10 Sightseeing Tours in Lake Tekapo That You Shouldn't Miss

February 17, 2022 Chanda Heide

Discover the best top things to do in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand including 8-Day Tour: South Island from Christchurch, Franz Josef, Wanaka and Queenstown, Christchurch to Queenstown One-Way Tour (or in reverse), Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki Day Tour, 1 day private tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt.Cook , Christchurch - Mt Cook - Queenstown ( or in reverse ), 23-Day Epic New Zealand Tour, 7 Day South Island Lick Tour, Mount Cook Private Day Tour via Lake Tekapo including Lunch, 4-Day Great Southern Island Circle Tour from Christchurch, 3-Day South Island Circle Tour from Christchurch.
Restaurants in Lake Tekapo

1. 8-Day Tour: South Island from Christchurch, Franz Josef, Wanaka and Queenstown

The Road Trip New Zealand
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5.0 based on 14 reviews

See the best of New Zealand’s stunning South Island on this unforgettable 8-day tour! Traveling by private luxury vehicle you’ll visit all the highlights of this amazing destination on an counter-clockwise route from Christchurch. Explore Arthur’s Pass, see West Coast rainforests from Franz Josef Glacier, and visit Mount Cook and Queenstown. Customize your tour to your preference with a range of optional activities (own expense) including helicopter rides, mountain walks, bungee jumps and more! The service that we provide is a private luxury tour service, not a large group tour. Other than our friendly tour staff you will not be sharing your tour with anyone outside of your own party so you can rest assured that this is your tour and we’ll do exactly what you want to make it your perfect trip. With a round-trip transfer from Christchurch Airport or your local hotel plus seven nights of accommodation included, this adventure-laden tour enables you to see the South Island with ease.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Private tour, Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), Live commentary on board, Professional tour guide (who is also the driver), Transport by private vehicle and all fuel charges, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Round-trip airport transfer (Christchurch), 7 nights accommodation in your selected category of hotel

Exclusions: Gratuities, Optional activities, Personal expenses, Food and drinks, not specified in the itinerary (lunch and dinner)

Reviewed By Pipnruss

Fiordland Lodge and Doubtful Sound. Fantastic ferry ride across Lake Manapouri and bus ride over the Wilmot Pass to board the Fiordland Navigator for 2 nights. 3 sunny, calm days to relax on board, spoiled by the chef's lovely food and Courtney's very knowledgeable commentary about the Sounds, history, wildlife, birdlife and little things like having complete silence in the Sound to enjoy the peace and look at the amazing mountains and their reflections in the calm water. An unexpected run out into the Tasman Sea was a bonus. The Fiordland Lodge is an American style Lodge built with lots of logs and wood and stone, very spacious. Friendly helpful staff. Located 6km from Te Anau. Our only concern was the lack of food choice for dinner, on a 3 course meal was offered, no light meals. The breakfast (included) was lovely, as was all the food, some interesting variations in tastes.

2. Christchurch to Queenstown One-Way Tour (or in reverse)

Canterbury Trails - Day Tours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

This tour provides an alternative to large coach transfers between Christchurch and Queenstown ( or in reverse ) and is a more intimate journey than flying. The trip takes you across the Canterbury farming plains and eventually through the foothills to the Southern Alps. Further south the route takes you through the iconic MacKenzie Country, named after an infamous sheep rustler and past the glacially formed lakes Tekapo and Pukaki. Tekapo boasts a famous lakeside chapel while beyond the headwaters of Pukaki is New Zealand's highest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook. Photographic opportunities abound though weather permitting. From here the trip passes through the world renowned gliding area of Omarama and into the dramatic landscape of the Lindis Pass. The drive continues past Lake Dunstan and into the Kawarau Gorge, site of the world's first bungy and home to award winning wineries.

