Time Out in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
August 26th 2008 22:09
Lake Tekapo is largest of three roughly parallel lakes running north-south along the northern edge of the Mackenzie Basin in the South Island of New Zealand (the others are Lake Pukaki and Lake Ohau). It covers an area of 83 km², and is at an altitude of 700 metres above sea level.
The lake is fed at its northern end by the braided Godley River, which has its source in the Southern Alps, to the north.The lake is a popular tourist destination, and several resort hotels are located at the township of Lake Tekapo at the lake's southern end.
An astronomical observatory is located at Mount John, which is to the north of the town, and south of the small Lake Alexandrina. (net sourced)
After such a great trip to Arthur’s Pass the week before, I decided on taking the opportunity for a visit to Lake Tekapo for a few days with the intention to capture the majestic beauty of the Southern Alps. The drive is approx 3hrs South from Christchurch along state highways 1, before turning off at Geraldine, highway 79 and then again at Fairlie onto highway 8. As to be expected there is a lot of tourist traffic traveling through the area, so it’s nice to just enjoy the journey and relax.
I left the city with overcast skies and a forecast of rain over the next few days but with the recent winter weather we have had, I was hopeful that there would be some great photography to be had down South.
Just outside Christchurch, I saw a hitchhiker with a sign saying Tekapo, so as that where I was going, I thought I’d stop. Turned out that Zac was studying in Palmerston North but was originally from Ohio in the states. He was just taking some time out to see the South Island with the intention of meeting up with friends in Queenstown. Generally I only pick up tourists hitch hiking as probably a bit safer and also its interesting to chat to people from different countries.
Anyway arrived in Lake Tekapo with the same low clouds and drizzle that I thought I might have left behind in Chch so on arrival, couldn’t see much of the stunning views that the township is famous for.
I had booked ahead the previous week at the local backpackers and a double room cost $60NZ a night( due to the high number of tourists through, its best to book ahead)
Lakeside Back Packers
View from the lounge area
With the rain becoming more constant, I decided I would visit the Alpine Springs Spa and Winter Park, just 5 mins along the shore front from the backpackers. These have opened beginning of this year, consisting of hot pools, sauna/steam room, day spa and ice skating rink. Cost of hot pools is $14 NZ or $19 including steam and sauna rooms. So after a drive from Chch, sitting in a 41deg hot pool whilst looking over a cloudy lake Tekapo was just the tonic.
As its my birthday, I had wanted to go for a heli ride over the Alps and glaciers but due to the weather being so poor, I decided on treating myself to an hour at the day spa. So the following day I had a 35 min neck, arms and shoulder massage, followed by a man's facial, which I have to admit was very relaxing. Cost was $60 NZ each and there were other options available, so well worth treating yourself too as included in price was entry to hot pools. Due to high demand, its worth booking ahead for this so not to miss out.
View from hot pools
Next to the lake is Mt John which is a nice climb upto the summit where there is the Uinversity of Canterbury, astronomy telescopes. the sign at the bottom advises 1 hour to the the top and in dry conditions it would be pretty straight forward although I went up at 8.30am and there was still icey snow covering the track in places and was pleased I took a walking pole.
Bunnies at play
Looking back towards the tree line
The Astro cafe which opens 10-5 during winter hours, there is also a website for star tours, stars@tekapostralight.co.nz
As you can see, there wasn't too much to see when I was there but its well worth the effort on a clear day. Climb up took 35 mins and down 25 mins so a great way to start the day.
next post will cover Mt Cook National Park
Words and pics by Heath
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Comment by Cibbuano
20/20 Filmsight
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Hunt Famous
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Fat Cult
Techbreak
what's in the observatory?
Comment by kiwiauthor
Cheers
Heath