HORSE 
TREKKING

A trek on horseback may well be the most spectacular way to experience the high country, whether you’re a beginner or seasoned hand.

A TRUE 
ADVENTURE

Trek through pine forest, along the shores of Lake Tekapo or up to the top of Mount John for unbeatable views. Luckily for our guests, the local guides at Mackenzie Alpine Horses love showing off their backyard.

“Highly recommend MAHT for a spectacular activity to do in Tekapo.  Honestly it could not have been a better experience, Summer and her team are fantastic, the horses are lovely and the views spectacular.”
 


- Jen McGirr

MORE EXPERIENCES

Learn More
STARGAZING

Tekapo is nestled into the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, which means our night sky is pretty darn impressive. From The Cairns, enjoy views of the stars above in delicious solitude. 

Learn More
ANIMAL PETTING FARM

We’ve got a bunch of friendly characters right here at The Cairns to keep you entertained. At our very own petting farm, meet the sheep, cows, and three friendly alpacas: Alpacacino, Alpacapunch and Chewpaca.

Learn More
FARM TOURS

Our high country guided farm tours take you on an exciting adventure filled with epic landscapes and unique insights into farming life, just outside of Lake Tekapo.

Learn More
GOLF COURSE

You have to concentrate on keeping your eye on the game when playing at The Cairns because this is one of the world’s most beautiful golf courses with stunning panoramas of mountains, tussock plains and blue lake.

SEE ALL EXPERIENCES
BEFORE YOU ARRIVE

A LITTLE MORE ON TEKAPO

Are there groceries available in Tekapo?

We have one Four Square grocery store in town, which is open from 8am-8pm. This is smaller than your standard city supermarket but has all the essentials

Is there Emergency Care in Tekapo? 

There is no doctor’s surgery or pharmacy in Lake Tekapo. The nearest hospital is about 1 hour 20 minutes away. The supermarket stocks a small selection of basic first aid items.

How late are restaurants open in Tekapo?

Most restaurants open for dinner from around 5 - 8.30pm or sometimes 9pm in the summer months. Tekapo is a tourist hot spot with fantastic but limited dining options. We recommend making a reservation in advance to avoid disappointment. Get in touch with us for recommendations!

Where can I find out about activities in Tekapo? 

Tekapo has plenty to offer, whether you’re after skiing, mountain biking, hiking, horse riding or wining and dining. Come on over to The Cairns office for a chat with our staff, or check out our Journal page for more information.

WHAT OUR GUESTS ARE SAYING

Fiamma Scilla
18, Jan, 2023

I loved my stay at the Cairns - friendly staff, spotless rooms, stunning views, great facilities and delicious food! Highly recommend!!!

Fiamma Scilla
18, Jan, 2023

I loved my stay at the Cairns - friendly staff, spotless rooms, stunning views, great facilities and delicious food! Highly recommend!!!

Fiamma Scilla
18, Jan, 2023

I loved my stay at the Cairns - friendly staff, spotless rooms, stunning views, great facilities and delicious food! Highly recommend!!!

BOOK DIRECT & SAVE
17:45.40
8.9°C
12
44.0047° S
170.4771° E