Reviews of University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory. (University) in Christchurch (Canterbury).
University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory
Tekapo 7999, New Zealand
Description
Information of University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory, University in Christchurch (Canterbury)
Here you can see the location, open hours, popular times, contact, photos and real reviews done by the users.
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Map
Open hours of University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory
Sunday
10:30am–2:30pm
Monday
10:30am–2:30pm
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
10:30am–2:30pm
Friday
10:30am–2:30pm
Saturday
10:30am–2:30pm
Popular times
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Reviews of University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory
R.Loved it ..great Night Sky experience, 😀Bus driver was amazing he had a laughing with his information that alone was worth the trip❤️Then we went up the next day on our own what a beautiful view 🐝🌻
J.I initially wasn't going to bother visiting, initially thinking the $8 road user fee was a lot to simply drive up a road! But I ultimately decided to, and am very glad I did...the views of the lakes and mountain ranges are absolutely stunning and amongst the very best on offer in the South Island (if not New Zealand). Almost quite surreal. Now I can see why they charge, it is definitely worth the money! Definitely recommend a visit.
B.Do not go here without calling this number. Sometimes if they are close to if they don’t have staff. It’s best place to visit when you are visiting lake tekapo. Normally 50 to 100 cars returns back from the check post if they close early, this people don’t understand the feeling of visitors for not allowing them to go at mt John.
p.We were lucky enough to have clear sky's and a half moon on our 11pm summit experience tour .We were taken by bus from the dark sky base in tekapo township to the top of Mt John where we disembarked .We were escorted to an outside area beside one of the domes where we were treated to an entertaining half hour briefing before we were permitted to look through both a 9inch and a 16 inch telescope at a number of various constellations . The guides were incredibly knowledgeable . Don't expect to see planets or stars in any sort of detail as it just doesn't work that way . It's freezing cold standing outside for the hour so wrap up warm. Glad we did it but probably won't need to go again
K.Glorious panoramic views over Tekapo and beyond. Eftpos or credit card only for $8 entry to drive to the top. You can walk the track for free, approx 45 minutes. Didn't go into cafe but was told no hot drinks available so grab a coffee to go from the township
J.Highly recommend!
Enjoy your favourite coffee while you take in the beautiful 360 views... Truly beautiful landscape.
K.This was Simply Spectacular and had the cage been open 🌈 that would have been coffee heaven 😇. We pushed out bikes UP the 475.m ascent Soo the descent was off the planet🧐🚴🚴👍.
Great ride back to Tekapo Springs 🌈🚴👍😎
M.Well worth the $8 toll to the top. The views are amazing. If you are a photographer some excellent sites.
F.Amazing view from top of this mountain - Mt John
You can have a breathtaking 360 degree view up there.
It is totally different from the lakeside view from Lake Tekapo beach.
Recommend to have your coffee from the Cafe on the top.
I told my friend it may be the best coffee in NZ. Because you can have a cup of nice coffee with the super beautiful view that you normally don't get from most places in the world
B.Be careful you need to pay to take the road taking you to the top but I think it's worth it. Some really cool views at the top with a nice cafe. Few nice walks starting from the top. You can even do a big loop (going down to the lake, alongside the lake and back in the forest).
F.Amazing view from top of this mountain - Mt John
You can have a breathtaking 360 degree view up there.
It is totally different from the lakeside view from Lake Tekapo beach. …
A.Amazing to sights. Good explanations of the stars and constellations etc
G.Fantastic experience especially using observatory class telescopes
B.Be careful you need to pay to take the road taking you to the top but I think it's worth it. Some really cool views at the top with a nice cafe. Few nice walks starting from the top. You can even do a big loop (going down to the lake, alongside the lake and back in the forest).
I.Great view up there. And an awsome spot to watch the sunset.
C.We only went to the cafe, but the views are excellent. Cafe was
good, too. Be prepared to pay to drive up the road.
E.Stunning 360 views with snow capped mountains and the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo in the background. Gorgeous vistas await you as you climb the relatively steep incline up to the 3000+ ft Peak. Cafe at top serves coffe cake & some sandwiches.
L.The observatory offers 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. You can hike up to the top or drive (for a fee). Great place for photography.
G.A really good tour of the night sky. The dark skies of Tekapo are brilliant for revealing the true beauty of the stars and faint fuzzies.