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, Bottled water, Lunch, Coffee and/or Tea

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase, Gratuities

Reviewed By Cheezel

This was a fabulous way to travel from Greymouth to Christchurch after a road trip around the top area of New Zealand. The staff were great from check - in to leaving the train at Christchurch. Good food and refreshments were offered. The scenery is varied and the commentary informative during the journey. I would love to do this again in winter as it would be spectacular. A great way to see some of the South Island, comfortable and good information. Will do this again and highly recommend.

3. Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki Day Tour

NZSI Tours & Travel
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Enjoy your private day tour to picturesque town of Lake Tekapo that lies in the heart of Mackenzie country. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations that provide exquisite views. Visit the iconic Church of Good Shepherd & Sheepdog Statue in Lake Tekapo. Admire Lake Pukaki & the stunning views of Mount Cook from a distance. Soak up & unwind in Tekapo Springs offering Hot Pools, Spa, waterslide & aqua play area for kids. Tour Highlights: • Sample award-winning cheese at a local cheese factory in Geraldine • Visit the iconic Church of Good Shepherd and Bronze Sheepdog Statue in Lake Tekapo • Admire Lake Pukaki, the largest lake in Mackenzie region, and stunning alpine scenery • Visit to a Salmon Farm. • Drive to the summit at Mt. John Observatory. • Soak in the renowned Tekapo Springs with alpine scenery.

Inclusions: Private tour (i.e. only for one party), Professional guide., Transport in luxurious van (2017 or late model Mercedes Benz), Hotel Pick up and Drop Off., Complimentary Hotspot WIFI., Complimentary light refreshments., Hotel pickup and drop-off., Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Meals.

Reviewed By AbigailCC

The Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, and Mt. Cook views were just simply spectacular. So lucky to have a nice, warm weather today. Our tour guide/driver, Anujk, was excellent! He was very kind, friendly, and knowledgeable. The service he provided was superb from pick up to drop off. We will definitely come back to South Island and do more tours with NZSI. If you are making an itinerary, I highly recommend you include this full day tour on your to do list. It was 100% the highlight of our South Island trip! :-)

4. 1 day private tour from Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt.Cook

Christchurch Central City, Christchurch, New Zealand Mackenzie Gateway Tours
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

" We do it your way " There will be no rushing around on these trips , just time for you to see things that you have come to see and at your speed .

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Fuel surcharge, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Parking Fees, 20 photos high resolution by email, Snacks, Bottled water

Exclusions: All meals, Admission fees and activities

Reviewed By senthrak

Helped my friends and I when we were struggling to carry our items to our campsite. We're very grateful! Also a pleasant person to talk to.

5. Christchurch - Mt Cook - Queenstown ( or in reverse )

Canterbury Trails - Day Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

This 2 day journey will take you across the wide expanse of the Canterbury plains, through the high country and past Lake Tekapo arriving at Mt Cook National Park. Stay overnight in Aoraki Mt Cook and explore the many options to experience this national beauty. Travel through to Queenstown the following day with stops along the way to take in unique landscapes.

Inclusions: Lunch, Lunch, Driver/guide, Guided walks to explore the Alpine landscape (as required), Hotel pickup and drop-off, Live commentary on board, Picnic morning or afternoon tea, Transport by deluxe minivan, Bottled water

Exclusions: Breakfasts, Evening meals, Optional activities, Accommodation

Reviewed By Cheezel

This was a fabulous way to travel from Greymouth to Christchurch after a road trip around the top area of New Zealand. The staff were great from check - in to leaving the train at Christchurch. Good food and refreshments were offered. The scenery is varied and the commentary informative during the journey. I would love to do this again in winter as it would be spectacular. A great way to see some of the South Island, comfortable and good information. Will do this again and highly recommend.

6. 23-Day Epic New Zealand Tour

No. 9 Hotel, 9 Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland 1023, New Zealand Haka Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Over 24 unforgettable days you will experience it all: secluded beaches, jaw-dropping scenery, Māori culture, mountainous ranges, lush rainforests and more adventure activities than you could ever wish for. As with all our tours, we do include a few 'must-do' events, ranging from a Māori cultural night to learning to paddle a waka (Māori war canoe), and even a greenstone carving experience. You will see a massive range of optional activities available to add, from bungy jumping and dolphin swimming to jet boating and scenic flights. None of these are compulsory; just add the ones you want. Activities can also be purchased on the road – just let your tour guide know. We can't always guarantee availability when booking on the road, so we suggest pre-booking any activities you especially want to do.

