Ahh… Tekapo. The South Island’s very own cosy little village, beholding a combination of majestic mountain scenery and deep blue glacial water. Simply legendary, the dramatic landscapes of snow-dusted peaks and natural wonders mimic an oasis – we’re really not kidding! Tekapo truly is a whimsical town you need to see in the flesh to believe it’s beauty and one we’ve had on our bucket list for as long as we can remember.
Appreciate the world-renowned Church of the Good Shepherd against the incredible backdrop of the Southern Alps, admire the blossoming lake-side lupins or star-gaze in the night sky reserve. Tekapo truly proves itself as one of our country’s top towns with an abundance of activities to offer.
Whether it’s the prime alpine adventures of the snowy winter months that entice your travels or the bounteous leg-stretching strolls throughout the hills during summer, a trip to Tekapo will see your day-time itinerary jam-packed, leaving you craving nothing but a warm and homely place to recoup.
We’ve teamed up with Discover Tekapo Accommodation to share with you the very best dog friendly stays this picturesque town has on offer. Whether you’re looking for a classic kiwi bach, a cosy studio for two or a house to easily fit two families (and their fur children), we can guarantee Discover Tekapo has something to suit your style. With all of the comforts and none of the worries, sit back, relax and enjoy your escape in a home away from home.
Ready to explore? Check out our whopping list of 16 homes that welcome humans and dogs alike. All the owners ask is that the fur kids are on their best behaviour and a one-off fee of $20 applies. And don’t forget – Tekapo even beholds a fully fenced dog park in the regional park off Lilybank Road – the perfect place for an afternoon of zoomies or early sunrise run. Happy holiday home shopping!
Araki
Boasting four bedrooms, two bathrooms, two living areas and a double car garage, Araki stands strong as an older ‘kiwi bach’. With a few years of experience comes double the character and more personality than a house can handle – something only photos can hint at. Set in the heart of Tekapo and within easy walking distance of the lakefront, shops and local cafes, Araki is the place to be for a dog friendly stay in one of the sweetest snow huts we’ve ever seen!
Bedrock
If you’re looking for the perfect family holiday spot, we’re 99% sure we’ve found the place for you. An older, large house sleeping 12 with two bathrooms, this two-storey, sunny house features a log burner to keep you cosy, a heat pump for the warmer days and a large outdoor, grassed area to allow the little ones to play (four-legged kind included). If you’ve got a big family trip on the cards this winter (or summer, if you can wait that long), be sure to book Bedrock! Just don’t forget the T-sauce and sausages for a classic bbq dinner overlooking the rugged mountain skyline!
Beech Cottage
Alongside Lake Tekapo, situated a short five-minute walk from the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd sits this quaint and quiet dwelling, otherwise known as Tekapo’s Beech Cottage. Found at the end of a long drive, this dog friendly stay offers maximum privacy and minimum disruption, whilst still providing stunning views of the turquoise blue water of Lake Tekapo. Bask in the homeliness of Beech Cottage with a cuppa’ tea in one hand and furry friend under the other. And if a quick stroll outside tickles your fancy, head down to the shoreline of the lake before letting the fresh glacial water of Lake Tekapo lap at your feet.
Castle Hall
One night in the stunning Castle Hall holiday home and you’ll never want to leave. Built for the sun and producing spectacular views of the lake and mountain, Castle Hall is a spacious, light and perfectly equipped holiday home for a group of up to eight. Conveniently nestled at the base of Cowan Hill Reserve, leash up your pup, tie your laces and simply head out the back door to embark on this picturesque and totally dog friendly adventure. Just remember to sneak a peak of the stars at night from the front deck, we can guarantee these sparkling balls of fire will take your breath away!
Connemara
Located on a quiet street, just a short 10-minute walk from the village, Connemara Retreat with its quirky design and bright blue door is a dog friendly destination you don’t want to miss! Basking in the heat of the sun’s rays throughout the day and kept cosy and warm at night, book a stay for any season, knowing you’ll be well equipped with whatever the weather throws your way. Make use of the generous kitchen facilities or take a night off and experience one of the many village restaurants because after all, what better way to truly explore the town than testing out the culinary delights of the local cuisine?!
Hazel’s House
For the chance to spend some quality time in the beautiful alpine village of Tekapo, look no further than booking a few days away at Hazel’s House. Use this dog friendly stay as a warm and spacious place to relax in after a full day of exploring the village, lake and mountain terrain. And after a few hours in the bitter crispness of the slopes, be sure to treat your toes to the natural warmth and comfort of New Zealand wool carpet. How’s that for recycled insulation!? With a heated drying cupboard specifically for ski boots and snow gear, dry it out and warm it up before doing it all over again the next day. Hazel’s House truly is a skier’s dog friendly dream!
Kaltech House
Sitting in the heart of the Tekapo village, Kaltech House boasts a spacious deck, sunny living area, six beds, two bathrooms, and three toilets, not to mention you’re just a short walk away from the stunning shoreline of Lake Tekapo. Make use of the family-sized kitchen, well-equipped to whip up the sauciest spaghetti or fluffiest pancakes before taking a seat on the deck at the outdoor dining table provided for serene, scenic views. And if that’s not enticing enough, Kaltech House is one of the few fully fenced properties, allowing your dog ultimate lawn space for zoomies until their heart’s content!
