Where to Stay in Lake Tekapo (and surrounds)

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, Lake Tekapo and its picturesque surrounds offer an enchanting blend of natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility.

This captivating destination is renowned for its stunning turquoise lake, framed by the towering Southern Alps and set against a backdrop of clear, starry night skies.

As you embark on your journey to Lake Tekapo, one of the first and most important decisions you’ll need to make is where to stay in Lake Tekapo. In this blog post, I will guide you to exploring the best accommodation options in Lake Tekapo and its charming surroundings.

Whether you seek a cozy retreat with panoramic lake views, a luxury escape in the mountains, or a budget-friendly place to rest your head, I’ve got you covered with the post, where to stay in Lake Tekapo.

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Where to Stay in Lake Tekapo (and surrounds)

Hostels $ – $$

Hostels are by far my preferred type of accommodation, especially when travelling for longer periods of time.

Hostels can come in many shapes and sizes but generally they are great value for money and give you the chance to meet other like-minded travellers.

Rooms range from multi-bed dorms with shared facilities to twin/double/family rooms with private bathrooms.

Expect a guest kitchen that you can cook meals in, a laundry, a communal area of sorts to hang out with other travellers and helpful staff who know where all the best and cheapest places to eat and drink are.

The biggest misconception with hostels is that they are only for young people and backpackers. But things have change a lot over the last 10 years and hostel are now a haven for cheap, clean and comfortable accommodation for all ages.

Over the years, I’ve stayed in hostels that are fancier than some hotels. Spacious rooms, comfy bedding and lots of free facilities make them a very attractive offering.

No more should you discount this option as viable just because you don’t fit into the hostel stereotype.

Here are two hostels for a cheap stay in Lake Tekapo and surrounds that will make it easy for nearby exploring during the day and night.

YHA Lake Tekapo

YHA Lake Tekapo is situated on the shores of Lake Tekapo and offers breathtaking views of the turquoise lake and the surrounding Southern Alps. This idyllic location makes it a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts, stargazers, and nature lovers.

This accommodation in Lake Tekapo boasts a range of facilities, including a fully equipped communal kitchen, cozy lounge areas, and a BBQ area.

Accommodation options vary from comfortable dormitory rooms to private en-suite rooms, accommodating a diverse range of travelers. YHA Lake Tekapo is an affordable and welcoming haven for those exploring this beautiful region.

Tailor Made Tekapo – Guesthouse & Hostel

Tailor Made Tekapo Guesthouse and Hostel is nestled in picturesque Lake Tekapo and offers a cozy and welcoming stay for travelers. Conveniently located, this guesthouse and hostel provides a stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps and the tranquil Lake Tekapo.

This affordable accommodation in Lake Tekapo has a range of room types to suit every traveler’s needs, from private ensuites to budget-friendly dormitories, it caters to various preferences and budgets.

The facilities are designed to ensure a comfortable stay, including a communal kitchen, lounge area, and outdoor spaces to appreciate the breathtaking views. Tailor Made Tekapo is a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Self-Catered $$ – $$$$

Expect either apartment style of even houses/villas that have their own private kitchen, separate living area to sleeping area and most of the time a balcony or terrace area.

Self-catered accommodation, while it might be a bit more expensive, can help you save money on eating out which is some cities can be very expensive.

It is also a great option for groups travelling together and families looking for extra space and a more homely experience.

Here are two self-catered apartments in Lake Tekapo and surrounds for those wanting more space.

Tekapo Lakefront Apartments

Tekapo Lakefront Apartments offers a captivating lakeside retreat. Located on the pristine shores of Lake Tekapo, these apartments boast stunning views of the turquoise waters and the Southern Alps.

The accommodations feature a range of well-appointed options, from cozy studios to spacious two-bedroom apartments, catering to various group sizes. Each unit is equipped with modern amenities and a fully equipped kitchen.

Guests can relax in the outdoor hot tub or BBQ area while taking in the breathtaking surroundings. Tekapo Lakefront Apartments provide a serene escape for nature lovers and stargazers in this idyllic South Island destination.

Tekapo Luxury Apartments

Tekapo Luxury Apartments offer a captivating retreat in the picturesque Lake Tekapo region. Nestled amid the stunning Southern Alps, these upscale accommodations provide a perfect base to explore the region’s natural wonders.

This Lake Tekapo accommodation features a range of well-appointed rooms, from spacious studios to lavish multi-bedroom units, catering to various group sizes. Guests can unwind in the outdoor hot tub while gazing at the starry night sky, or savor the breathtaking lake and mountain views from private balconies.

The facilities also include a fully equipped kitchen, modern amenities, and easy access to Tekapo’s famous stargazing opportunities, making it an ideal destination for a luxurious and immersive experience in this beautiful part of New Zealand.

Top Class Hotels $$$ – $$$$

Expect nothing but the best in service and quality at any hotel with a four plus star rating.

Rooms should be spacious and plush with lots of extras like in-room mini-bar, luxury toiletries and a desk or small sitting area.

Staff will go out of their way to help on check-in and out and assist with local activity bookings or any other queries you might have.

Contained in the property for all guests to enjoy might be a pool, gym, cafes/restaurants/bars, conference facilities and many more luxurious facilities.

Here are two options in Lake Tekapo and surrounds for those wanting the splash out a little more during their stay.

Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Grand Suites Lake Tekapo is situated amidst the captivating landscapes of the Southern Alps and the pristine waters of Lake Tekapo, this luxury accommodation provides an unforgettable experience.

The resort boasts a range of facilities, including a spa, a restaurant serving delectable local cuisine, and a heated outdoor pool with breathtaking mountain views.

Grand Suites Lake Tekapo offers an array of room types, from cozy studios to spacious two-bedroom suites, all elegantly appointed with modern amenities and private balconies to enjoy the mesmerizing surroundings. It’s the perfect escape for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.

Mantra Lake Tekapo

Mantra Lake Tekapo is a charming resort offering breathtaking views of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. Located in the picturesque Mackenzie Basin, this resort provides a serene escape for nature enthusiasts and stargazers.

Mantra Lake Tekapo features a range of accommodation options, including spacious apartments, studios, and chalets, catering to both couples and families. Guests can enjoy fully-equipped kitchens, modern amenities, and private balconies in many units.

The resort also boasts an on-site restaurant, bar, and outdoor hot tubs for relaxation. Its convenient location makes it an ideal base for exploring the stunning landscapes and astrophotography opportunities in the region.

Over to You!

Which of these places to stay in Lake Tekapo are you going to pick for your next trip?

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.