The time up there was magic but goes so quickly. The tour guides really know their stuff and are very informative. If you're interested in the night sky, you'll love it.
Photo not taken at the observatory but lakeside.
G.I have been there in 2018, and one of the best place in New Zealand with the stunning view.
A.This is a great place to visit for a number of reasons. And I'm talking about in the day, not the night as we didn't visit in the dark.
1) the walk from the car park (the path starts to the left of the springs, so just park anywhere around there) to the observatory is a great leg stretcher and not too tricky. It'll take you about 45 minutes to an hour to get to the top as you wind through amazingly scented pine trees, then you can do a loop around the summit.
2) the panoramic views from the top are worth seeing. You'll see the plains towards Mt. Cook, mountains everywhere, and Lake Tekapo from above.
3) the café at the top is actually really nice. The coffee was, as I came to expect from NZ, very, very good, and there seemed to be a good selection of food too for those who want lunch.
One other thing: you are able to drive to the top, but there's a fee of something like €8. If I were you, I'd take the walk though as it's not too difficult for people with decent fitness and the summit is a nicer place without cars cramming it up.
Enjoy!
J.Great place with amazing panoramic views over Lakes Tekapo, Alezandrina and Pukaki. If you lucky enough you can see Mount Cook in a far distance in a good weather condition. Book a night tour in advance if you really interested.
A.Excellent views, good road but felt the area lacked the public info and facilities a unique area like this deserves, the $8.00 road toll was a bit of a surprise, nice little cafe, enjoyed the experience
D.Excellent place to visit! Sadly it was very cloudy, but even cloudy it looks amazing! Great place to have the best view (totally worth it 8 dls fee to access in vehicle) A must in the South island for sure in NZ!
g.Easy and nice walk up and one of the greatest view. The endless rusty coloured MacKenzie plains are breathtaking. Crazy contrast with the bright blue tekapo lake
P.As a student of physics department in University of Canterbury, I heard alot about Mt John observatory. And it's true. It is awesome place to know about astronomy and stars. The place is situated on Mt. John. Entry fee is free for UC students. There is cafe called astro cafe. Great place to have food and coffee. The view of lake tekpo and mountain with snow is mind blowing. Perfect picture taken place. The place is too much windy. If you are going takpo than visit this place for great viewing.
R.Stunning views from the top! It cost $8.00 to go up the top per vehicle but totally worth it! The Astro Cafe up the top have really nice Hot Blackcurrant drink!
C.Stunning views over Lake Tekapo & Lake Alexandrina. Every time we visit we find it awesome. It's a shame though what was a free activity during the day, started to charge. Started at $5 for your car & this last visit it was $8. Perhaps if you're able it's best to walk up the other side!
B.Beautiful spot to see Tekapo lake and city! You need to pay for entrance fee with car though it is worth visiting.
M.A wonderful view of the surrounding mountains and a nice place for lunch. I would like to have had the time to see the stars at night. The vehicle line up at the main was only a 15 minute wait and well worth it would recommend a visit if you are passing through the area.
S.😍🤯😱
Mind = blown!
After spending half a day down at Lake Takepo, we decided to take a drive up to the observatory. While it cost $8 to drive up, it was negligible considering the view that beheld us. Epic views of the alpines and the lake all around. There is even a little cafe up there to sit in and enjoy the view. There is a rock a few hundred feet from the cafe fringe which you can take gorgeous pics as the ones attached but be mindful of your step. Must do!!
J.Great views form up here! Definitely worth paying the road user charge to get up there. There's a cafe at the top that's a bit pricier than you may expect, but delicious food all the same.
z.Good place for Lake Tekapo top view. If you drive here, there is an entrance fee. There is a cafe at the top.
R.We hiked up St John's from the Takepo Spring which was a lovely walk and not that busy. Definitely walk the circuit if you have time.
M.Amazing views of the whole area. There is a short walk around the observatory that provides some great photo opportunities. The cafe on the top is really nice too. It costs $8.00 to access the road that takes you to the top where there is a car park.
R.Such great views! Warning, the lot gets full and you don't know until it's too late. You are in the line without any option of turning around. You're only allowed up once a car comes down.
K.The views are good, but it is WINDY, and now at $8 to use the road. You cannot go in the buildings, other than the cafe which is expensive food and drinks.
B.Stunning view of Lake Tekapo, though u need to pay nzd 8 for the road fee. An must-go viewing point to visit if u stay in Tekapo area.