Kentmere Cottage
How close is too close to Lake Tekapo’s shoreline? At Kentmere Cottage, all it takes is a short stroll down your driveway until you’re stopped in awe of your stunning surroundings, fresh glacier water lapping at your feet. Kentmere Cottage, with a stunning architectural interior, spacious black kitchen and beautifully designed modern bathroom, is one of our fave dog friendly destinations for a stay in the South. The well-equipped cottage features an open plan living area attracting the sun throughout the day, three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a beautifully secluded outdoor bathtub – score! Soak in the warmth beneath the night-sky and star-gaze till your heart’s content before flowing back indoors for a glass of red around the roaring fireplace – what’s not to love?!
Lake House
Admire 180 degree, uninterrupted views from the Southern Alps and Mt John right through to Lake Tekapo and Mt Edward in the awe-inspiring Lake House holiday home. Fitted with enough beds for eight guests and equipped with three bathrooms, a two-car garage and best of all, a bright and light modern kitchen, this dog friendly stay is sure to appeal to a big crowd. Spacious and warm, enjoy outdoor dining and a garden full of blossoms during the hot summer months whilst admiring the view of snow-capped mountains and clear blue skies throughout the cooler winter period. An absolute treat!
Lake Watch
If it’s a modern, spacious, family-friendly holiday home you’re after, then look no further than Lake Watch! Open your curtains to the morning light and admire the stillness of Lake Tekapo from under the covers, in the comfort of your bed. As lunchtime rolls around, enjoy a relaxing BBQ on the deck whilst the iconic, snow-capped mountain range engulfs you before watching the sun go down as day turns to night. Light the log fire, let it roar and head to bed to do it all over again the next day and the next and the next. Lake Watch is one of Tekapo’s truly remarkable holiday homes that once you step foot in, you won’t want to leave!
Lilybank Cottage
The perfect little getaway for couples and their pup, this warm and cosy modern cottage is set on a peaceful spot, down a driveway and opposite the lake (literally). Walk the short few minutes one way and you’ll be basking in the glory of the Church of the Good Shepherd, or a few minutes the other and you’ll find yourself exploring the village centre. With everything you could possibly need for a short break away, Lilybank Cottage offers easy cooking and dining options in the modern kitchen area, a warming log burner in the cosy living areas and outdoor seating on the deck, allowing for long nights spent star-gazing under the night sky. A truly memorable experience for you and your canine companion!
Loch View
Savour your time in Tekapo with a stay at the spectacular Loch View holiday home. This modern, four, double-bedroom dwelling boasts indoor/outdoor living with the completion of large doors opening to a sun-drenched deck and patio furniture. Bring your pup along for a holiday here at this home away from home and we can guarantee, you’ll never want to leave! Only a short 15-minute walk to the village centre and shoreline of Lake Tekapo, Loch View is the perfect place to pick for those travelling with friends, children and family (four-legged kind included).
Number 8
Positioned high above the depths of Lake Tekapo, Number 8 allows it’s guests to soak in panoramic views of snow-capped mountain tops and pine tree laden ranges. Bask in the natural serenity of Tekapo in this perfectly dog friendly holiday home throughout the day and into the star-filled night. Make use of the open plan lounge, dining and kitchen area with outdoor seating overlooking the stunning stillness of the blue glacial water of Lake Tekapo whilst your furry friend snuggles up in the wine-barrel dog bed provided – boujee, right? Number 8 is one home away from home you won’t want to leave!
Serendipity
Travelling Tekapo in winter? If you’re yet to experience a snow-laden South Island, trust us when we say, it is a must. And we can guarantee, Serendipity may just be the sweetest place to see it! Fantastic for a family or group, this holiday home sleeps up to ten, features two bathrooms and a modern living space. Bask in the heat of the sun-drenched deck throughout summer and admire the thick layer of snow atop neighbouring houses and mountain peaks in winter. Book your stay now and enjoy the stunning alpine views at Serendipity this winter.
Takapo Retreat
Luxurious, private, serene. What’s not to love about the Takapo Retreat? Elevated high above the village, this stone-walled home offers a unique experience to those looking for something special. With stunning panoramic views of Lake Tekapo, the surrounding mountain ranges and the area’s renowned night sky, Takapo Retreat is one dog friendly stay you don’t want to miss. Boasting a selection of three outdoor living spaces as well as modern and oh, so chic indoor lounges, take your pick of where to put your feet up, pour a red and admire the truly stunning architecture in all its glory. And if you’re feeling up to braving the bitter crispness of Tekapo on a bluebird day, dip into the outdoor swimming pool or soak in the luxurious spa (that’s one way to admire the stunning lake views or a star-laden night, right?)
The Red Nest
The Red Nest – A red shed perfect for a couple and their pup, this sweet holiday home may be small, but it certainly boasts everything that a big house has, and more! Relax and enjoy the spectacular alpine views from the living room or curl up with a book on cooler days, staying warm and toasty with the ease of a heat pump. At first glance, this quirky red shed may seem like just that, but upon a quick tour of the dwelling, you will find a fully-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, small oven, cooktop and microwave. And if it’s a solo escape you’re after, we can guarantee The Red Nest is the place to be (with your pup, of course!).
So there you have it! Not one, not two, but 16 holiday homes set in the stunning town of Tekapo. Nothing but picturesque by day and dazzling by night, Tekapo and it’s jagged skyline of mountainous drama, turquoise coloured lakes and noble history is one South Island destination to visit this winter. Stop in for a night or stay for 10 and better yet, bring your pup along for the ride. Because after all, there truly is nothing worse than leaving your beloved furry friend behind when setting off on an island escape – and we don’t mean Fiji, the South Island, that is.
For more information or to book your stay with Discover Tekapo, head to their website here.
