This was one of the most lovely views I got in New Zealand. Lake Tekapo is 700 metres above sea level and covers 83 square kilometres, so it is really impressive with the mountain view behind the lake. Like a giant’s bathing place!
Be sure to wear sunscreen when visiting one of the lakes, the water reflects so much of the UV rays that you almost immediately can get a sunburn. I forgot to reapply on my feet, so the pattern from my walking sandals stayed with me for almost half a year. Not so nice!
There is a chapel at Lake Tekapo, the Church of the Good Shepherd, where many couples get married. When you got to see the mountain view right behind the altar … you know why:
From the astronomical observatory at Mount John hilltop you have a great view upon Lake Alexandrina which has dark blue water.
Looking from the other hilltop side you see Lake Tekapo with its stunnig turquoise blue water.
When you take the gravel road north, you get closer and closer to the Southern Alps. I promise you, when you are there, you will feel a little bit like in one of the Lord of the Rings movies, only better because you can explore everything all by yourself.
What we indeed got to see much of that day was the gravel road. 20 kilometres to the mountain view, 20 kilometres back, … the lupins cheer you up. Also you get to see so many birds, that’s amazing!
If you ever gonna be in New Zealand, make sure to have enough time to spend at Lake Tekapo. Grab some picnic stuff and make yourself comfortable at the shore. Rest, get some peace of mind.
