Christchurch to Queenstown via Lake Tekapo: Plan Your Epic South Island Road Trip

Skip ahead:

• Day 1: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
• Day 2: Immersing Yourself in the Beauty of Lake Tekapo
• Day 3: Lake Tekapo to Queenstown
• Planning Your Perfect Christchurch to Queenstown Adventure

Day 1: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo – Journey Through Canterbury’s Charm

Your South Island odyssey begins in the vibrant city of Christchurch, the gateway to the Canterbury region. The journey to Lake Tekapo typically takes around three hours, covering a distance of approximately 226 to 275 kilometers depending on the route chosen. While the destination itself is captivating, the drive offers its own unique charm, allowing you to witness the transition from the relatively flat Canterbury Plains to the majestic alpine scenery that awaits.

For those prioritizing speed and a more direct path, the route via State Highway 1 and State Highway 79 is your best bet, typically clocking in at around three hours. However, even on this quicker route, opportunities for delightful stops abound. 

Consider a refreshing break at the Selwyn Aquatic Centre in Rolleston, especially if you’re traveling with family. Wine enthusiasts might appreciate a visit to Straight 8 Estate, known for its award-winning wines and the friendly vineyard dog. 

As you continue south, the town of Ashburton offers a glimpse into local history with its various museums and the Ashburton Art Gallery. Further along the way lies Geraldine, a charming town where you can sample local delicacies at Barker’s Store and the Geraldine Cheese Company. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the famous pies at the Fairlie Bakehouse in Fairlie, often referred to as the ‘Gateway to Mackenzie County’. Finally, as you approach Lake Tekapo, the quirky old-time village of Burkes Pass, home to the Three Creeks Gallery, is worth a brief stop.

If you have a little more time to spare and crave breathtaking scenery from the outset, the scenic route via State Highway 77, State Highway 72, and then joining State Highway 79 offers a more immersive experience, taking approximately three and a half hours. This path winds through the heartland of rural Canterbury, revealing stunning landscapes. 

A highly recommended stop is the Rakaia Gorge Walkway, where you can stretch your legs and marvel at the turquoise waters carving through the dramatic gorge. Nature lovers will be enchanted by Washpen Falls, accessible via an easy loop trail that also features caves and native wildlife. Trotts Garden provides a tranquil escape with its beautiful plant collections. 

The adventurous might consider a detour to Mt Hutt Ski Resort for some high-altitude views. Like the direct route, the scenic option also passes through Geraldine, allowing you to enjoy its attractions. The Ashburton Lakes, nestled within the Hakatere Conservation Park, offer a serene setting for a relaxing break. Animal enthusiasts will delight in a visit to Gem Alpaca Stud in Fairlie. The Peel Forest, Geraldine’s largest reserve, offers various walking trails through native bushland.

Upon arriving in Lake Tekapo, the first thing that will likely capture your attention is the mesmerizing turquoise hue of the lake, a result of finely ground rock particles suspended in the glacial waters. Take a leisurely stroll along the lakefront to soak in the panoramic views of the Southern Alps, a truly unforgettable sight. As dusk begins to settle, make your way to the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a charming stone church perched on the shores of the lake. Its picturesque setting against the backdrop of the lake and mountains makes it one of the most photographed landmarks in New Zealand.

Day 2: Immersing Yourself in the Beauty of Lake Tekapo

Day two is dedicated to fully experiencing the natural wonders of Lake Tekapo and its surroundings. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a stargazing enthusiast, or simply seeking relaxation, this region offers something truly special.

Tekapo Adventures offers scenic 4WD + Hiking Tours, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience the Mackenzie Country’s most breathtaking landscapes. This is a fantastic way to delve deeper into the region’s beauty.

For those who love to explore on foot, Lake Tekapo boasts a network of trails catering to various fitness levels. The Mount John Summit Track is arguably the most popular short walk, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Lake Tekapo, the Mackenzie Basin, and the distant Southern Alps. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours from Tekapo Springs or 3 hours from the township, with a moderate difficulty level due to some steep sections. Do note that dogs are not allowed on this track to protect the fragile alpine environment. 

At the summit, you’ll find the Astro Cafe, a perfect spot to enjoy refreshments while soaking in the incredible vistas. Another fantastic option is the Cowans Hill Walkway, a relatively easy 1 to 1.5-hour loop that also rewards you with panoramic views of the lake and the Mackenzie Basin. This track starts near the Tekapo Road Bridge, making it easily accessible from the township. 

Similar to Mount John, dogs are not permitted on Cowans Hill Track. For a longer and more challenging hike, consider the Richmond Trail, a 13-kilometer one-way track that follows an old glacial terrace, offering stunning views. This trail requires either two vehicles or a pre-arranged pick-up due to its different starting and finishing points, and dogs are allowed under control. 

For a leisurely stroll, the Lake Tekapo Walkway offers easy access along the lakefront, while the Peninsula Walkway provides a quieter alternative with beautiful lake views.

As night falls, Lake Tekapo transforms into a celestial wonderland. Situated within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the largest gold-rated dark sky reserve in the world, this region boasts some of the clearest and darkest night skies on the planet. Several operators offer guided stargazing tours to enhance your experience. 