F.Absolutely stunning views!! It's $8 to go up, which I wasn't aware of but didn't mind because the sights are glorious! They're is a lavatory and cafe. The cafe staff were friendly and the coffee I had was great, even had a Saturn pattern. I didn't try any food but it smell wonderful. You can see the tip of Aoraki if you know what you're looking for and the overall views are breathtaking ! If you want to see the sunset, the close the carpark at some point as it's private property, but you can walk up the trek to view the sunset 😁
D.Went there for breakfast at the cafe. They have very good pies. I had the steak pie while my wife had the pork belly pie. Simply awesome
W.Even if you are not joining the famous observatory tour on Mt John, a day trip to the top of Mt John gives you a splendid view of its surrounding, especially the beautiful Lake Tekapo. To drive up, you need to pay $8 through a guarded gate. Hiking up from Lake Tekapo is also another option. Definitely a good place to visit and walk around to take in the view on a good sunny day.
G.We took an early hike up Mt John for the views and breakfast at the Astro Cafe.
Our effort was well rewarded with stunning panoramic views and hearty breakfast.
H.We walked up to the observatory on a warm clear day and the views were outstanding in every direction. If you have a day at Lake Takepo, definitely worth the forest walk up. Cafe is not bad either. Quick note that there's no need to come up here for stargazing - can obtain fantastic starscapes from lakeside or driving a little way out of town and finding a layby to stop in. Regardless, well worth the hike
S.LOVED Mt John Observatory.
Was recommended we visit it by a friend and are so glad we did.
Absolutely worth the few $ they charge for entry up the mountain.
The views are breathtaking.
Don’t miss this!
C.We only went to the cafe, but the views are excellent. Cafe was
good, too. Be prepared to pay to drive up the road.
T.Hell of a view. Definitely worth driving up there and paying $8. Grab a coffee at the top, and enjoy the lake.
W.This place gives you an amazing view of Lake Tekapo. On a clear day, enjoy the refreshments from the cafe and sit out to take in what nature has to provide to you.
You can take a stroll around the observatory for a short hike and see the mountains and lake from different angles.
Sitting up top gives you a sense of serenity and a great place to reflect and mediatate a bit.
B.I unfortunately didn't have time to visit the observatory itself, but I can only imagine how great it is. This review is for the sky. I'm from a small town in Canada with very little light pollution so I've always been blessed with a beautiful night sky. However, being in a dark sky reserve is a completely different deal. Wow, just wow. This is something everyone should experience.
Try and make at least one stop on a clear, moonless night and prepare to be blown away.
D.Incredible place, a must if you’re spending some time in the South Island. You have to pay a fee to visit the area but you can drive up to the top and there’s a nice little coffee place where you can eat/drink something while enjoying the breathtaking view.
N.This is quite a popular spot, even in winter, so expect it to be busy.
The views are unparalleled. The drive is steep and windy so do be careful, but the views waiting for you at the top are totally worth it. It costs $8 to drive up, or one can hike up the trails from lake Tekapo. There is a little cafe at the top with a few seats inside, but these were all full on our visit. Wrap up and enjoy the amazing 360 views!
T.Amazing walk up to the top but if you don't fancy walk you can drive up, there is an amazing cafe once you get to the top, just a little chilly you know. Super crisp air and would 100% do it again.
W.Very nice views, but it is a pity that the observatory is open only between 9 and 5. Other then that it is a really great experience and a beautiful spot to watch the sunrise and sunset.
S.This has to be one of the most fascinating things I have done. We had a cloudless night so extra lucky. The tour guide was very engaging & most interesting to listen to. I would absolutely recommend this. We also visited during the day & the views are stunning. Dress very warmly. They supply a goose down coat but you need to be really warm before you put the goose down coat on.
R.Medium walk to the top, or you can drive.
Views are just beautiful.
S.What a way to spend a birthday, gazing at, and learning about the stars. Fantastic experience with knowledge and friendly tour guides.
j.With a very small amount of money you can enjoy a grear scene. The mountain road is nice too. The view from above is breahtaking
d.Fantastic views all around....worth a visit.
B.Amazing 360 views from up here. I recommend doing the long hike to get here because you get to see the mountain ranges from all angles. Please only use the defined tracks so we can preserve this natural beauty for generations to come.
