- Be in awe of the night sky above you from the beautiful Lake Tekapo
- Look through an extremely powerful 9-25 inch telescope to see the stars and get images from our eVscope 2 (a telescope and astrocamera-in-one)
- Indulge in hot chocolate, blankets, and roasted marshmallows
- Take your memories with you with complimentary photos taken during the tour
- Hear stories from your guide and learn facts about the night sky

Chameleon Stargazing Shared Tour

Guided tour to the stars and night sky, enhancing your experience with abundant opportunities for questions and answers. Immerse yourself in naked-eye observations and telescope views with our 14″ Meade telescope, exploring stars and constellations. Capture a personalized moment with an individual photograph of you and your party under the enchanting starry sky. Enjoy an intimate setting with our low guest-to-guide ratio, capped at ten people, ensuring a personalized stargazing experience. Travel hassle-free with a complimentary shuttle from our check-in office to our private stargazing location, bundled with warm winter jackets.

Silver River Stargazing Experience in Lake Tekapo

Our most popular astronomy experience at the world-renowned astronomical research centre. Prepare for an awe-inspiring evening of discovery.

Immerse yourself in the stunning surrounds, pristine night skies and sophisticated viewing technologies as our expert guides share the science and stories of our Southern Skies.

High atop Mount John's 1,029 metre peak, you'll be at the heart of the Southern Hemisphere's largest International Dark Sky Reserve. Every night sky reveals something new. The incredible Milky Way. Far-off planets. Star clusters, solar systems, constellations. You might even glimpse a distant galaxy.

Don't miss New Zealand's premier stargazing experience. Exclusive to Dark Sky Project, the Summit Experience at Mt John Observatory is in partnership with the University of Canterbury.

Mount John Observatory Stargazing Experience, Tekapo

Explore Tekapo's backcountry wilderness on a Scenic 4WD Tour, offering private access into some of The Mackenzie's most beautiful High Country Stations. Discover the best scenery & landscapes within Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki / Mackenzie area. You'll explore impressive natural beauty beyond Tekapo lakefront for unique photography opportunities, educational commentary and an incredible High Country experience situated in the heart of New Zealand's iconic scenery.  
 • Remote Backcountry 4WD High Country Station Tour through Braemar Station 
 • Stunning and unique views of Mt Cook & Mt Tasman, The Main Divide & Lake Pukaki & The Ben Ohau Mountains 
 • Breathtaking scenery of New Zealand's most impressive landscapes 
 • Educational information on the area's unique landforms & species & ecology within The Mackenzie 
 • Feed farm animals such as Sheep, Angus Cattle & Red Deer 
 • Refreshments & Snacks

Scenic 4WD Tour Lake Tekapo Backcountry

Get ready to embark on a journey 13.8 billion years in the making. A treat for the senses, the Dark Sky Experience brings science, Māori astronomy and fascinating multi-media installations together in a 'Big Bang' of awe and inspiration. 

Using incredible immersive visual displays, we explore the science based narrative of how living beings came to be, and delve into the depths of the Milky Way. Get up close with the impressive 125 year old recently restored Brashear telescope.

Thought-provoking, educational and entertaining, this journey is sure to change your outlook in the best possible way. A world first – this indoor experience is a must on all itineraries whether you're staying in Tekapo or just stopping by.

Dark Sky Indoor Maori Cultural Astronomy Experience

Explore stunning private lands that are otherwise off-limits to the public, and travel into the Cass Valley alpine river valley just minutes away from Lake Tekapo town. This is a unique opportunity to explore untouched backcountry landscapes of The Mackenzie Basin. The tour takes place on the western side of Lake Tekapo, offering a world of Natural wonder and beauty showcasing an area famous for its expansive tussock plains, pristine lakes, glaciers and mountainous landscapes. The landscapes are iconic and provide some of the best views in New Zealand's South Island, away from the busy lakefront.

The overall naturalness of the rocky steep scree slides, the U-shaped valleys carved by glaciation, waterfalls, glaciers, lateral moraines and tussock- clad terraces, overwhelm the senses and ignite the wonder of such a supremely stunning and unique landscape. An authentic High Country scenic tour awaits you !

