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Lake Pukaki

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, Lake Pukaki dazzles with its stunning turquoise waters, irresistibly picturesque mountain backdrop, and charming walking trails. Don’t miss the iconic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook! Whether you’re snapping selfies or soaking in serene vibes, this lakeside gem promises unforgettable memories and a splash of adventure. Dive into tranquility!

Recommendations

Landmark4.9/5

Lake Pukaki

Turquoise water fills this lake beneath the Southern Alps. When clouds lift, Aoraki / Mount Cook appears beyond the far shore.

Landmark4.8/5

Tapataia Mahaka Peter's Lookout (Lake Pukaki Viewpoint) (Mount Cook Road)

Discover breathtaking views at Tapataia Mahaka Peter's Lookout, where the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki meet the majestic backdrop of Mount Cook, creating an iconic and unforgettable New Zealand experience.

Landmark4.8/5

Lake Pukaki Viewpoint

Experience breathtaking vistas at Lake Pukaki Viewpoint, where the stunning azure hues of the lake contrast dramatically with the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Landmark4.4/5

The Tahr Statue

A life-size bronze tahr stands on a boulder at this Lake Pukaki viewpoint. From here, you look across the water toward Mount Cook.

Landmark4.3/5

Pukaki Flats Conservation Area

Pukaki Flats Conservation Area offers stunning views of the turquoise Lake Pukaki against a backdrop of the Southern Alps, making it an iconic destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Transport4.8/5

Lake Pukaki car park

Eat$$$$$4.7/5

The Moraine - Fine Dining Restaurant

Eat4.5/5

Mt Cook Alpine Salmon Shop

Cafe$$$4.4/5

Poppies Cafe

Eat$$$4.7/5

Mint Folk & Co

Eat$$$4.3/5

Ministry of Works Bar & Eatery

Cafe$$$4.3/5

High Country Salmon

Eat$$$4.5/5

FishTail restaurant and bar

Drink$$$4.2/5

Razza Bar

Eat$$$4.5/5

Jasmine Thai Restaurant

Cafe$$$4.4/5

AJ's Kitchen

Cafe$$$4.5/5

The Musterers Hut Cafe

Eat$$$3.8/5

Twizel Bakery Cafe

Drink5/5

Resurrection Distillery

Stays

Stay$$$$4.75/5

Rosedale Cottages

Rosedale Cottages in Twizel offers a holiday home with two bedrooms and a living room. The property features a fully equipped kitchen, air-conditioning, and a private entrance. Guests benefit from private check-in and check-out, a 24-hour front desk, daily housekeeping, laundry service, and free WiFi. Additional amenities include an outdoor seating area, sun terrace, and free use of bicycles. Located 155 km from Richard Pearse Airport, the property is near skiing, windsurfing, and cycling activities. The surrounding area offers mountain and garden views. Highly rated by guests, Rosedale Cottages is praised for its friendly host, well-equipped kitchen, and excellent location.

Stay$$$$4.75/5

Twizel Cottages

Twizel Cottages in Twizel offers a recently renovated holiday home with air-conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, and a private bathroom. Guests enjoy free WiFi, streaming services, and a dining area. The property features an outdoor seating area, terrace, balcony, and garden. Additional amenities include bicycle parking, barbecue facilities, and ski storage. Free on-site private parking is available. Twizel Cottages is ideal for skiing, hiking, and cycling. The Richard Pearse Airport is 155 km away. Guests appreciate the cleanliness of the rooms and the quality of the kitchen.

Stay4.85/5

Te Manahuna Retreat

Te Manahuna Retreat - Luxury Cabin in Ohau offers a holiday home with one bedroom and a living room. Guests enjoy a garden and free WiFi, perfect for relaxation. The property features a hot tub, electric vehicle charging station, and free on-site private parking. Additional amenities include a washing machine, dishwasher, and streaming services. A continental, à la carte, vegetarian, and vegan breakfast is served, including juice and fruits. The dining area provides a comfortable space to start the day. Guests can enjoy garden and mountain views from the patio and outdoor dining area. The property is 148 km from Wanaka Airport, offering convenient travel options.

