Lake Tekapo is on the bucket list of almost all the travelers who wish to visit New Zealand. Located about 3 hours from Christchurch by car, the township is known for its unmatched scenic beauty. The town enjoys proximity to the spectacular turquoise colored lake, which is its namesake and the Southern Alps. You will come across the stunning Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo. Its altar window frames a picturesque view of the mighty Southern Alps peeping beyond the lake. In fact, it is one of the most popular photo spots for the tourists.
Lake Tekapo lies in the southern hemisphere that is similar to the Northern Lights. It is one of the most ideal locations in New Zealand to marvel at the amazing symphony of colors coming to life. This riot of light can be best viewed between the months of April and September. The town is known for its absence of light pollution and clear nights, thus making it an excellent viewing destination. If you are planning to visit Lake Tekapo soon, we will make your life simpler. Check out our guide on the top ways to explore and these recommended Airbnbs in Lake Tekapo and enjoy a wonderful vacation.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on July 23, 2024.
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1. Cozy self contained apartment for two near Church of the Good Shepherd (from USD 109)
Get full access to the Big Sky Apartment hosted by Vicki who lives right near her lake house which is both located in Lake Tekapo. Guests of two can book this self-contained flat with its own private entrance and is self-check-in best for those who value their privacy when traveling. The apartment is situated in the quiet part of Tekapo but isn’t far from downtown hotspots, convenient for those who wish to explore the area. The cozy minimalist-inspired flat has a king-bedroom for couples, as well as a kitchen with ample counter space for those who wish to cook in more than eat out. There are a small patio and balcony for mornings where you wish to have your cup of coffee outdoors, as well as other amenities like air conditioning, cable TV, heating, hot water, and Wifi access for those visiting the area but still, have to do some work. The Big Sky is surrounded by lush greenery with a stunning view of Mt. John and the mountain vistas, as well as a private gate, conveniently just a five to ten-minute walk to downtown. Vicki’s place also allows guests to see a view of The Cairns Farmyard where llamas, sheep, and other farm animals roam the place; truly a sight to see first thing in the morning.
2. Charming cabin in secluded area with lake and mountain views (from USD 60)
Travelers headed to Lake Tekapo already know that the nature-infused area has a ton of nature walks, hikes, and canyoneering activities in store for adventure junkies to come to participate in. Whether you’re participating in a tour or doing it manually by yourself, the most strategic thing to do is to find a place just nearby. Hotels may not be the best option as mountain hikes and tours would take longer if you’re coming from the city center. Instead, book a night ow two at Tekpo Cabin Garden where guests of two can easily get crash on a comfy queen bed accompanied by easily accessible amenities like Wifi, hot water, heating, cooking basics in the kitchenette for early morning brekky prep and free street parking for those who took a road trip up to Tekapo. Enjoy your nature adventure at Lake Tekapo and journey to the mountain with fantastic shots of the most scenic mountains in the area.
3. Starlight Sirius and Vega suite (from USD 194)
Situated only a short walk away from the picturesque viewing area of the Cowans Hill, this beautiful house offers you hotel-like conveniences and home-like comfort. Suitable for 6 people at a time, this accommodation in Lake Tekapo boasts 2 elegantly furnished bedrooms with 3 comfy beds and 2 clean attached bathrooms. It is an excellent spot to view the stars. There are 2 garden balconies that further enhance the charm of the place. The Sirius room and the Vega room can be also booked separately. Equipped with an amazing fireplace and a functional kitchen, some other facilities are iron, heating, dryer, and air conditioning.
4. Milky Way cabin (from USD 127)
Enjoying a close proximity to the lake, this modern sparkling clean and self-contained cabin was constructed in 2017. It has been designed with minute detailing for maximum home-like comfort. Location is an important USP for this homestay as it is situated only a stone’s throw away from the center of the village. There are several cafes and restaurants, a tavern, post office, and a supermarket nearby. The Lake Tekapo holiday home can comfortably accommodate 2 persons and has a well-furnished bedroom with a bed and a full bathroom. Guests can enjoy facilities like private entrance, a functional kitchen, television, heating, and air conditioning during their stay.
5. Blue Star Inn Tekapo (from USD 101)
Welcome to this relatively new but well-equipped private guesthouse in Lake Tekapo. Guests are assured of complete privacy as the stay is entirely detached from the space of the owner. The room offers a stunning view of the night sky and the great mountain. It is suitable for a maximum of 2 adult guests plus a kid (aged two or under). There is a well-kept and neat bedroom with a comfy king-size bed and a modern bathroom. Facilities such as hairdryer, private entrance, Wi-Fi access, and television are provided to the patrons. The Church of Good Shepherd and the lake are a short drive from here.