A.Astonishing view from the top of the mountain. If you visit lake Tekapo you must see it from the top.. the view is just breathtaking. You have to pay $8 fee to access the the observatory which is nothing compared to the view.
G.I have been there in 2018, and one of the best place in New Zealand with the stunning view.
V.Had a wonderful experience star gazing here. It is a must do! The view during the day is pretty good too with the panaromic view of lake Alexandrina and lake Tekapo.
D.Pretty good place for a short hike ! Amazing view of the valley, Tekapo lake and town
Z.Awesome view.
Get $8 ready to go up. A must place to stop and view.
W.Nice view 360 panoramic view over the lake. Too bad the cafe was closed.
I.Great view up there. And an awsome spot to watch the sunset.
M.Awe inspiring view can be seen at the summit. Three ways to get to the peak through walking along the lake, following the main walking track beside Tekapo Spring resort or use your car to reach the top. It’s more worthwhile visit if you walk as you will see scenic views along the way. Look out for the golden fields of tussock, the majestic emerald green Tekapo Lake and patches of snow along the track.
J.Fantastic views. Be aware there is a $8 road toll.
S.Outstanding views.. $8/car to get up there but that is cheap for the view..
H.Great views. Low cloud coverage. But still able to take photos. Not many people up here. Peaceful and calm.
S.Great views of Tekapo, worth the journey by foot or car. Shame the cafe was closed at the time.
L.A fantastic view point, specially after a long walk up the hill before sunrise, and on a clear day the sky is a bright orange behind the ranges in the background. The cafe was very nice too.
J.It was a lovely day of lake viewing but not star gazing. I think a lot depends on the weather and on this day, it happened to be cloudy. Admission fee was NZ$8 per vehicle. Nice photo opportunity. #J2ACE
R.Amazing views of Lake Tekapo, absolutely stunning place. Nice walk up the mountain too.
M.Highlight of my trip to Lake Tekapo. Yes, it's a private road and you must pay before driving up there. Absolutely worth.
B.Amazing view of Lake Tekapo and the town from on top. $8 charge per car. Windy so bring along your neck warmer and gloves.
L.The view is fantastic and you can enjoy the coffee at the same time.
P.A terrific (cold) evening spent on a Twilight Tour of the observatory and it's telescopes was made perfect by our hugely knowledgeable guide Holly. Her enthusiasm for for topic and career in astronomy is infectious and it was wonderful that she took the time to address individual questions she must have heard a thousand times. The Dark Skies project based at the observatory offers a number of different tours; highly recommended!
W.It’s a amazing place , you can see the wonderful sea cloud over the mountains
K.The road to the top only opens when the Astro Cafe is open (only during the day). The entrance fee per vehicle is NZ$8 (not NZ$5 anymore). Worth the drive especially when the weather is cold.
M.Great view up the hill. We can see Lake Takepo from a high point and view Mount Cook and the other mountains in distance. It worths the $8 entrance fee per car. It closes at 5:30pm (and cars can't go in afterwards) and we arrived at 5pm, so we only had limited time there.
P.Review for the coffee place : very very good place for coffee. The longer hike down is way better! The carrot cake was also great.
D.Walked up from Tekapo campsite. Great cafe, cold drinks and ice cream, views are just extreme. Disappointed with high cost of road access, daytime and nighttime tours. Shame its got so commercial!
G.Fantastic experience especially using observatory class telescopes
D.Picture paints a thousand words. The view is spectacular, driving up comes with a small fee of $8 and the Astro cafe is a must try on top.
R.Amazing hike. Views were awesome with a nice cafe at the top too.
R.Great mountain top view of Lake Tekapo. There is a cafe there and they also have good coffee.
J.Must check in this place when you at lake Tekapo, excellent beautiful stunning view to look at the lake
D.Brilliant views from the top! Sadly restaurant was closed. You pay a small fee per vehicle to drive to the top.
W.You have to pay an 8 dollar road toll to get up but it really has an incredible view of lake tekapo
E.It’s a great place to see Lake Tekapo.
But 8 dollars are needed to be paid to get here
and the road is narrow
R.Fantastic views of the Tekapo area, gives a really good perspective of the surrounding land features. Pity the road up is only open from 9am to 2:30pm Thurs to Sunday and cost $8 to use the road. Of course you can walk up from the ice rink for free anytime.
b.Fantastic view. $8 to access the road to the observatory. Didn't make it to the restaurant but seemed like a fun place. Definitely worth the stop.