Stay5/5

Pukaki Lakeside Getaway

Nestled along the stunning shores of Pukaki Lakeside Getaway, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the turquoise lake framed by the majestic Southern Alps, making it the perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Stay4.9/5

Lakestone Lodge, Lake Pukaki

Nestled by the stunning Lake Pukaki, Lakestone Lodge offers breathtaking alpine views, luxurious accommodations, and unparalleled access to outdoor adventures, making it an iconic destination for nature lovers and relaxation seekers alike.

Stay4.9/5

Mount Cook Lakeside Retreat

This lakeside retreat pairs private villas with fine dining, looking across Lake Pukaki toward Aoraki. After dark, the surrounding Aoraki Mackenzie sky takes over.

Stay4.9/5

Matuka Lodge

Stay3.5/5

High Country Lodge and Backpackers

Things To Do
Provided by

5/5

Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo Day Trip from Christchurch

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the South Island on a private day tour from Christchurch to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and Lake Tekapo. Travel through the Canterbury Plains with a stop at Fairlie Bakehouse for a quick breakfast or coffee. Visit the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, with an optional seasonal stop at the New Zealand Alpine Lavender Farm. Continue along the stunning Lake Pukaki with incredible views of Aoraki / Mount Cook. At Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, enjoy a short walk to Kea Point / Mueller Glacier Lake Lookout. Explore the renowned Hooker Valley Track/ Tasman Valley to view the impressive Tasman Glacier before returning to Christchurch.

$194.90

5/5

240 h

10 Day North to South Island NZ Private Tour from Auckland

This signature 10-day, 9-night tour offers a perfect blend of daily travel, covering the majority of top attractions in both North Island (Auckland to Rotorua) and South Island (Christchurch to Milford Sound). The tour includes transfer flight, and optional handpicked activities, hotels & departure flight, ensuring you experience the best itinerary within your limited time in NZ without the hassles of planning endless things and driving long distances on your own. The itinerary is crafted to showcase the beauty of NZ in a relaxed style within an ideal number of days. Besides visiting many of the top attractions in NZ, enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for unbelievably long list of 15-17 optional activities, ensuring a diverse experience. Enjoy the luxury of a private tour for your group, with a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Choose to finish at Auckland or Christchurch or Queenstown.

$6,268.66

5/5

144 h

6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch

This signature 6-day tour offers a perfect blend of travel per day covering the majority of top attractions in New Zealand's South Island, optional handpicked activities and accommodations. Experience the best of the South Island without the hassle of planning which attractions to visit, where to stay, what to do, all without driving long distances on your own. The itinerary ensures a relaxed experience. Enjoy the luxury of a private tour for your group. Benefit from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 9-10 optional activities, like a helicopter ride, TranzAlpine train ride, stargazing, jet boating, a Gondola ride, Kiwi park or Hot Pool Soak, Milford or Doubtful Sound cruise, a tour of Te Anau Glowworm caves, and Guided Kayaking or a Whale Cruise, or a Nature Cruise & an Alpaca farm visit. Choose to finish at Queenstown or Christchurch.

$3,287.05

5/5

11 h

Lake Tekapo Private Day Trip from Queenstown

Escape the crowds with a fully private, customizable 12-hour day trip from Queenstown to the turquoise wonder of Lake Tekapo. Travel through spectacular alpine landscapes, charming towns, and shimmering lakes — with the freedom to stop anywhere along the way. - 12-hour private tour shaped around your interests and pace - Travel via Wanaka or Cromwell (Your Journey, Your Way!) - Visit Lindis Pass, Omarama, Twizel, Lake Pukaki, and the famous Church of the Good Shepherd - Enjoy fresh salmon at Lake Pukaki and seasonal lupin blooms (late spring/early summer) - Optional stop at the unique Clay Cliffs near Omarama - Flexible itinerary — add photo stops, short walks, or local food breaks anytime - Comfortable, modern vehicles with your own friendly local driver-guide - Perfect for couples, families, small groups, or solo adventurers Breathtaking scenery, iconic landmarks, and total flexibility — this is the ultimate way to experience Lake Tekapo and the Mackenzie region in a single day.

