Lake Tekapo — dramatic mountain scenery on the water
Surrounded by the peaks and glaciers of the Southern Alps, Lake Tekapo’s mountainous landscape will take your breath away. A tiny township stares across the lake’s milky blue water towards the icy mountains, providing a picture-perfect vantage point to take in the alpine scenery.
And the stunning sights don’t disappear at sunset — Lake Tekapo is a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it a sparkling star-gazing destination by night. You might even catch the Southern Lights on a clear evening.
YHA opened the brand new waterfront YHA Lake Tekapo in April 2019. We can’t wait to see you!
at a glance
Best known for
turquoise water and snow topped peaks
Did you know
under 400 people live in the township
Don't leave without
a dip in the hot pools under the stars
stories
Top Things To Do In Christchurch
With two YHA hostels and our National Office located in Ōtautahi Christchurch, we like to think we know a thing or two about our wee town.
Top 4 Romantic Hostel Getaways
We know what you’re thinking – hostels don’t exactly scream romance, right? Boy do we have some news for you!
13 Slopes to Ski in New Zealand
Love skiing, snowboarding, snow shoeing or any and all fun on and off the piste? Check out our great snow hostels located near New Zealand's best...
Weekend Road-Tripping in New Zealand
We've put together a helpful guide for making the most of your weekends in 2021! All of our tip-top advice, a few things to keep in mind and even...
Myth Busting: Staying at YHA with kids
We asked Jen from Backyard Travel Family to explore the South Island with us. She has three kids under 8 and hadn’t stayed at a hostel in over 10...
Seven Epic Spots For Stargazing In New Zealand
With dark clear skies, unique celestial displays and earthly landscapes that look like they come from another planet, New Zealand is one of the...
How to Spend 3 Days in Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mt Cook
Heading for a long weekend trip to Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mt Cook? We've put together the must do's and sees in the Mackenzie Country!
Nearby Hostels
view more
YHA Lake Tekapo
Brand new and state of the art, YHA Lake Tekapo hostel features unobstructed lake views, modern facilities, and an adjoining cafe.
view more
YHA Christchurch
YHA Christchurch is a homely heritage building with a modern atmosphere. Located near the town centre, this backpacker hostel is a perfect home base to see everything Christchurch has to offer!
view more
YHA Aoraki Mt Cook
YHA Aoraki Mt Cook offers log cabin-style accommodation in Aoraki Mt Cook village. Surrounded by the monumental views of the Southern Alps the hostel welcomes families, groups and backpackers.
view more
YHA Wanaka
YHA Wanaka's central location boasts views of the lake and mountains. Cosy and sociable, this is the ideal backpacker hostel for discovering all of Wanaka's activities and adventures.
view more
YHA Queenstown Lakefront
YHA Queenstown Lakefront offers lakeview accommodation for families, groups and backpackers. The modern hostel is a short stroll from the CBD with free parking, a large kitchen and social areas.
view more
YHA Queenstown Central
YHA Queenstown Central a secure, comfortable hostel in downtown Queenstown with nearby restaurants, shops and activities. Accommodation options are great for families, backpackers and adventure seeker