In our ‘Complete Guide’ series, we’re going to be visiting some of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations and getting the inside track from our GO Explore followers on the best places to stay, eat, drink, tramp and more. Instead of just finding out what the guidebooks tell you, find out what the locals and the travellers think when it comes to the best place to get an ice cream, the best fish and chips and the best cocktail you’ve ever had! We’ve also recommended the best rental car so you can explore the region in comfort and style!

In this Complete Guide, we’re going to be taking a deeper dive into the popular South Island destinations of Tekapo and Mt Cook. Located in the central South Island, Tekapo is an awesome place to visit all year round. From the winter skiing to the spring lupins to the turquoise waters – there’s so much to love about Tekapo. Nearby Mt Cook village is a great place to base yourself for exploring the Mt Cook National Park. Set to the backdrop of New Zealand’s biggest mountain, and with amazing walks wherever you look, this is an outdoor lower’s paradise. So, let’s get stuck in and give you some top tips for making the most of a trip to these two fantastic destinations. Let’s GO!

Best accommodation in Tekapo and Mt Cook

There is a great range of accommodation options in both Tekapo and in and around Mt Cook. From luxury hotels to camping, Airbnbs to cheap and cheerful motels. It is possible to explore Mt Cook from a base in Tekapo – it’s a bit of a drive to get out there but it can definitely be done. Most people, however, will stay for a couple of nights in Tekapo and then push on to Mt Cook for at least one more night before carrying on with your South Island adventure. No matter what you do, here are some of the best accommodation option in Tekapo and Mt Cook.

Lake Tekapo Village Motel - Tekapo

A top tip from GO Explorer Carly after her South Island Adventure, the Lake Tekapo Village Motel is an awesome place to base yourself for exploring the area. Located right in the heart of the town, the Lake Tekapo Village Motel is just a short walk away from the Church of the Good Shepherd. From here, you can also access some great walking paths that will take you around the shores of the lake. The rooms all come with kitchen facilities and free WiFi making it a great option for those travelling on a budget.

Aoraki Mt Cook Alpine Lodge - Mt Cook

There aren’t loads of accommodation options out at Mt Cook but there are some great ones! The Aoraki Alpine Lodge is a favourite amongst our GO Explorers that head out to Mt Cook and for good reason. The lodge offers lots of different accommodation options including hotel rooms, studios, apartments and bunk rooms making it great for all budgets. The fact that the lodge is within walking distance of the Hooker Track is a definite bonus for those wanting to explore this awesome region.

The Godley Hotel - Tekapo

Another popular spot in Tekapo is the Godley Hotel. With 70 guest rooms available and located right in the heart of the town, the Godley Hotel also has a swimming pool and spa which are extremely popular with families and those looking to kick back and relax. Located just a stone’s throw from the Church of the Good Shepherd and with impressive views of the mountains, this is a great option for the budget conscious traveller.

Mt Cook Lodge and Motels - Mt Cook

Another lodge located in Mt Cook Village is Mt Cook Lodge and Motels. This place is perfect for all types of travellers – from families to backpackers to those looking for something a bit more fancy. The lodge enjoys spectacular views out over the Mt Cook National Park and has an onsite bar and restaurant that is popular with guests and visitors alike. There is an awesome BBQ area and beer garden which is the perfect place to sit back and relax after a day out walking in the park.

The Mackenzie Apartments - Tekapo

If you are looking for something a bit more up market when you head to Tekapo, make sure you check out The Mackenzie Apartments and Suites. This boutique accommodation has truly stunning views out across Lake Tekapo and is set back away from the shores and the main town. The apartments and suites are the perfect home away from home and great for those planning on staying for a few days or longer with laundry facilities, garaging for the car and gas log fires for those cold winter days.

YHA Aoraki Mt Cook Backpackers - Mt Cook

You have got to hand it to the YHA – they have some amazing locations for their hostels! This one is definitely no exception. The YHA Aoraki Mt Cook Backpackers is a cosy, log-cabin style building which was recently refurbished with new bedrooms and a new kitchen. The lounge has an amazing log burning fire which is perfect after a day spent out exploring the park. With 2GB of free WiFi every day and a wide selection of rooms from 7-bed dorms to private doubles, this is a popular spot all year round.

Best places to eat out in Tekapo and Mt Cook

Tekapo is not the biggest town in New Zealand but for a relatively small destination, it’s not short on great places to eat out. Mt Cook Village is another place that bats above its average when it comes to choices for eating out. What both of these places do enjoy is stunning vistas. Whether it’s looking out over the turquoise lake or staring up at the mountains, you will never be short of a view for dinner in either location. Here are some of the top tips from our GO Explorers:

Best walks in Tekapo and Mt Cook

As you would imagine, there are some pretty amazing walks to be found in both Tekapo and in particular, in Mt Cook National Park. Most people who head down here come for the amazing outdoor opportunities – skiing in the winter and other snow activities and some great walking tracks in the summer. Here are some of the best walks in Tekapo and Mt Cook and some of the amazing views you are rewarded with:

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