Lake Tekapo Scenic Wilderness Cass Valley Tour

The ultimate in stellar relaxation, Tekapo Star Gazing is the only guided stargazing and hot pools tour in New Zealand! It combines the stunning Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve with the soul-warming hot pools of Tekapo Springs. A 1.5-hour experience, the first half of the tour begins with an introduction to the night sky using high-powered telescopes and a fascinating combination of astronomy and storytelling. The second half is spent floating in our 37.5-38.5 degree hot pool on inflatable hammocks, gazing up at the night sky as our guides continue to entertain with cultural and scientific stories of the sky. The tour includes complimentary towels, robes and hot drinks.

Tekapo Star Gazing Tour - Soak in the Stars

-IMPORTANT UPDATE-
*Temporary tour conditions due to partial closure of the Hooker Valley Track.
* Shuttle operates every day with capacity up to 30 passengers.

Experience the freedom of exploring Mount Cook National Park on a day trip with us!

- Highly recommended for the following people -

Hikers and Adventurers: For those seeking outdoor adventures and
hiking opportunities, our one-day trip is the perfect choice. You have enough
time to complete the Hooker Valley Track at your own pace.

Photography Enthusiasts: If capturing picturesque landscapes is your passion, the scenic views along the way and at Mount Cook will provide you with ample opportunities for remarkable photographs.

Family and Friends: The tour caters to all age groups, making it a great choice for families and friends to create lasting memories together.

Day Trip: Lake Tekapo to Mt Cook National Park

The ultimate stargazing experience. Enjoy maximum time under the stars whilst enhancing your knowledge of the Southern skies at our private observatory.

Designed specifically with stargazing in mind, Cowan's Observatory is the perfect introductory stargazing experience. Over 75 minutes, you'll explore the stars with both the naked eye and powerful telescopes. 

Every night offers a new spectacle. From the Milky Way to distant galaxies beyond, our guides use handheld lasers to show you the best of the evolving night sky. They'll help you discover the stars and planets, and understand what it all means. 

Nestled in a giant purpose-built crater to provide maximum wind protection and minimum light pollution, our expert astronomy guides will enhance your knowledge and understanding of our Southern Skies as you admire and ponder the possibilities through our powerful optical telescopes.

Stargazing Experience at Cowan's Private Observatory

Lupin Flower Tour Through The Mackenzie's Stunning Landscapes. 

Journey with us through remote High Country Stations, which are private farms surrounded by rugged mountain ranges and sweeping valleys. You'll capture both Lupin Flowers far away from the crowds and in more secret locations known only to locals.
Best Time to Visit : Mid November - Early January. 

Capture Lupins & Snow-capped peaks, glacial rivers, and golden tussock grasslands offering incredible photo opportunities.

Our tour takes you into private properties, so you'll get to experience secluded lupin spots with some inaccessible to the general public.

Adventure with Comfort , the 4WD vehicles are equipped for off-road travel, making it a comfortable yet adventurous way to explore Lake Tekapo's backcountry.
This tour is 
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it an ideal family-friendly activity.

Lupin Flowers Tour Lake Tekapo

Discover the Mt. Hay Farm Experience, where New Zealand's high-country farming heritage comes alive! Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Lake Tekapo, this authentic farm tour invites you to step into the world of Merino sheep, renowned for their luxurious wool. Witness the skill and precision of a live sheep-shearing demonstration. Watch at the incredible partnership between farmer and dog during a sheepdog herding display, as the dogs expertly guide the flock across the rugged terrain.

It's an opportunity to connect with the land, the animals, and the hardworking traditions that have shaped the region for generations. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone curious about farm life, this experience offers something truly unique. Don't miss your chance to immerse yourself in the charm of high-country farming—book your Mt. Hay adventure today and create memories to last a lifetime!

