Translated in Maori as 'teka' sleeping mat and 'po' night.
Tekapo was originally a rest stop Enrique to My Cook and Otago. Lake Tekapo became a 'hydro-town' in the late 1940s when the canals and dams of the Waitaki River were commissioned. Now Lake Twkapo has a permanent population of 318 it is a popular destination for travellers.

The turquoise colour of the lake is created by 'rock flour'. The glaciers in the headwaters of Tekapo grind rock into fine dust on their journey towards the lake. This 'rock flour' is suspended in the water and when combined with sunlight created the unique watercolour.

One of the main sights in Tekapo is The Church of the Good Shepherd that was built in 1935 to the glory of God and in memory of the pioneers of the Mackenzie Country. Alongside the Sheep Dog Statue was built as a tribute to the collie dog, without the help of which the grazing of this mountain country would be impossible.

Another attraction that draws in many visitors to Tekapo is that the area is part of the international dark sky reserve. Lake Telapo has one of the worlds clearest, darkest and most spectacular night skies. The night we were staying we were given weather warnings because of the strong winds so we weren't able to appreciate the stars. But I have heard that Fiji too is a great spot to stargaze!