C.It's not only worth visiting in the night. The vegan sandwich is a hit
S.Gorgeous view, very nice people and good cafe
N.Likely one of the best vantage points I've ever experienced in my lifetime. We weren't going to make the trip as it was almost closing, but we are so incredibly glad we did. The view of Lake Tekapo was absolutely stunning!
Stop here -- it will be high point of your travels!
r.The most picturesque views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding area, must visit.
n.Nice view from the top and has a cafe there too and not a hard walk up
R.A must visit place. When the sky is clear, you can really see the milky way and stars here. The staffs here are very friendly and they explained everything so detail but simply to understand.
D.Great place to visit. 360 degree views of surrounding mountains, lake Tekapo and other lakes.
P.Some nice views available from the top of the mountain and there is a cafe as well so you can refresh your self after the hike.
G.Only visited the cafe at the top of the mountain but well worth the walk, though you can drive if you wish. Fantastic views
E.A must do place if you are near Lake Takapo. Great view! On cloud 9! Gate closes at 5pm
T.Amazing view. U can basically see 360 of view all around u. Highly recommended
B.Cafe was closed, still drive up, great day, clear sky. 👍
M.Epic view. I only went up at day time, so can't say for evening night shots. 8$ per car or you can walk up. Walking carpark is a little bit further around that the road up
A.Brilliant Station and wonderful and eye opening program. Wonderful views around Lake Tekapo
C.Totally stunning and beautiful place, a must visit
A.Amazing to sights. Good explanations of the stars and constellations etc
M.Stunning views. Worth the time and drive.
D.An experience you should not miss if you are around Lake Tekapo..
The observatory is doing some ground breaking job on micro lensing, and the stuff is very happy to explain and show us the results.
A must do!!!!
C.Steep mtb ride up, but amazing views when you get to the top. Well worth the effort!
A.Very scenic and windy mountain with great views.
A.Amazing views and a nice café on top of the mountain.
D.Twilight experience is magic. Informative and fun with enough science to please geeks and enough entertainment for everybody. Telescopes there are good enough to see jupiters moons and the rings of saturn at twilight. Wonderful!
T.Stunning place. Well worth a visit both at night and during the day. There is a small cafe if you feel like some warmth and a break.
J.Awesome views of the lake and surrounding mountains, great coffee and environment.
S.Amazing views, all around from the top of Mount John, and the face had good food and good coffee
F.Absolutely stunning place. It oversees mountain ranges with snow caps. And it offers guided constallation show.
D.Good views of the blue lake. $8 to drive up. Cafe at the top
J.Beautiful views of the lake and surrounding area. Nice climb with clear path and markers.
T.Visited here during level 2 lockdown, it was a shame the cafe wasn’t open. Views amazing.
C.Beautiful scenic walk. Quite steep at certain areas but great for moderate walkers.
P.Amazing pano view above lake Tekapo.
b.We didn't do alot up here but the day was windless and clear. Great views over the valley and if my 4wd had started it would have been good. Thanks to James from Fulton Hogan for helping get my vehicle going again.
R.Great place to visit with spectacular views . The $8.00 charge for using the road was a surprise. Maybe that bit of information is somewhere else.
A.Gives you a different view of Lake Tekapo. And provides you a 360 view. At day time, you can either chill at the cafe and sip or nibble with a view or either go for a,walk as there are a couple of tracks from the top.
Road access is $8 / car.
At night I believe the night sky will blow your mind with the milky way. So I would suggest going with the tour to observe them.
C.Beautiful view over lake tekapo. Unfortunately it's closing in the evenig and it isn't allowed to access the hill during the night.
E.8 NZD to take the road to the top but then you can have a cup of coffee with one of the best views ever
R.Stellar views of Tekapo and Mount Cook! Definitely worth the drive (or the hike!)
S.Gr8 veiw nothing open but took packed lunch was worth it!!
S.Great views provided it good weather
C.You can enjoy hot chocolate with milkly blue lake.
J.Great views from the top. Easy hike up and down in less than 2hrs.
K.Good for view, and you need to pay 8 dollars road using fee
J.Incredible views. Well worth the entry cost. It can be very windy so be prepared! Also the cafe might be closed to check the signs first if you are going for food.
B.Food is so-so, but the location is unique! Be careful when driving upslope, road could be narrow.