$593.41

5/5

216 h

9 Day South to North Island NZ Private Tour from Queenstown

This signature 9-day, 8-night tour offers a perfect blend of daily travel, covering the majority of top attractions in both South Island (Milford Sound to Christchurch) and North Island (Rotorua to Auckland). The tour includes convenient transfer flight ticket, and optional must-do activities & luxury accommodations, ensuring you experience the best itinerary within your limited time in New Zealand without the hassles of planning endless things and driving long distances on your own. The itinerary is crafted to showcase the beauty of New Zealand in a relaxed style within an ideal number of days. Besides visiting and experiencing many of the top attractions in New Zealand, you may also opt for an unbelievably long list of renowned and carefully selected 14-16 activities, ensuring a diverse experience. Enjoy the luxury of a private tour, with a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for you. Start at Queenstown and finish at Auckland.

$5,934.14

5/5

13 h

Christchurch to Queenstown One Way Tour Via Lake Tekapo & Mt Cook

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Enjoying the scenic views between Christchurch and Queenstown with a fully guided, adventure-filled journey through the breathtaking Southern Alps. Embark on a scenic tour stops at Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, Aoraki/MT.Cook, Tasman Glacier, High Country Salmon, Lindis Pass and Resort town and finally arriving in Queenstown. On your journey explore region’s dramatic landscapes, capture memorable photographs, and learn about the area's natural and cultural significance. The tour concludes in Queenstown, offering a truly enriching and immersive travel experience.

$346.16

5/5

120 h

5 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Queenstown

This immersive 5 day tour from Queenstown offers you a perfect mixture of travel each day, visiting the majority of the top attractions in New Zealand's South Island. Enjoy optional handpicked activities and places to stay without needing to worry about planning or driving long distances yourself. The itinerary showcases the beauty of the South Island in a relaxed way. Enjoy comfort of a private tour for your group, benefiting from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of handpicked 8-9 optional activities, like a scenic helicopter ride, Milford or Doubtful Sound cruise, a unique tour of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, a scenic gondola ride, thrill jet boating, stargazing in Dark Sky Reserves, the TranzAlpine scenic train ride, and Guided Kayaking or a Whale Cruise, or a Nature Cruise & visiting an Alpaca farm. Start at Queenstown and finish at Christchurch.

$2,850.71

5/5

288 h

12 Day New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland to Queenstown

This ultimate 12-day, 11-night tour offers a perfect blend of daily travel, covering majority of top attractions in both North Island (Auckland to Wellington) and South Island (Kaikōura to Stewart Island). It includes a transfer flight, and optional handpicked activities and luxury hotels, ensuring you experience the best itinerary within your limited time in NZ without the hassles of planning, coordinating endless details, and driving long distances on your own. The itinerary is crafted to showcase the beauty of NZ in an ultimate style for a lifetime memorable trip. Besides visiting many of the top attractions in NZ, enjoy flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a curated mixture of 19–21 optional activities, ensuring an ultimate and diverse experience. Enjoy the luxury of a private tour, with a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for you throughout the tour. Start in Auckland and finish in Queenstown, both cities with international airports.

$7,941.27

5/5

12 h

Mt. Cook Private Day Trip From Queenstown with Lake Tekapo

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Let’s explore New Zealand's Tallest Peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook’s Māori Significance, Tasman Glacier – New Zealand's Largest Glacier, Unique Flora and Fauna, Mountaineering History, Icebergs and Ice Caves, Panoramic Helicopter Flights, Photographer’s Paradise, beautiful lakes (Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki) and Lavender farm. We invite you to consider Kiwi Adventures Tour & Travel as an integral part of your next adventure. Our private tour offers something for everyone.