Inclusions: Continental Breakfast Every Day - heaps of options for everyone (you too, vegans!), Orientation Tours - we give you the low-down on every location, Comfortable Transport - with plenty of room to spread out, High-End Hostel Accommodation - dorm share, upgrades available, Experienced Local Guide , Small Groups - Max 16 people. You are more than just a number, Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the birthplace of New Zealand, 2 dinners Fish'n'Chips in Paihia and a traditional cooked hangi in Murupara to full your puku! (belly), Experience a Māori cultural performance in Rotorua during the Cultural Experience Night, Visit Te Puia - cultural centre about traditional Māori culture and Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, Learn to paddle a waka (Māori war canoe) along the Abel Tasman coastline, Iconic ferry ride between the North and South Islands across the Cook Strait, Optional transport back from Wellington to Auckland on Day 24

Exclusions: Additional activities - such as bungy jumping, Lunch and dinner are own costs - unless specified

Reviewed By Elizabeth K

I booked a trip scheduled 2nd April, the company notified me that due Covid 19 pandemic the tour would be cancelled. I was offered options of a refund or get credits. I chose refund as I was not gonna get any other time which they concurred. After 2 weeks I was contacted by one rude Eva Lawrence who stayed that the business was not doing well due to the pandemic hence they would not refund back the money?! So is that how you treat your customers? Was it my fault that you cancelled the trip due to the pandemic??! I need a refund ASAP. [email protected] +61450753569

7. 7 Day South Island Lick Tour

Haka Lodge Christchurch, 518 Linwood Avenue, Woolston, Christchurch 8062, New Zealand Haka Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Starting and ending in the “Garden City” of Christchurch, we show you the ultimate highlights of New Zealand’s stunning South Island over 7 action-packed days. From turquoise lakes to towering mountains and glaciers, the South Island’s scenery will blow your mind, and the nation’s adventure capital, Queenstown, has all the adrenalin activities on offer that you could possibly wish for. Activities can be pre-booked or purchased on the road - just let your tour guide know. We can't always guarantee availability when booking on the road, so we suggest pre- booking any activities you especially want to do. As the tour starts early in the morning, you can opt to book accommodation in Christchurch with us the night before the tour – only having to walk downstairs on day 1 makes for a stress-free morning. Accommodation is included on the last night of your tour, but we can also book a few extra nights for you if you would like to extend your stay.

Inclusions: 7 nights in high-end hostel accommodation – dorm share, upgrades available, Small groups, maximum 16, Orientation tour of every location, Continental breakfast every day, Dinner on first night, TranzAlpine train from Greymouth to Christchurch, Carve your own pounamu/jade pendant in Franz Josef, Comfortable bus transport, Journey through multiple National Parks

Exclusions: Lunch and Dinner (unless specified) at own cost, Add on activities ie - Bungy jumping

Reviewed By Elizabeth K

I booked a trip scheduled 2nd April, the company notified me that due Covid 19 pandemic the tour would be cancelled. I was offered options of a refund or get credits. I chose refund as I was not gonna get any other time which they concurred. After 2 weeks I was contacted by one rude Eva Lawrence who stayed that the business was not doing well due to the pandemic hence they would not refund back the money?! So is that how you treat your customers? Was it my fault that you cancelled the trip due to the pandemic??! I need a refund ASAP. [email protected] +61450753569

8. Mount Cook Private Day Tour via Lake Tekapo including Lunch

NZSI Tours & Travel
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4.9 based on 14 reviews