S.Excellent views, with a small cafe with great food and coffee, very popular with the tourist. $8 to drive to the top, or you can walk up for free. either way the attraction is the view. best seen on a nice sunny day. thumbs up if this post helps you or you like the photos or views
V.360 breath taking views. Amazing place. Charge $8 per car to enter. Opens at 9am and close at 5pm. Cafe available on top. Cannot enter at night time unless you book a very expensive stargazing tour.
A.Long climb to get there on foot.... takes about an hour, but the views are stunning!! There is a cafe at the top but it closes at 6pm in the summer. Gets busy in the morning. You can go up by vehicle, steep climb but camper vans allowed unless it's too windy. Definitely worth a visit
C.It was really windy but it was a good tramp up from Tekapo Hot Spring
N.One of the places you can enjoy all year round and day and night..there is a $8 entry fee per vehicle and once u get toy he top u get greeted by the stunning view of the southern Alps..magnificient
M.Great views, stay away if windy, $8 NZ entry by car
S.Lovely place, love the view from up there. Xou have three options to go up: Lakeside walk, walk through the forest or take the car (8$ per Car). Beautiful view, especially in the afternoon!
S.Take the long walk up to MT John. Once on top you'll be rewarded with spectecular views
N.Nice View and walking trails. Easy to enter!!!
A.Wonderful place to visit during a cloud free day.
Coffee and food was very good and reasonably priced. Place is NOT open after dark and you need to book ahead with your guide if you wish to attend after 5pm (or thereabouts)
R.The view is stunning! Now you need to pay a small fee ($5NZD)to go to the top but really worth it. What a beautiful lake and you will be surprised by the colour of the lake. Too beautiful to be true. I cannot believe my eyes when I first saw it. This is a must see when you on the South Island. I believe this is one of the most amazing lakes I have ever seen in my life. Enjoy.
F.Fantastic view! And coffee and cakes are not bad either.
D.The wife and I had a soak in the hot springs then hiked up to the summit. I am a little unfit these days but took it slow and steady it was a great walk and rewarded with great views. If you have the time and effort leave the car behind and walk up. Also the cafe is a very good reward when you get to the top.
F.Do yourself a favour and book a star gazing experience in NZ's largest dark sky reserve! We were lucky enough to have 100% clarity and were able to stars and nubula clearly.
K.Awesome night for viewing the stars and moon.
R.The view here is SO beautiful in the day. There is a cafe and you can take lots of nice photos here. At night, you can go stargazing with a group and they taught me lots of valuable knowledge!!!
S.Highly recommend to visit this place if you're visiting Lake Tekapo. The magnificent view really worth every moment we spent up there.
There's a cafe at the Observatory area. We were enjoying our coffee while admiring the scenery.
s.Well worth the $8 to drive up the hill & take in the view they have a nice cafe at the top so you can chill out with a nice beverage & just watch the world go by
M.A glorious view and beautiful morning
P.Fantastic location with unbeatable views across Lake Tekapo and beyond. The cafe is basic but has a good choice of snacks and drinks. The toilets need upgrading. Dont forget the $8 before you get into the park. I think this should probably be refunded if you spend over a certain amount of $ in the cafe but just a thought
M.Awesome view. Steep road up to the top, big campers are allowed but I doubt our campervan would have been able to start again from a dead stop if we had to let on coming traffic pass!
M.360 view of Lake Tekapo & surroundings. Chilling winds!
R.Absolutely gorgeous scenery. Take a quiet spot and absorb the environment. Spiritually refreshing. If you get the chance, then the University telescope is so much better than the public offering.
S.Terrific views from the top. We drove up as we were pushed for time. Lovely informative guy on the gate. Disappointingly ugly-looking cafe building at the top. Should be torn down and replaced with something more asthetically-suitable to the area. Seems to be indicative of what's happening to the scenically-beautiful Lake Tekapo area.
B.There is an entrance fee of $8 (when we went in April 2018) but definitely worth the fee when you get to the top. The cafe there isn't all that great but if you are looking for coffee and a slice of cake which is all that they really have then your lucky. Parking is good for cars and campervans on a gravel parking area. The place is just scattered with toursits all over the mountain so if you plan on photographing with less people in the background then I suggest going early. The view is spectacular, you can see in the distance all types of weather rolling in like rain clouds etc. Has to be seen to be believed.