6. Studio at Cairnsmore (from USD 115)
Situated conveniently near The Cairns Golf Course in Lake Tekapo, this pretty apartment offers spectacular views of the mountain and the lake. It is also within a walking distance from the village. Contemporarily decorated and furnished, the homestay features a nicely done bedroom with a bed for two, a private bathroom with modern fittings, an equipped kitchenette and a courtyard with a barbecue area. It is really convenient to visit the beautiful lake and the surrounding attractions from here. A string of conveniences in the form of a laptop-friendly workspace, iron, heating, dryer, and air conditioning are rendered to the guests. So, do not waste time and just head here to experience a relaxing holiday.
7. Private and comfortable unit
Located only 10 minutes away from the town of Lake Tekapo by foot, this comfortable property is perfect for a night or two. A private entrance leads to the deck where guests can sit and stargaze or laze around under the sun. A kitchen with basic facilities like BBQ and microwave can be accessed by the patrons. Ideal for 2 persons, there is a comfortably furnished bedroom with a squishy bed, an attached bathroom, and a living room with unlimited Wi-Fi access and Sky TV. Other amenities include free on-site parking, television, heating, and air conditioning. Stay in this homely property and enjoy your holiday.
Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand
770 meters (0.5 ft) from The Church of the Good ShepherdAccommodates: 2
8. Dunrobin Cotage — central hideway in Lake Tekapo (from USD 120)
Stay in this spacious and new house in Lake Tekapo, which is known for its hotel-like conveniences as well as home-like comfort. It is an ideal abode for families or an excellent getaway for special occasions. The stay offers fabulous views and is located centrally. This Lake Tekapo accommodation on Airbnb is within a walking distance from attractions like seasonal skiing, hot pools, and star gazing. Ideal for 6 persons, there are 4 well-kept bedrooms with 6 comfy bed and 2.5 modern bathrooms. The host provides an array of amenities like a dryer, air conditioning, iron, heating, and indoor fireplace so that you can have a relaxed stay.
9. Jo's place (from USD 57)
This lovely and modern accommodation in Lake Tekapo is within a few minutes’ walk from the lake, restaurants, and shops. The nice little homestay is ideal for spending some days in the town for your upcoming holiday Suitable for 4 people, it features a neatly furnished bedroom with 2 beds and an attached bathroom. Guests can enjoy complete privacy during their stay as there is a separate entrance for them. You can travel here in your own vehicles since the host provides free parking space. Some other amenities provided here are Wi-Fi access, laptop-friendly workspace, and heating. The bedroom offers picturesque views of the mountain.
10. Antair lakeview king bedroom #1
This stunning new house in Lake Tekapo was built in December 2016 and offers an exotic view of the Mt. John, the lake, and the mountain ranges surrounding the lake. It can comfortably sleep 2 persons and has a bedroom furnished with a double bed and television. Guests also have access to the attached bathroom with shower and free toiletries. Although the room is not very big, it is suitable for a brief stopover so that guests can indulge in stargazing. The lodge has 5 bedrooms in total and all guests can share the living room while staying here. On offer are several useful conveniences such as free parking, iron, heating, and cable TV.
Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand
1.03 km (0.7 mi) from The Church of the Good ShepherdSuperhostAccommodates: 2
11. Antair twin bedroom #5
You will love this beautiful new house in Lake Tekapo that enjoys some stunning views of the famous Cairns Golf Course. Suitable for 2 people, there are a furnished bedroom and en-suite bathroom with toiletries and a shower. Guests can access the deck through a separate door altogether. The room is ideal for stargazing and a short stopover. It is a part of the same property that is listed above. A string of necessary comforts like hairdryer, free on-site parking, television, iron, and heating, makes it an idyllic homely abode for the patrons.
Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand
1.11 km (0.7 mi) from The Church of the Good ShepherdSuperhostAccommodates: 2
12. Ribbonwood Cottage in the heart of Tekapo
Just a couple of minutes’ walk from the village center, Ribbonwood Cottage is the perfect home from home in Lake Tekapo for your upcoming vacation. It is a brand new homestay featuring a perfect mix of rustic and modern ambience and is suitable for a family/group holiday or a getaway for couples. It can sleep a maximum of 6 people and features 4 well-maintained bedrooms with 6 beds and 2.5 bathrooms. Guests get an opportunity of a lifetime stargazing into the mystical night sky of Tekapo. A fully functional kitchen can take care of the cooking needs of the guests. Some key facilities arranged here are air conditioning, laptop-friendly workspace, iron, heating, indoor fireplace.
Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand
595 meters (0.4 ft) from The Church of the Good Shepherd
Luscious Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
Come, enjoy a delightful vacation in Lake Tekapo with your dear ones. If you love nature, lakes, and mountains, you have definitely chosen the right holiday destination for yourself. Since a good accommodation is a key ingredient for a successful holiday, check out the above-listed Airbnb vacation rentals in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand.
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