The ultimate guide to Tekapo accommodation: 10 amazing places to stay
Learn about the best Tekapo accommodation with our conclusive guide to the best places to stay in town.
So, you’ve decided to take a trip to Tekapo this year? What an excellent decision!
You’ve planned your activities, settled on flights or car rentals, and have built your perfect Tekapo itinerary.
Now, there’s just one thing left to book – your Tekapo accommodation.
We understand that finding the perfect place to stay in Lake Tekapo can be difficult.
Whether you’re travelling with kids and need additional rooms, or you’re just desperate for unimpeded mountain and lakeside views, trawling through endless TripAdvisor reviews can get tiring (and confusing) after a while.
To save you the hassle and provide you with tried-and-tested accommodation options that won’t let you down, we’ve curated this ultimate guide to Tekapo accommodation. Covering everything from self-contained apartments to run-of-the-mill hotels, there is something on this list that fits all styles and budgets.
Ready to sleep easy?
Let’s dive in.
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Our Top 10 Tekapo Accommodation Options
In no particular order, we recommend checking out the following Tekapo accommodation options…
1. Macaulay House – An Expansive 5-Bedroom Holiday Home
If you’re on the hunt for Tekapo accommodation options that offer excellent views of the mountains, look no further than Macaulay House. Spanning 200 square metres, this expansive five-bedroom house has everything you’ll need for a relaxing trip to Lake Tekapo.
Though it’s furnished simply, it is a comfortable option for a large group.
Amenities include a private kitchen, balcony, large bath, fireplace, linens, a full kitchen, outdoor furniture, a flat-screen TV, and WiFi. Although this isn’t an exhaustive rundown of what you’ll find here, it covers the most important points!
We love that the hosts of this holiday home in Tekapo have thought about everything you might need to be comfortable during your stay. So, if you’re panicking about a lack of toilet paper, or have forgotten your trusty hairdryer – don’t sweat it.
We recommend taking some time during your stay to sit outside on the expansive deck. Not only will it prove relaxing, but the fact that Tekapo is in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve makes it perfect for stargazing and astrophotography too!
Plus, the home is just gorgeous when the lupins are in full bloom out front!
Address: 4 Dwyer Place, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand
Book: Your stay at Macaulay House.
2. Galaxy Boutique Hotel – 5-Star Perfection
Located right on Lake Tekapo, the Galaxy Boutique Hotel is a 5-star property that boasts panoramic views of the lake and next-level hiking trails. Just 42 kilometres from Mount Cook Village and 40 kilometres from Twizel, this hotel is also well-located for last-minute day trips to local places of interest.
There are several accommodation options available here, and guests can choose anything from a Deluxe Double room to a sprawling two-bedroom suite. The amenities are relatively similar from room to room, but the suites are significantly larger (as you might expect!) Coming in at 54 square metres, you’ll certainly have room to put your feet up.
Parents with young children will appreciate the excellent soundproofing at this property (as will other guests), and there’s also a dedicated mini bar if you need to take the edge off after a long drive.
There are kitchen facilities in the suites too, but you won’t want to miss the continental breakfast on offer each morning!
With daily housekeeping, excellent reception services, and 24-hour security, you can certainly sleep soundly at the Galaxy Boutique Hotel.
Address: 53 Darchaic Drive, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand
Book: A room at the Galaxy Boutique Hotel.
Book: Dark Sky Project: The Summit Tour.
Related: Things to do in Mount Cook.
Related: The best Mount Cook walks.
Did you know? Many of the rooms have skylights perfectly positioned above the bed to make the most of the regions incredible stargazing!
3. Tekapo Heights – The Home Comforts of a Recently Refurbished B&B
Visitors to Tekapo Hot Springs will appreciate everything that Tekapo Heights has to offer. Located just 2.25km from Tekapo’s famous thermal pools, you can quite literally walk yourself there and back.
The level of comfort here is second-to-none. Guests will appreciate the soft linens, shared kitchen area, large bathrooms, and large outdoor sun terrace. If you’re visiting Lake Tekapo during the summer months, you’ll also be thankful for the accommodation’s powerful air-conditioning units.
In addition to its on-site amenities, guests can enjoy the local cycling and tramping trails, canoeing and fishing in Lake Tekapo, and the nearby golf course (where you can play a round or two).