$340.34

5/5

144 h

6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Auckland

This immersive 6-day tour gives a perfect mixture of travel each day, visiting the majority of top attractions in New Zealand's South Island. Enjoy included arrival flight, and optional handpicked activities & places to stay, without needing to worry about planning or driving long distances. The itinerary showcases the beauty of the South Island in a relaxed way. Enjoy the comfort of a private tour for your group. Benefit from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 9-10 optional activities, like a helicopter ride, TranzAlpine train ride, stargazing, thrill jet boating, a scenic Gondola ride, Kiwi park or Hot pool soak, a cruise in Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, a tour of Te Anau Glowworm caves, and Guided Kayaking or a Whale Cruise, or a Nature Cruise & visiting an Alpaca farm. Choose to finish at Auckland or Christchurch or Queenstown.

$3,665.20

5/5

13 h

Mt. Cook Full Day Private Tour via Tekapo from Christchurch

The journey from Christchurch to Mount Cook offers stunning scenery and unique experiences. You can take the scenic route through the Canterbury Plains, passing by beautiful lakes like Lake Tekapo, known for its turquoise waters and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd. Along the way, there are opportunities for short hikes, such as the Tekapo Spring Walk or the Hooker Valley Track at Mount Cook. You can also enjoy local attractions, like the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, perfect for stargazing. The day is filled with breathtaking landscapes, outdoor activities, and a chance to appreciate the stunning natural beauty of New Zealand.

$186.17

5/5

13 h

Queenstown to Christchurch One Way Tour Via Lake Tekapo & Mt Cook

Totally Personalized Private Experience! Enjoying the scenic views between Queenstown and Christchurch and with a fully guided, adventure-filled journey through the breathtaking Southern Alps. Embark on a scenic tour stops at Lindis Pass and Resort town, High Country Salmon, Aoraki/MT.Cook, Tasman Glacier, Lake Pukaki, Lake Tekapo and finally arriving in Christchurch. On your journey explore region’s dramatic landscapes, capture memorable photographs, and learn about the area's natural and cultural significance. The tour concludes in Christchurch, offering a truly enriching and immersive travel experience.

$404.34

5/5

72 h

Private 3 Day Queenstown Glenorchy Wanaka and Tekapo

Explore the stunning landscapes of New Zealand's South Island over three immersive days. From the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo to the charming streets of Arrowtown, tailor your adventure to suit your pace and interests. Enjoy half-day tours of Glenorchy’s dramatic scenery and Wanaka's lakeside beauty, plus a full-day journey to Mt. Cook National Park. - 3-day private tour exploring Glenorchy, Wanaka, and Lake Tekapo - Flexible itinerary with customizable stops and activities - Daily hotel pick-up from Queenstown, returning each evening - Discover iconic sights and enjoy lakeside walks and stargazing opportunities Your local guide will pick you up each morning from your Queenstown accommodation in a comfortable vehicle, making stops at breathtaking lookouts and hidden gems along the way. Enjoy the flexibility to customize your tour with optional activities and plenty of time for photos, walks, and local cafés.

$654.50

5/5

96 h

4 Day Tour to Milford Sound, Mount Cook & More from Queenstown

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day journey through New Zealand's stunning South Island, exploring many of its major attractions and experiencing the serene beauty of each destination. Start your tour in the adventure capital Queenstown and conclude in the vibrant city Christchurch. Enjoy ride to Arthur's Pass, marveling at the unique rock formations of Castle Hill, before returning on the iconic TranzAlpine Scenic Train. Immerse yourself in the majestic scenery of Mount Cook and the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki. Enjoy stargazing at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best places in the world for night sky viewing. Discover the enchanting Te Anau Glowworm Caves and the sparkling waters of Milford or Doubtful Sound. Throughout the tour, enjoy the hospitality of a knowledgeable guide-driver, a comfortable vehicle, and scenic drives.

$2,065.31

5/5

96 h

4 Day Tour to Milford Sound, Mount Cook & More from Christchurch

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day journey through New Zealand's stunning South Island, exploring many of its major attractions and experiencing the serene beauty of each destination. Start your tour in the vibrant city of Christchurch and conclude in the adventure capital Queenstown. Take a ride on the iconic TranzAlpine Scenic Train to Arthur's Pass. Experience the serene beauty of Arthur's Pass National Park and marvel at the unique rock formations at Castle Hill. Immerse yourself in the majestic scenery of Mount Cook and the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki. Enjoy stargazing at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best places in the world for night sky viewing. Discover the enchanting Te Anau Glowworm Caves and the sparkling waters of Milford or Doubtful Sound. Throughout the tour, benefit from the expertise of a knowledgeable guide-driver and enjoy a private vehicle exclusively for your group.

