Tekapo Springs

Perched on the shores of Lake Tekapo with sweeping views of the Southern Alps, Tekapo Springs offers a blissful blend of geothermal pools, saunas, and day spa facilities. It's a perfect spot to unwind after exploring the Mackenzie Country, with three hot pools (each at different temperatures), a hydroslide for a splash of fun, and a stunning ice skating rink in winter. The complex is designed to harmonise with the landscape, using natural rock and native plantings, and the steaming pools are especially magical at sunset when the sky turns pink over the lake.

Highlights & What to See

• Hot Pools: Soak in the 36–40°C thermal pools while gazing at Aoraki Mount Cook and the lake – bring your camera for the postcard-perfect view.
• Day Spa: Treat yourself to a massage or facial using local organic products; book ahead in peak season.
• Ice Skating Rink: Open June to August, this outdoor rink offers a quintessential alpine experience with skate hire available.
• Hydroslide & Aqua Play: Fun for families – the 80-metre slide and splash pad keep kids entertained.
• Stargazing: As part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the springs host evening stargazing sessions with telescopes.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors enjoy 2–3 hours here, combining a soak with a spa treatment or a skate. If you want to fully relax, plan a half-day: arrive mid-afternoon, enjoy the pools, then stay for sunset and stargazing. The complex is open daily until late, so you can easily fit it into a day of exploring the Tekapo area.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Lake Tekapo Township: Just a 5-minute drive away, with the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, lakeside walks, and cafés like the famous Run 77.
• Mount John Observatory: A 15-minute drive up to the summit for panoramic views and daytime astronomy tours; also a great spot for short hikes.
• Aoraki Mount Cook Village: An hour’s drive south, offering glacier walks, the Tasman Glacier viewpoint, and the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.
• Twizel: A 45-minute drive south, gateway to the Ohau ski fields and the excellent salmon farms along the canals.
• Mackenzie Pass & Burkes Pass: Scenic drives with historic churches and tussock-covered hills – perfect for a short detour.

Please check official sources for current details.