the bluest water in New Zealand… and so far, it seems pretty accurate! It’s stunning!
We spent several days in Tekapo and found we had the best time just enjoying the serenity and history of the place. And of course, Tekapo Springs.
Think beautiful cyan blue waters, incredible, jagged mountains, dating back past the Jurassic age, history as old as the colonial times itself, and of course, we can’t forget the incredible dark Night reserve, meaning you’ll see some of the most beautiful stargazing experiences worldwide.
This blog post may contain affiliate links.
Quick Mini Guide To Tekapo
Don’t have a lot of time? Here’s a quick mini guide to Tekapo.
Where to stay
Top sights
- Stargazing in the dark sky reserve or Mount John observatory
- The stunning blue lake itself
- Book an air safari
- Go offroading
How to get there
Stay connected
Purchase an eSim with Airalo on your phone – Use discount code A&M3 for $3 off your first purchase.
Have a look at some of my other Aotearoa / New Zealand travel blogs for attractions nearby on your South Island itinerary or North Island road trip.
Not sure where to go? Have a look at my article on North VS South Island New Zealand, which is better?
- Glamping on South Island
- Things to do in Akaroa
- Wanaka lavender farm
- Onsen hot pools
- Akaroa Dolphin Watching
This article may contain affiliate links.
Best activities & tours on South Island
Here are some of the best New Zealand South Island tours! I always compare tours on Viator and Get Your Guide to check prices and different tour availability.
| Jet Boat & Wilderness experience – If you’re after an adrenaline experience then this is for you! Milford Sound Cruises – The best way to see the unofficial 8th wonder of the world. Franz Josef Glacier tours – one of the most iconic, stunning, incredible things to experience in South Island! Glenorchy & Paradise half day tour – if you’re after some beautiful sight seeing this is for you! Glow worm caves – Dont miss the iconic glow worm caves in South Island! Scenic Flights – One of the most iconic experiences in all of South Island, New Zealand. |
How far is Lake Tekapo from Queenstown?
The distance from Queenstown to Lake Tekapo is approximately 256 kilometers (159 miles) via State Highway 8, which typically takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes to drive under normal traffic conditions.
Read my full guide on the scenic drive from Queenstown to Lake Tekapo! There are some cool places to visit, including the Omarama Clay Cliffs and the Onsen hot pools!
How far is Lake Tekapo from Christchurch?
The distance from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo is approximately 227 kilometers (141 miles), and the journey typically takes around 3 hours to drive via State Highway 1 and State Highway 79, under normal traffic conditions.
Car & Campervan Rental
It’s recommended that you either hire yourself, a camper van or a car, so you can explore South Island at your heart’s desire on an epic road trip NZ South Island.
Depending on what time of year it can be really busy so it is worth looking at your stay well in advance. Bear in mind cost of hotels on your itinerary South Island New Zealand.
Read more about camping in Lake Tekapo.
Best Things to do in Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo is one of my all time favourite places to visit in South Island New Zealand. It’s just beautiful. Serene. Picturesque. And you don’t need to worry about dangerous animals in New Zealand because there are virtually none!
It’s also hard to explain how blue the water is, it’s insane! Have a browse for best things to do. But first up, have a look at the hotels.
Best hotels at Lake Tekapo
There are a tonne of really beautiful hotels right on the waterfront OR overlooking the lake (it’s not hard to miss the view; it’s pretty stunning!).
Have a look at the Peppers Bluewater Resort – floor to ceiling windows for your viewing pleasure! If you’re on a bit more of a budget, have a look at Lake’s Edge Holiday Parks, a great place for families and plenty of holiday homes to choose from.
Tekapo hot Springs
One of the main things that actually drew me to Tekapo was the infamous hot Springs! Definitely one of my favourite things to do in Lake Tekapo!
Feel free to read my whole guide on Tekapo Hot Springs here, but this beautiful spa comes with five different pools at different debts and different temperatures. Meaning you can soak all day to your heart’s delight.