The Dark Sky Project (formerly Earth & Sky) provides various options, including the premier Summit Experience at the Mount John Observatory, offering access to professional research telescopes. Their Crater Experience at Cowan’s Observatory is a great introductory tour, while the Dark Sky Experience offers an indoor multimedia journey through the cosmos. 

Tekapo Stargazing offers a unique “Soak in the Stars” experience, combining the wonders of the night sky with relaxation in the hot pools at Tekapo Springs. Silver River Stargazing provides intimate, small-group tours on a private farm within the Dark Sky Reserve. 

Other options include Chameleon Stargazing and Astro Tekapo. It’s highly recommended to check the weather forecast and book your stargazing tour in advance, especially during peak season. 

For a free option, even the lakefront offers incredible opportunities for naked-eye stargazing away from the town’s lights.

For a more relaxed pace, indulge in the therapeutic waters of Tekapo Springs. This complex offers three hot pools with varying temperatures, all boasting stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. They also feature a cooler Aqua Play Area for families, a Glacial Day Spa for pampering treatments, steam and sauna rooms, and seasonal activities like an ice skating rink and snow tube in winter, and mini-golf in summer. 

For a different relaxation experience, consider a visit to Omarama Hot Tubs, offering private tubs with mountain views, or Tekapo Wellness for massage and yoga sessions.

Day 3: Lake Tekapo to Queenstown – Traversing the Majestic Lindis Pass

Your final day takes you from the serene beauty of Lake Tekapo to the adventure capital of Queenstown. The drive via the Lindis Pass is a scenic journey of approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, covering a distance of around 256 to 288 kilometers.

The Lindis Pass itself is a highlight of this leg, known for its unique and majestic tussock-covered landscape. Reaching an elevation of 971 meters, it’s one of the highest roads in New Zealand, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Be sure to stop at the designated viewpoints along the pass to capture the stunning vistas – a photographer’s dream, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Along the way, several enticing stops and detours await. Just a short drive from Lake Tekapo, you’ll encounter Lake Pukaki, another glacial lake renowned for its incredibly vibrant turquoise colour and offering magnificent views of Aoraki/Mount Cook on a clear day. The Mt Cook Alpine Salmon Shop near the lake is a great place to sample some fresh, locally raised salmon. 

Continuing south, you’ll reach Omarama, where you can explore the fascinating Clay Cliffs, unique geological formations created by ancient glaciers. If time permits, a relaxing soak at the Omarama Hot Tubs could be a welcome break. The popular town of Wanaka is another worthwhile stop, known for its stunning lake, the iconic “Wanaka Tree,” and a plethora of adventure activities. 

From skydiving and canyoning to hiking and various water sports, Wanaka offers thrills for every adrenaline seeker. You can also visit attractions like Puzzling World or the Wanaka Lavender Farm. 

As you continue towards Queenstown, consider a stop at the historic Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand’s oldest and most photographed hotels, exuding rustic charm. For history buffs, a detour to the charming gold mining village of Arrowtown, just outside Queenstown, is highly recommended.

As you finally approach Queenstown, the anticipation of adventure builds. Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown offers a thrilling array of activities, from bungy jumping and jet boating to skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.

Planning Your Perfect Christchurch to Queenstown Adventure

To make the most of your road trip, consider these essential planning tips:

Best Time to Travel: The summer months (December to March) offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, ideal for outdoor activities. However, this is also the peak tourist season, meaning higher prices and more crowds. The shoulder seasons (spring: September to November; autumn: March to May) provide a pleasant alternative with milder weather, fewer tourists, and stunning seasonal colours. Spring is also the time to witness the breathtaking lupin blooms around Lake Tekapo (typically November to January). Winter (June to August) transforms Queenstown into a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding.

Accommodation Options: Lake Tekapo offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including hotels, motels, holiday parks, and campervan sites. Consider options like Haka House Lake Tekapo. It’s crucial to book your accommodation well in advance, especially if traveling during peak season. You’ll also find various lodging options in towns along the route like Geraldine, Fairlie, Omarama, Wanaka, and Queenstown.

Essential Packing Items: Given the variable weather conditions in the South Island, packing in layers is highly recommended. Key items to include are a lightweight waterproof jacket, comfortable hiking boots, merino wool layers, a warm jacket, casual clothing, swimwear (for hot pools!), sunscreen, insect repellent (especially for the West Coast), a reusable water bottle, and a basic first-aid kit. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery, and ensure you have a New Zealand power adapter (Type I) for your electronic devices.

Related Questions

This Christchurch to Queenstown road trip, with a dedicated stop to explore the wonders of Lake Tekapo, promises an unforgettable journey through some of the most spectacular landscapes New Zealand has to offer. From the charming towns and rolling plains of Canterbury to the iconic turquoise waters and starry nights of Lake Tekapo, and finally, to the adventure-filled landscapes surrounding Queenstown, this itinerary is packed with incredible experiences. 

Start planning your adventure today, and for more information on activities and tours in the Lake Tekapo region, be sure to check out our trips right here on the Tekapo Adventures website.

You Might Also Like…