Lake Tekapo Dary Sky Reserve Aotearoa

During a recent visit to Lake Tekapo, we were fortunate to witness the Southern Lights directly behind the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd. Despite freezing, windy conditions, the aurora was clearly visible above this dark sky reserve, which was an unforgettable moment to tick of the bucket list.

Māori were the first to venture into the Mackenzie region, which was part of an extensive food-gathering network known for its weka and eel resources. The traditional name of the lake is Takapō, meaning “to leave in haste at night.” According to legend, two Māori chiefs, fleeing the lake under the cover of darkness, were caught by the rising sun and transformed into the two rock pillars that now mark the entrance to the Lindis Pass.