They also have a steam room sauna and a plunge pool which is perfect for your everyday needs and the plunge pool is kept at the same temperature as Lake Tekapo in the winter which is around 8°C.
If that wasn’t enough, there is also a bunch of other activities to do depending on what season you’re in so in the summer you will have activities like mini golf and a incredible adrenaline inducing, 150 meter drop slide.
In the winter, you’ll find a snow tube, park and iceskating rink and areas to play in the snow with snowman and all sorts.
After that, make sure you sit down at their café and help yourself to their delicious tea, coffees and healthy food bowls .
Lake Tekapo Stargazing
I couldn’t work out why they were so many different tour options available for stargazing in Tekapo. Why is it one of the most popular things to do in Lake Tekapo?
I decided to put on one in the hopes of understanding a little bit more, and to my present surprise, I discovered that techno is right in the heart of the second largest dark night reserve worldwide, meaning that a huge region in South Ireland has almost 0 light pollution.
It’s set in the prime place for stargazing, and right in the centre of the stunning Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Night Reserve the second largest in the world, this means that there is very little light pollution.
You will not find any planes passing over the region at night thanks to the dark sky reserve!
This makes it a great place to do stargazing experiences.
One of my stargazing experiences was actually at Tekapo Springs. We did stargazing from one of the thermal pools after a session telescopes at the various galaxies and stars in the night sky.
Have a look at the full review linked above of what to expect, but I highly recommend doing this activity !
If you’re wondering why all the lights are red, then it’s to do with light pollution!
Red and yellow lights do not interfere with light pollution and viewing of the night sky, especially with the naked eye.
When you arrive, you are advised to follow the red light to reception and throughout the night you will notice that all lights inside the building an out are all a red issue hence the photos.
This is great to ensure first viewing of the night sky as possible.
Mount John observatory
If you’re after another stargazing experience, and don’t miss the Mount John observatory, which is part of the university, which dedicates a lot of its resources to studying the night sky.
Thanks to the incredible dark night reserve, it is an amazing place to stop for this once the lifetime experience in South Island New Zealand. Want to find a dark night reserve near you? Have a look at the dark night reserve checker!
The observatory is right at the top of Mount John, and star gazing opportunities here are pretty amazing thanks to the region’s dark skies, which are protected by the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve designation. This means there is minimal light pollution, and pretty crystal-clear views of the night sky that are among the best in the world. It’s the second biggest dark sky reserve in the world!
Also, you need to visit the famous Astro Cafe!
Visitor Information
- Location: The observatory overlooks Lake Tekapo, with some of the greatest access to the stars but also breathtaking daytime views of the surrounding landscape, including the cerrulean blue waters of Lake Tekapo and the pretty mountains.
- Research and Stargazing: Home to several telescopes, including some used for professional astronomical research, Mount John Observatory is at the forefront of studying the cosmos. It also offers public stargazing tours, allowing visitors to marvel at the wonders of the universe through powerful telescopes.
- Astro Café: The Astro Café, located near the observatory, is one of the highest cafés in New Zealand, which is simply, cool bragging rights. Needless to say it has stunning panoramic views of Tekapo & the Mackenzie Basin. It’s a perfect spot to relax after a night of stargazing or during a day visit to the mount.
- Dark Sky Reserve: The observatory’s location within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is crucial for its operations. The reserve’s strict light pollution controls ensure that the observatory benefits from dark skies, making it an ideal place for researchers and tourists.
- Guided Tours: For those interested in learning more about the stars, guided night tours are available. These tours provide an educational and awe-inspiring experience, making astronomy accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate about sharing the wonders of the universe.
If you book onto a tour
- No Light Pollution: Do not using flashlights / mobile phones, to preserve the quality of stargazing for everyone.
- Dress Warmly: Nights can be cold, even in summer, so it’s advisable to dress in warm layers and bring a hat and gloves to ensure a comfortable experience.