If you’re travelling with the kiddos, take advantage of the vast library of board games, DVDs, and puzzles on site. Trust us when we say that this will be a godsend when the weather turns sour.
Address: 2 Sams Place, Lake Tekapo 7945, New Zealand
Book: A stay at Tekapo Heights.
Related: Book discounted tickets to Tekapo Springs.
Related: The best hot pools in the South Island.
4. The Godley Hotel – Affordable Quality in Tekapo
If you’re on the hunt for a country-style property with expansive views of Lake Tekapo, then you can’t do better than The Godley Hotel. Perched right across from the Two Thumb Range, this idyllic hotel is perfectly placed for mountain biking and hiking.
You can choose from several rooms depending on your requirements; the Standard Rooms are comfortable and ideal for budget travellers, while the Lake View and Superior Rooms are a great choice for those wanting a little more comfort (thanks to recent refurbishment).
Each room features queen or king-sized beds, tea and coffee facilities, free WiFi, a smart TV, hairdryers, heating, and ensuite bathrooms.
If you’d like to grab a bite to eat, we recommend heading over to to the onsite Jack Rabbit Café. Serving up organic dishes and some of the best-tasting coffee in town, it’s unsurprising that this hotspot is always packed to the rafters.
Vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free diners are also in luck, as the menu has a wide range of dishes to suit them.
Oh – and visitors to Tekapo Springs? You’re a mere 5-minutes away at this hotel! Or if you’d prefer, you can take a dip in the hotel pool too.
Address: 2 Rapuwai Lane, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand
Book: The Godley Hotel.
Book: Mount John Observatory Stargazing tour.
5. Mantra Lake Tekapo – Comfortable Self-Contained Apartments
Mantra Lake Tekapo boasts several large apartments with patios, making it an excellent choice for summertime visitors.
With its simple décor, self-contained setup, and high-quality furnishings, this Tekapo accommodation option feels like a home-away-from-home.
Inside each apartment, you’ll find fully-equipped kitchens, underfloor heating, a private courtyard, and an outdoor fireplace.
If you step just outside of your accommodation, you’ll find a barbecue area, a swimming pool, and a hot tub too.
Should you need anything else, you’re a mere 6-minute walk from Tekapo town centre, which should see you adequately fed and watered!
Address: 1 Beauchamp Place, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand
Book: Accommodation at the Mantra Lake Tekapo [Booking.com].
Book: Mantra Lake Tekapo [Klook]. Save 10% using the promo code NZTTSTAY.
6. Peppers Bluewater Resort
Peppers Bluewater Resort is in the heart of Lake Tekapo and offers guests incredible views of the surrounding landscape. Despite being a popular Tekapo accommodation option, it still manages to feel secluded, private, and oh-so-romantic.
From this base, you’ll be well-placed to explore the Mackenzie region – head to Mount Cook, visit Tekapo Springs, or simply enjoy the resort itself.
The rooms there are split over two floors, and you’ll be able to choose from regular hotel rooms or a selection of one and two-bedroom villas.
The larger villas offer washing machines, dryers, large beds, separate kitchens, dining areas, underfloor heating, heated towel racks (bliss), rain-head showers, and wood-burning fireplaces. These additional elements will make a huge difference if you’re visiting Lake Tekapo during the winter months – trust us.
If you happen to get peckish at any point during your stay but don’t have the will to cook, head to the on-site restaurant, Rakinui, for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
While you’re there, we also recommend strolling over to the Church of Good Shepherd and heading out on a horse-riding adventure with Mackenzie Alpine Horse Trekking.
Address: State Highway 8, Lake Tekapo 7945, New Zealand
Book: Peppers Bluewater Resort [Booking.com].
Book: Peppers Bluewater Resort [Klook]. Save 10% with promo code NZTTSTAY.
7. The Quarters – Modern Apartments on the Lakeside
If you’re on the hunt for comfortable, modern apartments in Lake Tekapo, then The Quarters has got your back.
Located right by the waterfront, you’ll get incredible views and be a mere 10 minutes from the town centre.
Talk about a win-win.
When it comes to amenities, guests should expect air conditioning, comfortable beds (with electric blankets!), heating, soundproofing, an outdoor terrace (ideal for watching the world go by), tea and coffee facilities, crockery, and a golf course.
The décor is also minimalistic, relaxed and modern, which fits with the general vibe of the area.