J.5-star view! Road is a bit hairy as it's 1 lane in places - be prepared to pull over to let others past. Wouldn't recommend using a large vehicle for this reason. There is an $8 charge to go up the road. Good cafe at the top but be prepared to wait for a bit as it's very busy.
Y.This is a perfect spot looking at lake tekapo.
Y.Extraordinary view here!
Must come !
D.Visited on a cold windy day, wonderful views all around, pity the Cafe was closed. Need a cloudless night for next visit as we have heard the night sky is brilliant to see
A.There is a cost to go up the road, don't be put off by it. The views are spectacular and make you proud to be a kiwi. Science and scenery combine for breathtaking view. The cafe is pretty standard cabenet fare and coffees.
J.Didn’t know it costs $8 to get here by car. View from top is worth for that though. Cafe there is good. Price is reasonable and good staffs. You can hike to here.
E.A wide landscape. Bring your ultra wide lens with you!!!
T.Thank you Matt for helping us booking on the midnight tour. You and the two guides on the stargazing tour are great. We had great time with you guys. Cheers. Thien
J.Best spot to have a view on the lake and Mountain.
P.Great view, worth the 8$nz fee
K.The best view for teapot lake
C.This was a great walk. Layer up. It is windy when u start and can be very very windy at the top. But in the forest, walking uphill for about an hour, you will want to remove layers as u warm up from the exercise. The food at the Astro cafe at the top is actually very good - we had a lemon tart, cheese cake and cheese & garlic scone. And the bathrooms clean, as always. The view from the summit, of Lake Tekapo and the mountains, is reallt beautiful, plus you can say you climbed a mountain (it's calles Mt John, after all) in less than 2 hours (or more if you sit and eat and enjoy the view) A really great and relatively easy hike.
K.We booked a star gazing experience with Mt John Observatory in late December 2019. Unfortunately, the weather did not cooperate and was too cloudy to have any view of the night sky. The staff was very friendly and helpful. They gave us the option to take a planetarium/museum tour for a small $$ or take a full refund. We took the refund and walked back to our hotel. Upset we didn't get to see the night sky through their equipment, but nothing you can do about weather.
H.View is good but you can get this for free stop by on any view points on the highway. $8 per car charge on tall not worth plus you spent in cafe.
M.Cool facility. Great views in an ideal location away from city lights and other interference. Too bad it was cloudy today.
D.Nice place and view of Lake tekapo and all around is simply awesome.
J.The road to Mount John Observatory is closed without any notice or more info. The cafe is closed as well. This is in the month of November 2020, not sure how long it is going to be. However the maps and other info on internet says it's open. Only to go up there twice and disappoint yourselves.
J.While the views are splendid there are a few things I'm not happy about. There is now an 8$ charge per vehicle to go up to the observatory if you merely want to have a coffee... carpark is not being monitored. Tricky at times with all th3 campervans. Huge lines at the till. Could only see one person on shift. Not ideal. Place totally overrun in the summer months. A pity
C.People who wants to visit by car should pay a toll (NZD 5?). After passing narrow mountain path, you can see great view of Lake Tekapo. You can drink something at cafe.
R.Excellent views over Lake Tekapo. Be aware if you drive up there is a $8 private road usage fee. Otherwise you can walk up for free with the track starting next to Tekapo Springs.
E.Incredible experience. Our Finnish guide was both funny and unbelievably smart. We had such a good time in our warm arctic vests gazing at stars and into other galaxies.
T.No warning until you've driven 4 kms off the main road to the gatekeepers window that there's a $8 charge to drive up the road! Café is expensive! The views are great though.
T.Great views for a causal visit and the tour is awesome but the cafe is expensive. I don't see how you can justify 0.80c extra for a take away Cup.
A.Amazing views, great coffee. Just awesome
S.A nice lookout point, with a well maintained road up. Its a little windy, so caravans might have some trouble, but we did see a few up there.
Do note there is a $5 toll. But we found the view worth it.
D.Awesome view on a clear day, beware of crosswind when driving up, especially if you are driving a caravan. The road to the top is narrow so pay extra care.
A.One of the most amazing experiences of my life. Do go for the Summit Experience. It's at 2am. A little costly. But totally worth it. It's a must do at Tekapo. Try to go on a clear night to get the most out of it.
W.Great star observatory tour! Can get really chilly so do come prepared as advised by them!
A.Great place spent with informative people. Just make sure you rug up well as is very cold at this time of year on top of the hill. Coffee was welcomed.