- Book in Advance: Stargazing tours and visits to the observatory can be popular, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.
Mount John Summit Track
If you’re looking for active things to do in Lake Tekapo, then look no further! This is not too rough going for a hike but it can be steep in areas! The Mt John summit track is around 90 minutes and you’ll hike through different landscapes. At the summit’s top, after you navigate the zig-zagged and steep terrains, take a moment to sit back and relax and enjoy the spectacular views from up here!
This track will take you hiking through terrains including hills and forests, but be ware of the bugs. Bring inspect repellant and SPF (esp in summer!)
Next, enjoy in the breathtaking views of Lake Tekapo from above as your reward. Visiting Lake Tekapo for the stargazing is a good reason as any!
Lake Tekapo lupins
If you happen to be travelling to Lake Tekapo between the months of November and February, then you are absolutely in luck because you might be in for a chance to see the incredible purple flowers that are becoming famous in New Zealand .
Despite not being a native flower to New Zealand, it’s now become synonymous with the dreamy pastel coloured photos, you see of flowers, lining the beautiful blue lakes with gorgeous mountains in the background.
Read the full guide here of where to see the Lake Tekapo Lupins.
Take a trip to Lake Pukaki & Mt Cook
Just down the road is Lake Pukaki, and of course, the most incredible viewpoint of Mount Cook!
You’ll definitely want to add this to your Google Maps favourites because Lake Pukaki offers one of those breathtaking views, not just of the lake but also of New Zealand’s tallest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook.
If you’re doing a road trip from Lake Tekapo to Mt Cook, then have a look at the iconic places to stop at!
Aoraki, the Maori name for Mount Cook, stands at a majestic height of 3724 meters and dominates the stunning landscape, especially visible on a clear day.
The route to the Lake Pukaki viewing point is clearly marked, so no matter which direction you’re coming from, you’ll find signs guiding you there.
One tip to keep in mind is the advantage of bringing a zoom lens to capture the mountain in all its glory in your photos and videos. We found a 200 mm lens, with a crop factor of 1.5, to be effective; thus, a full-frame lens (equivalent to 300mm) might require a bit more zoom to achieve a similar result.
While Mike stayed near the car park, I ventured up a small hill nearby, and from there, he captured me at the Lake Pukaki Viewing point, allowing us to get this particular shot. Definitely one of the best things to do in Lake Tekapo (even though it’s a short drive away, it’s worth it!!)
Take a Scenic Flight over Mount Cook
It seems to be the done thing in New Zealand; taking a scenic flight over the Southern Alps in New Zealand.
This shot here is of the Cessna 208 Grand Caravan, with two of the highest mountains of NZ in the background – Mount Cook on the left and Mount Tasman right.
Book onto the Grand Traverse scenic flight with Air Safaris at Lake Tekapo!
The Grand Traverse is apparently called the flight of a lifetime, and is a mind blowing experience! You get to explore the incredible world heritage Aoraki /Mount Cook and Westland National Parks by air.
New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine scenery and highest mountain is visible from above, from snowy mountain ranges and turquoise lakes, to epic glaciers and amazing ice fields flowing through West Coast rainforests, to the wild Tasman Sea!
Tekapo Petting Zoo
The Tekapo Petting Zoo is the cutest little place to take the family. Every entry comes with animal feed, meaning you can feed all the animals at your leisure.
There are a tonne of cute animals for you to play with. If you attend during spring and summer, you can even feed the lambs some milk!
It’s this cozy little spot where you can get up close and personal with some adorable animals. They’ve got everything from Merino Sheep and pigs to lambs, alpacas, llamas, and even rabbits.
You’ve got to meet Gin & Tonic, the famous Kune-Kune pigs. They’re these cute, small pigs from New Zealand with the funniest short snouts. Super friendly and chill, they’re just the best to hang around with, especially since they’re all about that good veggie, fruit, and nut life.