Before booking, you should be aware that this is one of the Tekapo accommodation options that’s a no-kid and no-pet zone. So, if you’re planning on bringing the whole brood, it might be best to choose an alternative spot.
By the same token, if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, this is the spot for you.
Address: 4 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand
Book: A stay at The Quarters.
8. The Cairns – Quality Accommodation on the Golf Course
Have you been searching for a rustic, alpine lodge that’s just a stone’s throw from Tekapo’s town centre?
If so, you’ll be chomping at the bit for a reservation at The Cairns! Despite being close to the action, this accommodation retains a sense of privacy.
Each suite is constructed with Lake Tekapo in mind, incorporating large wooden panels, muted hues, and dark leathers for a rustic feel.
If you’re looking for a taste of Tekapo history, book out the Mt John Homestead; restored beautifully and still true to its 1900s design, it’s well worth the additional cost.
During the wintertime, Lexi’s Lodge is ideal. The lodge heats up extremely quickly and is large enough for groups.
If you’re a massive golf fan, be sure to check out The Cairns Golf Course too. Offering incredible panoramas of the surrounding mountains, and perched right on the lakeside, it’s likely to be your most aesthetic tee-off to date.
Address: 48 Darchiac Drive, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand
Book: The Cairns.
9. The Mackenzie Suites – Boutique Apartments in Town
The Mackenzie Suites are upscale apartments that offer guests unbeatable lake and mountain views. Family-run and maintained, this place gives off a friendly, neighborhood vibe that we can always get behind.
Seriously – if you have an issue, you can just head to the front desk and the staff will resolve it in a flash. They are renowned for excellent customer service.
Choose from one-bedroom luxury suites or two-bedroom boutique apartments. Both are well-presented and modern whilst retaining a rustic charm that blends wonderfully with the mountain setting.
Expect to find heated floors, large bedrooms, large bathtubs, laundry facilities, and a dedicated kitchen area in each apartment. You’ll also get complimentary robes and slippers provided for cozy nights in!
Beautifully designed, with comfortable, homely furnishings and offering easy access to local attractions, The Mackenzie Suites has something for everybody.
We believe the future of high quality tourist accommodation lies in boutique operations like ours where the guests are hosted, feel looked after and leave with a memorable experience that stays with them for many years to come.
The Mackenzie Suites
Address: 67 Darchiac Drive, Lake Tekapo 7945, New Zealand
Book: The Mackenzie Suites.
10. Lake Tekapo Cottages
The final Tekapo accommodation option on our list is Lake Tekapo Cottages.
Despite its prime positioning on Sealy Street, Lake Tekapo Cottages is one of the more affordable places to stay in the area. Granted, it’s not dirt-cheap, but considering the amenities and location, we’d say it it incredibly reasonable.
The accommodation is entirely self-contained, and rooms are nestled amidst forestry and plant life to keep things feeling tranquil.
There are 9 cottages available in total, and each one sleeps between up to eight people. This means they’re suitable for everyone from couples to large families!
The Potting Shed is the smallest option available, but it’s cozy and well-heated for those cold winter nights. It sleeps two so is perfect for couples, friends and even solo travellers.
If you’re looking for something larger, check out Mina Cottage. Sleeping six and including two good-sized bedrooms, a kitchen unit, and an ensuite, it provides everything you need for a comfortable stay.
We find that this location tends to book out quickly, so encourage you to book online nice and early, before the cabins get snapped up!
Address: 12 Sealy Street, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand
Book: Affordable accommodation at Lake Tekapo Cottages [Booking.com].
Book: Lake Tekapo Cottages [Klook]. Save 10% with the promo code NZTTSTAY.
Additional Highly Recommended Tekapo Accommodation:
- Aldourie Lodge
- TekapoB2 Lakeview Apartment
- Hillcrest Lodge B
- Three Rivers Lodge
- Tailor Made Tekapo Accommodation – Guesthouse & Hostel
We hope that this ultimate guide to Tekapo accommodation has helped plan your trip.
Finding the right place to stay in any town or city can be difficult, so having a dedicated reference point can be a total lifesaver!
Whether you’re looking for a self-contained apartment or prefer hotel rooms, there should be something on this list that takes your fancy!
Do you have any excellent accommodation suggestions for Tekapo?
If so, let us know in the comments below!