Enjoy a private day tour to Aoraki/Mount Cook - the tallest mountain in New Zealand. Visit the picturesque town of Lake Tekapo, admire stunning alpine views from Lake Pukaki, and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at the Hermitage Hotel.   Tours Highlights: • Enjoy a day trip from Christchurch to discover incredible glaciers, lakes and rivers • Sample award-winning cheese at a local cheese factory in Geraldine • Visit the iconic Church of Good Shepherd and Bronze Sheepdog Statue in Lake Tekapo • Admire Lake Pukaki, the largest lake in Mackenzie region, and stunning alpine scenery • Savor a delicious buffet lunch with spectacular views at the Hermitage Hotel • Explore one of the many alpine walks in Mount Cook National Park

Inclusions: Private tour (i.e. only for one party), Professional guide., Transport by air-conditioned late model Mercedes Benz vans., Buffet lunch (Temporarily closed due to Covid19, so a À la carte lunch will be served until then), Hotel Pick up and Drop Off., Complimentary Hotspot WIFI provided., Complimentary light refreshments provided.

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Reviewed By AbigailCC

The Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, and Mt. Cook views were just simply spectacular. So lucky to have a nice, warm weather today. Our tour guide/driver, Anujk, was excellent! He was very kind, friendly, and knowledgeable. The service he provided was superb from pick up to drop off. We will definitely come back to South Island and do more tours with NZSI. If you are making an itinerary, I highly recommend you include this full day tour on your to do list. It was 100% the highlight of our South Island trip! :-)

9. 4-Day Great Southern Island Circle Tour from Christchurch

Leisure Tours
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4.1 based on 15 reviews

Picturesque mountains, deep fiords and icy glaciers - this is New Zealand's South Island. See for yourself on a four-day independent tour highlighting this scenic region. Travel by coach from Christchurch to Queenstown and up the West Coast to Greymouth before a return to Christchurch. View Franz Josef glacier and experience Milford Sound.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Live commentary on board, Milford Sound Cruise, 3-nights accommodation

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By ClosesOnTour

Graham from Leisure Tours picked four of us up from our hotel for a half day wine tour, visiting four wineries with lunch included. He was friendly, very knowledgeable and pointed out places of interest as he drove us to the Waipara Valley. We were very comfortable in his people mover with plenty of room for us all. Lunch at Waipara Springs Winery was delicious and the staff were friendly and helpful. The three other wineries had knowledgeable and friendly staff telling us all about their wines. We tasted several varieties and they were delicious. Graham had a good rapport with each winery and took us into each of the tasting rooms. We would certainly recommend this tour. We look forward to visiting Christchurch again and would contact Leisure Tours regarding the other tours they offer.

10. 3-Day South Island Circle Tour from Christchurch

Leisure Tours
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3.6 based on 8 reviews

Spend three days experiencing the highlights of New Zealand's scenic South Island on this tour from Christchurch. Travel by coach to Mt Cook National Park, Queenstown, Greymouth and the impressive Franz Josef Glacier, listening to informative onboard commentary and stopping to explore sights independently. You’ll be treated to a panorama of New Zealand’s spectacular, ever-changing scenery, from open plains and rugged mountain ranges to glacial lakes, dense forests, Gold Rush towns and beyond. This 3-day tour is ideal for more independent sightseeing, and those looking to experience the beauty of New Zealand in a relaxed, comfortable way.

Inclusions: Driver/guide, 2 nights of accommodation in 3-star hotels, Air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Live commentary on board

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities

Reviewed By ClosesOnTour

Graham from Leisure Tours picked four of us up from our hotel for a half day wine tour, visiting four wineries with lunch included. He was friendly, very knowledgeable and pointed out places of interest as he drove us to the Waipara Valley. We were very comfortable in his people mover with plenty of room for us all. Lunch at Waipara Springs Winery was delicious and the staff were friendly and helpful. The three other wineries had knowledgeable and friendly staff telling us all about their wines. We tasted several varieties and they were delicious. Graham had a good rapport with each winery and took us into each of the tasting rooms. We would certainly recommend this tour. We look forward to visiting Christchurch again and would contact Leisure Tours regarding the other tours they offer.

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