And don’t even get me started on the alpacas. These fluffy buddies are not just about their incredible wool; they’re social butterflies and super curious. They come in all sorts of colours and are just a joy to be around. The petting zoo here lets you get right in there with them, which is honestly such a treat.
So, yeah, if you’re around, definitely swing by the petting zoo. It’s a blast!
Price
Adults: $20
Children: $10
4WD offroading – Tekapo Adventures
If you want to experience the scenic views of Tekapo then why not hop in or on one of the four wheel drive tours with Tekapo Adventures and head to the stunning wilderness with a guide?
It’s a pretty cool way to experience New Zealand, especially with some of the most beautiful scenic views on the planet.
One of the more luxury ways of exploring the local area.
Yes, it involves off-roading into the mountains, crossing through high county farms and stopping at the best views for scenic picks.
Solar System Walk
This walk is very cool and you should definitely do it!
It’s a scale model of the solar system, designed to give visitors a tangible sense of the distances between planets and the size of the solar system itself.
It’s an engaging and informative way for people of all ages to learn about astronomy and the planets, all while enjoying the stunning natural landscape of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding Mackenzie District.
- Scale Model: The walk is set to a scale where walking steps represent millions of kilometres in space, allowing visitors to grasp the immense distances in our solar system.
- Planetary Displays: Along the walk, there are markers or installations representing the Sun and each of the planets, including informative plaques that provide facts about each celestial body. These markers are placed at distances proportional to their positions in the actual solar system, based on the walk’s scale.
- Starting Point: The walk typically begins near the Lake Tekapo township, with the Sun represented near the start of the track, and extends outwards through the solar system. The exact starting point and route can vary, so it’s a good idea to check the latest information or maps available in the area.
- Education: It’s an excellent educational tool, providing insights into not just the planets and their order, but also offering a physical representation of space that is difficult to visualise otherwise.
- Scenic Beauty: Set against the backdrop of Lake Tekapo’s stunning turquoise waters, the Southern Alps, and the Mackenzie Basin’s dark sky reserve, the walk is as beautiful as it is informative.
church of the good Shepherd
The Church of the Good Shepherd is said to be the most photographed building in South Island. Why, you might ask?
Besides the fact it’s a serene and picturesque right on the edge of Lake Tekapo, in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, this was apparently the first church built in the Lake MacKenzie basin, so it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Lake Tekapo.
This iconic church, built in 1935 by pioneer settlers was a place of peace and worship for them.
Historical Significance
- Construction: The church was constructed to honor the early settlers of the Mackenzie Basin. Its rustic design and use of local stone help it blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
- Dedication: It is dedicated to the Good Shepherd, reflecting the area’s pastoral heritage.
Architectural Features
- Design: The church’s simple yet elegant design features a traditional stone structure, making it a perfect subject for photography.
- Interior: Inside, the altar window frames a stunning view of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps, creating a peaceful and contemplative space.
Location and Views
- Scenic Setting: Situated on the lake’s edge, the church offers panoramic views of the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, the Southern Alps, and the famous lupins that bloom in vibrant colors during the summer months.
- Stargazing: The area around Lake Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, making the church an ideal spot for stargazing.
Visitor Information
- Popularity: The Church of the Good Shepherd is one of the most photographed landmarks in New Zealand, attracting visitors from all over the world.
- Respectful Visits: As a place of worship and reflection, visitors are encouraged to respect the sanctity of the church, especially during services or weddings.
The Sheepdog Memorial
This is a short but sweet activity, but you should definitely add this as one of the things to do in Lake Tekapo! The Sheepdog Memorial at Lake Tekapo is a cute tribute to the role that working dogs have played in New Zealand’s sheep farming industry. As they should!
It sits overlooking the stunning azure blue waters of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains.
This bronze statue is not just a tourist attraction but a symbol of recognition for the hardworking sheepdogs that have been an integral part of pastoral farming across the country.
