The Mt John Observatory is arguably one of the most beautifully placed observatories in the world, with the magnificent surroundings of glacial lakes and the Southern Alps. Internationally it is recognised for its clear skies, transparency of the atmosphere and uniquely dark skies devoid of city light pollution.

 

Day tours – a unique opportunity to visit a fully functioning scientific
observatory. Learn about Deep Space research plus the natural history of the Mackenzie region. Departures on request from the Astrocafé where you can enjoy the best of coffee and views. Duration 45 minutes
$25 Adult $9 Child

 

Night Tours - navigate through the Southern Sky using a telescope, binoculars and the naked eye. Your passionate guide will show you amazing sites such as our Milky Way Galaxy, the Southern Cross,
Alpha-Centauri - our closest star only 4.3 light years away, and Sirius - the brightest star in our sky. View and learn about our planets, and closest neighbouring galaxies, the Magellanic Clouds, which grace our night sky along with constellations such as Orion the Hunter and Scorpius. Coaches depart from the Tekapo town office at approx 8.00pm Winter and 10.00pm Summer. Duration - allow 2.2 hours.
$61 Adult $32 Child

This brand new complex offers a unique mix of relaxation and recreation all in one stunning location.

 

The Hot Stuff - Alpine Springs & Spa is skillfully landscaped to blend with the natural surroundings,the 3 main pools have been strategically placed to take advantage of the wonderful views over Lake Tekapo. Each pool offers something different in the latest technology such as massage jets to assist in taking away any aches and pains, an air water bed, and fountains. Tucked away in the Douglas fir trees are private tubs available for up to 6 people. These hot tubs feature massage jets, privacy and wonderful views. Temperatures in these pools are adjustable, so you can soak in any temperature you desire. The Day Spa includes a sauna and steam room, plunge pool and 4 treatment rooms as well as a beauty clinic.
 
Hot Pools $13 Adult $7 Child $32 Family (2 Adults & 3 children)
Private Pools 30 mins $16 p.p. 60 mins $25 p.p.
Sauna/Steam 30 mins $16 p.p. 60 mins $25 p.p.
Massage 30 mins $63 p.p. 60 mins $108 p.p.
 
The Cold Stuff - Winter Park features a massive artificial ice rink available from Easter to late Sept for ice hockey, curling and ice skating. The adjacent Snow Park features a 100m metre long by 50m wide slope covered with man made and natural snow dedicated entirely to tobogganing and snow tubing, or simply frolicking in the snow. Snow Park operates from June to late Sept weather permitting Includes Toboggan/Tube
 
$11 Adult $8 Child

A night of drama, action and feasting! Set within an era of dramatic change and uncertainty within New Zealand’s history, the evening encounter, “Lost in our Own Land” re-lives the impact of colonisation upon our indigenous nation, the Maori people from 1820 onward – a time in which many felt trapped between the promise of the new ways and the significance of their ancient values. The Maori village, the fortified Pa and the colonial village sites come to life throughout this spectacular evening encounter. Walk through the Maori Pa (village) and experience our people’s way of life during this fractious time. Travel by tram through the colonial town. Feel, first hand, the impact of this time of change. Feast upon a selection of traditional Maori hangi and Colonial banquet food. Enjoy the steam train ride at the end of the evening as you take with you memories of this powerful journey and events that shaped the history of our country. Two sets of values, beliefs and lifestyles…and only one way forward. Commences 6.30pm, duration 3 hrs, note guests must make their own way to the venue (10 mins drive from Christchurch CBD). Includes dinner, drinks available for purchase.

 

Half Day Fishing Charters - For a great day out try fishing in Akaroa Harbour and its coastal bays. Akaroa is famous for its aquatic wildlife (dolphins, seals & penguins) and scenic splendour. Includes use of rod,
tackle and bait. Guests to take their own refreshments. Departs on demand, subject to weather conditions. Duration 3.5 - 4 hours. Max 8 people. $90 p.p

Fish & Ski Combo – can’t decide on which, now you can do both!Includes 2 hours fishing and 1.5 hours of water skiing. Includes rod, tackle, bait, water skis, kneeboard, wakeboard and wetsuits. Max of 4 people. Departs on demand, subject to weather conditions. Duration 5 hours. Max 5 people.
$134 p.p.

Pure Water Ski - Experienced or beginners, includes full tuition, use of waterskis, kneeboard, wakeboard, ski biscuit and wetsuits. Departs on demand, duration 3 hours. Max 5 people.
$134 p.p.

Akaroa Harbour is the only place on the planet where you can swim with the world's smallest and rarest Dolphins - the Hector’s or New Zealand Dolphin. Black Cat Cruises operate a jet-powered catamaran for ultimate safety for you and the dolphins. Everything is provided including wetsuits, masks, snorkels, hot showers, hot chocolate and a free gift pack. You can also watch the dolphins from the vessel. Report times: 8.30am, 11.30am & 1.30pm (Oct-April) & 11.30am (May-Sep).
Swimmer $99 Adult $81 Child
Non swimmer $54 Adult $32 Child

2 Hour Nature Cruise - The historic French Village of Akaroa is 90 minutes drive from Christchurch where you will join the Supreme Tourism Award winner for 2003/4, Black Cat Cruises. Akaroa Harbour is home to Hector’s dolphins, White Flippered Penguins, Fur Seals, and many sea birds. Other highlights of the daily cruise include visits to Cathedral Cave and the sites of early Maori settlements. Departs daily from Akaroa main wharf at 1.30 pm.
$49 Adult $18 Child

2 Hour Harbour Cruise - Just 15 minutes from the city is scenic Lyttelton Harbour located in an extinct volcanic crater. On a two hour cruise with award winning Black Cat Cruises, you will see the beautiful and rare New Zealand (Hector's) dolphin. You will also see historic forts, islands and hear about the region's fascinating history. A free shuttle departs from Cathedral Square and connects with each 1.30pm cruise

 

Cnr Rue Lavaud & Rue Grehan. Tranquil setting with stream boundary. Each unit with its own balcony or garden patio. Featuring double glazing, Sky TV, CD/stereo, internet, kitchen facilities, electric heating, hairdryers. Guest laundry & off street parking. Easy walking distance to cafes, restaurants & shops. Porta cot/highchair. Continental breakfast available. Serviced daily.

# Min 2 night stay Dec/Jan