Lake Tekapo is a glacial lake located in the Mackenzie Basin in the South Island of New Zealand. It is situated at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level and covers an area of 83 square kilometers. The lake is known for its stunning turquoise color, which is due to the presence of fine rock particles, known as glacial flour, that are suspended in the water.
Lake Tekapo is surrounded by a picturesque landscape of mountains and valleys, and is a popular tourist destination for activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing. The lake is also a popular spot for stargazing due to its clear skies and low light pollution, and it is home to the Mt. John Observatory.
In addition to its natural beauty, Lake Tekapo is also known for its historic Church of the Good Shepherd, which was built in 1935 and is one of the most photographed landmarks in New Zealand. The church was built to provide a place of worship for the early settlers in the area and is open to visitors year-round.