Add to one of the Cairns rock piles
Now, admittedly, this is a little bit of an odd one, but it’s basically a right of passage in Lake Tekapo.
These are the rock stacks of Tekapo, called Cairns.
Visitors often build these cairns as a way of leaving a personal mark on the landscape without damaging the ecosystem, and engaging with what they perceive as a local tradition, even though this practice does not have historical significance in this particular area.
It’s a bit of a tradition seen in many parts of the world where natural landscapes attract significant numbers of visitors.
Lake Tekapo Golf Course
If you’re hitting Lake Tekapo, you’ve absolutely got to swing by the golf course there.
It’s not just about playing a round; it’s the views that’ll get you.
Seriously, teeing off with the backdrop of those stunning turquoise waters and of course, the views the Southern Alps is something else. The Cairns Alpine Resort Golf Course is also the highest 9-hole course golf course in New Zealand, at a crazy 794 m above sea level!
The course itself is pretty laid-back but still offers a bit of a challenge, which is perfect whether you’re looking to seriously play or just want to whack a few balls and soak in the scenery. Frankly, I’m terrible, but Mike is great at it, but it was good fun all the same!
Plus, it’s usually not too crowded, so you can take your time and really enjoy it.
Trust me, even if you’re not big into golf (like me), playing a round at Lake Tekapo Golf Course at The Cairns Hotel is an experience you don’t want to miss.
There are no set tee times , pop in any time from 9am-5pm.
9 or 18 Holes – $35 per person
There’s also the MacKenzie Golf Course you might want to pop to too!
The Balmoral Golf Course, managed by the Mackenzie Golf Club is around 4km away from Lake Tekapo, it is said to also have beautiful views and a 9-hole course for anyone who’s up for a bit of a harder challenging round of golf.
Cowans Hill Walkway
If you’re after hiking, then there are plenty of places to hike around Lake Tekapo, one of which is the Cowan Hill walkway!
This route will take you through the town centre, and around the lake with excellent views of the surrounding landscape, mountains and scenery from Cowan hill.
Have a look at some of my other Aotearoa / New Zealand travel guides for things to do in North and South Island!
The Cowan’s Hill pathway begins at the bridge’s eastern end as you approach Tekapo.
This hike is around 1 hour and 30 minutes, with mild slopes that are pretty easy, to be honest.
The landscape changes quite a lot as you walk, which is great and keeps things interesting. The route ambles above the river, with lovely views of the lake. It snakes through pine woodlands, with areas of refreshing shade on hot summers days.
But the best part has to be at the very top of Cowan’s Hill; you get views for days! This is the best spot to sit back with a snack, look out over the the McKenzie Basin, and the crazy blue lake and peaks surrounding in all directions.
After this, head towards Pines Beach (it’s optional, but lovely!).
Dark Sky Project
Of course you can’t miss the Dark Sky Project. It’s another one of the the pioneering astronomical initiatives that offers tourists a glimpse into the night’s sky. It’s an unparalleled stargazing experience in the southern hemisphere. It’s right in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the project capitalises on the region’s exceptionally dark skies, free from light pollution, making it one of the best places in the world to observe the night sky.
Key Features of the Dark Sky Project:
- Location: Lake Tekapo, within the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, the largest dark sky reserve in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Facilities: The project includes state-of-the-art observatories, such as the University of Canterbury Mt. John Observatory, equipped with powerful telescopes for deep sky viewing.
- Experiences: It offers a range of stargazing tours and astronomical experiences suitable for all ages and levels of interest, from casual observers to astronomy enthusiasts.
- Educational Focus: The Dark Sky Project emphasises education and conservation, aiming to increase awareness about the importance of dark skies for both cultural and scientific reasons.
- Cultural Integration: The experiences often incorporate Māori astronomy, sharing the sky lore and star navigation knowledge of the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand.