Mt. Hay Farm Experience Genuine Country Farming(Carbon Positive)

Embark on a thrilling 4WD adventure with local guides in Lake Tekapo. Explore Mt Hay Station, a century-old 25,000-acre family farm. Navigate challenging 4WD tracks, traverse Edward stream, and witness stunning High Country views.

Mount Hay Station Guided 4WD Tour in Lake Tekapo

Exclusive access to private high-country farmland on Mt Hay Station

Scenic off-road journey in a comfortable Polaris Expedition

Stunning views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps

Local guide with stories of farming life, wildlife, and the region's history

Small group experience (max 4 guests) for a personal adventure

Mt Hay Off-Road Expedition

Our family has farmed this land since 1928 and we love sharing our home and lifestyle with visitors from all over the world. 

Lake Tekapo Petting Zoo is located on the original grounds of the historic Mt John Homestead and Farm Yard, a 5-10 minute walk from the village center.

If you're looking for a hands-on animal experience then come and say hello to our farmyard favorites. Pet and feed our Merino Sheep, Kune Kune Pigs, Lambs, Alpacas, Calf and rabbits. Learn their names and personalities and let our friendly staff teach you about the habits of each animal and explain how we care for them. 

The admission price include a complimentary bag of animal feed and additional feed can be purchased for $10 per bag.



Lake Tekapo Petting Zoo 

Set out on your very own quest to discover glacial valleys, alpine lakes, hidden river valleys and remote glacial moraines high in the mountains. Stop in at an old Shepard's Cabin way in the backcountry and marvel at towering waterfalls, where mountains cascade into a stunning alpine river, just like in the game! 

Minecraft Lake Tekapo is situated in the private Cass Valley on Glenmore Station on the western side of Lake Tekapo, offering a world of Natural wonder and beauty. 

By creating a virtual replica of iconic New Zealand scenery, this tour offers gamers and non gamers an experience of the real-life wonders of the country. 

It highlights New Zealand's unique environment, adventure experience and cultural heritage, a fun and engaging way to explore Minecraft New Zealand in real life here in Lake Tekapo. 

Access the private Cass Valley where it was featured, accessed exclusively through this Minecraft Lake Tekapo Tour.

Minecraft Lake Tekapo New Zealand Tour 

The activity provides opportunities to catch a variety of fish, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and salmon, all thriving in the nutrient-rich waters of Lake Tekapo. 
Providing access to lesser-known, remote fishing locations around the lake, ensuring a peaceful and uncrowded experience with better chances for a great catch. 
Lake Tekapo's pristine, glacial-fed waters offer a unique fishing experience with unmatched clarity, creating a serene and picturesque Southern Alps environment for anglers. 
Led by experienced guides with extensive knowledge of the local fishery, the tour offers personalized tips and techniques, ensuring both beginners and experienced anglers have a successful and enjoyable day.

2 Hours Fishing in Lake Tekapo

Discover the wonders of the universe on a guided tour of iconic Mount John in Lake Tekapo. Led by a Mandarin-speaking guide, this experience combines breathtaking panoramic views and astronomy insights. 

Begin your journey at the lakeside base, where you'll learn about the Dark Sky Project's mission to protect and share the night sky. Explore the historic Brashear Telescope and hear how this region became one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Travel to the summit of Mount John with your driver guide and enjoy panoramic views over Lake Tekapo and the Mackenzie Basin. There will be time for stunning photos and light refreshments.

Weather permitting, safely observe the Sun through a specialized solar telescope.

- Guided tour with a Mandarin-speaking expert
- Explore the historic Brashear Telescope and Dark Sky Project
- Stunning views of Lake Tekapo and the Mackenzie Basin
- Includes refreshments and solar telescope viewing when possible

Mt John Day Tour in Lake Tekapo with Mandarin‑Speaking Guide

Self-drive your own 2-seat Polaris ATV

Explore private tracks across a historic high-country sheep station

Stunning panoramic views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps

Live commentary from an experienced local guide

1.5-hour experience including safety briefing and vehicle training

Adventure, scenery, and authentic high-country charm – all rolled into one unforgettable Tekapo experience

Things to do in Lake Tekapo