Lake Tekapo: An Unforgettable Adventure in New Zealand
For many travelers, New Zealand is a land of adventure and beauty. From the snow-capped mountains of the Southern Alps to the lush rainforests of the North Island, New Zealand offers an incredible range of activities and experiences. But among all these incredible places, one of the most stunning is Lake Tekapo, located in the center of the South Island.
Lake Tekapo is a stunning glacial lake, with crystal-clear waters and a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a range of activities and experiences. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, or an adventure-filled holiday, Lake Tekapo has something for everyone.
History of Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo has a long and fascinating history. It is believed to have been formed around 12,000 years ago, when a large glacier moved through the area and left behind a deep lake. The lake was a popular destination for Maori people, who called it “Tekapu”, meaning “the lake of the gods”.
The first European settlers arrived in the area in the late 1800s, and soon established a small farming community. The area quickly became a popular tourist destination, and in 1948, the government declared the lake a scenic reserve, protecting it from development.
Amazing Facts about Lake Tekapo
• Lake Tekapo is the second-largest of the three glacial lakes in the Mackenzie Basin, and the third-largest in New Zealand.
• It is home to the world’s largest dark sky reserve, offering some of the best stargazing opportunities in the world.
• The lake is renowned for its stunning turquoise-blue color, which is caused by the glacial flour suspended in the water.
• The lake is home to a variety of native wildlife, including ducks, swans, and eels.
Things to Do at Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo offers a range of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the best things to do while visiting the lake:
• Stargazing: As mentioned above, Lake Tekapo is home to the world’s largest dark sky reserve. This makes it the perfect spot for stargazing, with some of the clearest and most spectacular views of the night sky.
• Boating: Lake Tekapo is a popular spot for boating, with a range of boats available for hire.
• Hiking: There are a number of trails around the lake, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
• Skiing and Snowboarding: The surrounding mountains are a great spot for skiing and snowboarding, with a range of runs and terrain parks.
• Fishing: The lake is a popular spot for trout fishing, with a range of species available.
• Swimming: The crystal-clear waters of the lake are perfect for swimming, and there are a number of beaches and spots to take a dip.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an adventure-filled holiday, Lake Tekapo is the perfect destination. With its stunning scenery, range of activities and incredible wildlife, it is an unforgettable experience.