Importance:
The Dark Sky Project is not just a tourist attraction; it’s actually a conservation effort. By promoting dark sky preservation and educating the public about the impacts of light pollution, it contributes to global efforts to protect our night skies for future generations. Additionally, it serves as a reminder of the cultural and historical significance of the stars to New Zealand’s Māori people, integrating traditional knowledge with modern science.
Fish & Chips
Try the world famous Fish & Chips!
If you find yourself wandering around the gorgeous Lake Tekapo, you’ve got to try the fish & chips here—they’re legendary!
It’s not just about the crispy batter or the perfectly cooked fish; it’s the whole experience. Imagine sitting by the lake, with views of the Southern Alps in the background, munching on some of the freshest, most yummy fish & chips you’ve ever had.
It’s a simple pleasure, but trust me, it’s an absolute must-do while you’re here! The fish is fresh!
You won’t regret it!
Skiing: Tekapo in Winter
If you’re thinking about hitting the slopes while you’re in Lake Tekapo, you’re in for a real treat, it’s one of the best places on South Island for it!
Skiing here is something else. The views from the runs are absolutely unreal – you’ve got the lake on one side and those epic Southern Alps on the other.
Roundhill and Mt. Dobson are the go-to spots around here.
Roundhill is super family-friendly and great for beginners and intermediates, but it also has some of the longest and steepest runs in the Southern Hemisphere if you’re up for a challenge.
Seriously, the rope tow up to the top of the world (feels like it, anyway) is an adventure in itself. And then there’s Mt. Dobson, which is a bit more laid back and less crowded. It’s got a real chill vibe, wide-open spaces, and runs that suit all levels, plus the snow is usually top-notch.
Don’t worry if you’re not bringing your own gear; both places have rental options. And the ski schools are fantastic – super friendly instructors who’ll have you shredding in no time if you’re a bit rusty or just starting out.
After a day on the slopes, nothing beats heading back to Tekapo Springs.
Soaking in those hot pools with the stars above you and your muscles thanking you – it’s the perfect end to a perfect day.
Lake Alexandrina Fishing and camping
If you’re looking for a spot that’s off the beaten path in Tekapo, you’ve gotta check out Lake Alexandrina which is just round the corner from the town and is actually where we went camping after picking up camping supplies in Queenstown!
Read all about Camping in Lake Tekapo.
The facilities here are fairly basic, but it depends what you use it for. We arrived super late at night and left first thing in the morning.
There’s a little honesty box where you are asked to leave 20 NZD.
It’s an awesome high country lake about 10km from the town centre, and it’s perfectly quaint.
If fishing is your thing, this place is like hitting the jackpot.
It’s stocked with brown trout and salmon, and the lake is pretty deep too. It’s essentially the fisherman’s dream.
There’s no motorised boats allowed, so it’s super peaceful—perfect for spending a chill day or even the whole weekend just fishing and relaxing.
Lake Tekapo FAQs
Q: What are the best times of year to visit Lake Tekapo?
A: The best times to visit Lake Tekapo are during the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Summer (December to February) is also popular, but it can be crowded.
Q: Are there any local festivals or events worth checking out in Lake Tekapo?
A: Yes, Lake Tekapo hosts several events throughout the year, including the Dark Sky Project events for stargazing, the Lake Tekapo Snow Sports Festival in winter, and various cultural festivals.
Q: Can you swim in Lake Tekapo, or is it too cold?
A: You can swim in Lake Tekapo during the summer months, but the water is quite cold due to its glacial source. It’s recommended to wear a wetsuit for longer swims. In winter it is like 7 degrees, so very very chilly!
Q: What are some recommended restaurants or eateries in Lake Tekapo?
A: Some popular dining options in Lake Tekapo include Reflections Restaurant, The Greedy Cow, and Kohan Japanese Restaurant, offering a range of cuisines to suit different tastes.
Q: Are there any day trips or excursions from Lake Tekapo that you would recommend?
A: Yes, you can take day trips from Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook National Park, the Tasman Glacier, or the Mackenzie Basin to explore the stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.