$2,079.86

5/5

120 h

5 Day South Island Tour from Queenstown including Stewart Island

This curated 5 day tour from Queenstown offers you a perfect mixture of travel each day, visiting many of the top attractions in New Zealand's South. Enjoy optional handpicked activities and places to stay without needing to worry about planning or driving long distances yourself. The itinerary showcases the beauty of the South New Zealand in a relaxed way. Enjoy the comfort of a private tour for your group, benefiting from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 10 optional activities, like a scenic helicopter ride, Milford Sound or Doubtful cruise, a tour of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, a visit to transport museum, round-trip ferry & flight ticket between Stewart Island and Bluff, guided exploration in Stewart Island, alpine horse trekking, stargazing in Dark Sky Reserve, and a private hot soak experience. Start and finish at Queenstown.

$2,967.07

5/5

Lake Tekapo Escape: A Private Scenic Tour from Queenstown

Explore the South Island’s most striking alpine landscapes on this private scenic journey from Queenstown. Travel through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge and over the sweeping views of the Lindis Pass, pausing in Omarama and the Mackenzie Basin for memorable photo stops among vast high‑country scenery. Take in the vivid turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki and enjoy flexible time in Lake Tekapo — visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, stroll the lakeshore, or relax with a peaceful café break. Optional detours to the Clay Cliffs and High Country Salmon, add a touch of adventure, all while travelling in the comfort of your premium vehicles. - Scenic journey featuring Kawarau Gorge and Lindis Pass - Flexible exploration at Lake Tekapo, including the Church of the Good Shepherd - Optional stops for lunch and stunning views of Lake Pukaki - Ideal for couples, families, and solo travellers, with plenty of photo opportunities - Premium vehicles with a relaxing curated music playlist

$592.83

5/5

144 h

6Day/5Nights Southern Heritage

A six-day INDEPENDANT travel package departing Christchurch daily, experience the scenic South Island of New Zealand. Travel by coach from Christchurch via Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook to Queenstown, travel from Queenstown across to Dunedin before returning to Christchurch. Your journey includes a nature cruise in both Milford Sounds and on the Dunedin harbour as well as a guided tour of Larnach Castle on the Otago Peninsula. The tour includes 5 nights' accommodation. This tour may operate in reverse order, subject to transport provider availability.

$1,265.37

5/5

96 h

4 Day Tour to Milford Sound, Mount Cook & More from Auckland

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day journey through New Zealand's stunning South Island, exploring many of its major attractions. Start your tour in Auckland, one of the major gateways to NZ, and conclude in the vibrant city of Christchurch. Experience Queenstown's beauty while exploring Lake Wakatipu, Gardens, and lakeside streets. Thrill at 360-degree spins on a jet boat and enjoy panoramic views from Skyline Queenstown. Discover the enchanting Te Anau Glowworm Caves and the sparkling waters of Milford Sound. Immerse yourself in the majestic scenery of Mount Cook and the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki. Enjoy stargazing at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best places in the world for night sky viewing. Drive to Arthur's Pass, marveling at the unique rock formations of Castle Hill, before returning on TranzAlpine Scenic Train. Throughout the tour, enjoy hospitality of a knowledgeable guide-driver, a comfortable vehicle, and scenic drives.

$2,472.56

5/5

13 h

(MT) Mount Cook Return Day Tour Via Lake Tekapo from Christchurch

Carefully timed stops at the Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Pukaki, and NZ Alpine Lavender Farm offer world-class photo opportunities. Travel during lavender bloom season (Nov–Mar) for purple fields framed by snow-capped mountains. A rare addition to any day tour: NZ Alpine Lavender, the largest certified organic lavender farm in the Southern Hemisphere. Enjoy artisan lavender ice cream, high-quality local products, and breathtaking lavender fields—only available Nov to March. Professional, experienced driver lowest price Clean Car