Tekapo’s Peninsula Walkway offers the nearby and much more popular Mount John Walkway serious competition for scenery—albeit without the climb or crowds.
This gentle and mostly flat 90-minute loop is positively stunning under the bright Mackenzie sun. Leave the carpark and head off through wispy tussock. At the fork veer left and head over the spur. Soon, cool Lake Tekapo appears before you. The dark, unforgiving peaks of Hells Gates rise like ramparts above the shady Cass Valley—a stark contrast to the golden scene in front.
Follow the markers east around the lakeshore. The craggy summits of the Godley Valley lie at the head of the lake. The bare, broad flanks of the Two Thumb Range rise equally impressively beyond the eastern shore. Motuariki Island appears as a dark emerald surrounded by turquoise. Rosehip bushes adorn the otherwise scrubby landscape, while fat rabbits bounce merrily to and fro. It’s an artist’s dream—a place of sparkling light and colour.
A short but steep climb leads up a spur to a rock cairn on the highest point. This is a spectacular spot for appreciating the expansive high country around you—make the most of it. The return journey continues south towards the carpark. Enjoy the beautiful but less-appreciated views towards Lake Tekapo village with the long north ridge of Mount John rising from the lake. This alone is an interesting perspective that makes this easy walk worthwhile.
Need to know
Drive to the carpark, about 10 minutes from Lake Tekapo village up Godley Peaks Road.
Easy—1.5 hours return (5.3km return). Highest point is 790m and total ascent is around 100m.
NZ Topo 50: BY 17 Lake Tekapo