Q: Is it necessary to rent a car to explore Lake Tekapo?
A: While having a car gives you more flexibility, it’s not necessary. There are tour operators and shuttle services that offer guided tours and transport to popular attractions.
Q: What is a must-do experience?
A: Stargazing tours with the Dark Sky Project, scenic flights over the Southern Alps, and hiking or biking trails around the lake are popular activities in Lake Tekapo.
Q: What are some hidden gems in Lake Tekapo?
A: While the Church of the Good Shepherd and Collie’s Dam are well-known, consider visiting the Tekapo Springs Skating Rink for a unique experience. The Cowans Hill Walkway also offers stunning views that are often overlooked by tourists.
Q: What should I know before planning a trip to Lake Tekapo?
A: It’s wise to book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak seasons. Additionally, check the weather forecast as conditions can change rapidly, particularly in the mountainous areas around Lake Tekapo.
Tekapo Weather
Here is the average weather on the South Island by each month. The South Island of New Zealand experiences a diverse climate, with the west coast receiving high rainfall and the east coast being drier and cooler.
Seasonal temperatures vary widely, from warm, sunny summers to cold, snowy winters, especially in the mountainous regions.
South Island Weather in January
Average temperature: 15°C (59°F)
Average rainy days: 8
Average daylight hours: 15
Average sunrise time: 6:15 AM
Average sunset time: 9:30 PM
South Island Weather in February
Average temperature: 14°C (57°F)
Average rainy days: 7
Average daylight hours: 14
Average sunrise time: 6:45 AM
Average sunset time: 9:00 PM
South Island Weather in March
Average temperature: 12°C (54°F)
Average rainy days: 8
Average daylight hours: 12
Average sunrise time: 7:15 AM
Average sunset time: 8:15 PM
South Island Weather in April
Average temperature: 9°C (48°F)
Average rainy days: 9
Average daylight hours: 11
Average sunrise time: 7:45 AM
Average sunset time: 6:45 PM
South Island Weather in May
Average temperature: 6°C (43°F)
Average rainy days: 10
Average daylight hours: 9
Average sunrise time: 8:15 AM
Average sunset time: 5:30 PM
South Island Weather in June
Average temperature: 4°C (39°F)
Average rainy days: 11
Average daylight hours: 9
Average sunrise time: 8:30 AM
Average sunset time: 5:15 PM
South Island Weather in July
Average temperature: 3°C (37°F)
Average rainy days: 11
Average daylight hours: 9
Average sunrise time: 8:30 AM
Average sunset time: 5:30 PM
South Island Weather in August
Average temperature: 5°C (41°F)
Average rainy days: 11
Average daylight hours: 10
Average sunrise time: 7:45 AM
Average sunset time: 6:00 PM
South Island Weather in September
Average temperature: 7°C (45°F)
Average rainy days: 10
Average daylight hours: 12
Average sunrise time: 6:45 AM
Average sunset time: 6:30 PM
South Island Weather in October
Average temperature: 9°C (48°F)
Average rainy days: 9
Average daylight hours: 13
Average sunrise time: 7:15 AM
Average sunset time: 7:45 PM
South Island Weather in November
Average temperature: 11°C (52°F)
Average rainy days: 8
Average daylight hours: 14
Average sunrise time: 6:00 AM
Average sunset time: 8:30 PM
South Island Weather in December
Average temperature: 13°C (55°F)
Average rainy days: 9
Average daylight hours: 15
Average sunrise time: 5:45 AM
Average sunset time: 9:15 PM
About the Author
 | Hi, I’m Adriana! I’m constantly searching for the best places to travel to so you don’t have to! Think hidden gems but all over the world. That means I’m constantly on the road and exploring new places to visit and I have a love for photography, so it made sense to write travel guides on all the places I visit. I was born in Australia and lived in New Zealand, Poland, Dubai and England growing up and I decided to take my love of travel to the next level! Read more about me here and see my articles here. |
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