J.I've never visited here at night but for stunning views of the Mackenzie in the day time, you can't beat it. And the cafe has Deneath Custard Squares.
It is a toll road but it's worth it.
S.Great experience
Well put together
M.Great spot for photos, nice cafe w good food and service, small-ish carpark but not a problem for camper vans, $10 entry fee per car to access the road up to the observatory.
P.We had a really interesting tour of the observatory. The guides explained their topic really well; and we had some amazing views of the milkyway galaxy, clearly visible to the naked eye.
J.Great views even if when we went it was raining and freezing. The entrance fee is slightly steep but the cafe has reasonably priced coffee and food.
J.Toll road but the panorama worth the money
Y.Quite a nice place to have a 360 deg view of the surrounding scenery, but not that spectacular though. Have a coffee and some warm bites at the cafe to top it off. Note the 8 buck entry fee.
S.The Mount John observatory has stunning views of the surrounding lakes and hills. We stayed at Lake Tekapo village and it was a short drive to the observatory. Well worth the visit if you have an hour or two.
S.What an amazing visit! Seeing the night sky was awesome, but the guides were so helpful in pointing out important objects and showing us what they looked like through a telescope. So worth it!!
P.Great sightseeing, loved it.
N.Great walk up the mountain with amazing views
A.Absolutely stunning view both daytimes and nighttimes, but bear in mind that you won't be able to stars at cloudy night so if you are planning to do some star gazing check the weather forecast
E.Didnt say at the entry of the walk by the hill access that the coffee place was closed and was really slippery with the icy snow but track on the lake side was super nice with an amazing view
N.Cafe is great! View is better!
W.Great surround view of Tekapo and others too of course. You can drive up here or hike, and there is a cafe at the top where you can get a drink and a snack.
A.Great easy hike with a beautiful view as a reward
J.A 10 minutes drive from Tekapo town, winding up hill road at the last 3-5 minutes. A must visit for the panoramic view of Lake Tekapo and Lake Alexandria, gorgeous scenery. Free visit during the day before 5pm, if not, you may choose to pay over NZD$100 for stars gazing at night.
Q.Great view of Lake Tekapo and town center
B.There is sadly nothing publically accessible up here except the cafe, $8 road entry fee (single lane). Fantastic views over the lake though! Wear sunscreen.
S.Tour guides were awesome, we all learnt a lot here.
C.45 minute hike, great view at the top! Today was very windy! Didn't order at the cafe, but the food looked good.
K.It was Awesome! Although it was only a 40% visibility im so glad we went. Wish there was a part for us amature photographers to give it a crack, but still had a fantastic night!
P.Awesome view and location!!!! Access track should be free for Student and past student of UC, should not have to pay. Cafe is far too over priced!!!!
H.Nice place, awesome view coffee shop. A lot of cool telescope. I heard their night tour are also super awesome but too bad it was all booked.
B.Pretty average that you have to pay to drive up the hill and take a look. Not sure it’s worth the cost
G.Stunning views great coffee. Downside is charge for vehicle to drive up. Was free last time. This will put some Kiwis off.
G.Great wall for all levels of fitness, just over an to the summit from Tekapo Springs. Brilliant views once above the pines.
S.Mind-blowing tour. They go out of their way to make sure that it is so much more than just "looking at the stars".
R.Amazing experience as drove is through a private road to the top of the hill and views of Lake Tekappo are WOW. Turquoise color lake looks magestic from the top.
G.Beautiful 360° views of the Mackenzie basin!
M.Go for the full tour, you won't be disappointed! We did the Twilight tour and it was amazing. Informative guides and an incredible dark sky
R.A reasonably steep 45-60 minute walk up but the views more than make up for it on a clear day. It's also where the astronomy tour comes during the night.
P.Great views of Lake Tekapo
m.Great views. Happy to pay $8 for road access to support the uni researchers. One day we will come at night.
P.There is a toll on the driveway, but it's privately owned. Forget that - relaxation plus at the top whilst having lunch and enjoying the view.
R.The view is amazing $8 to take your car up the hill opens later in the morning so not good for sunrise photographers
A.Great views didn't realise there was an $8 fee to drive up till we got to the gate.
V.Amazing views overlooking Lake tekapo and surrounding mountain ranges. Astro cafe currently closed.
S.When we visited it was a cold clear day so we had great views of the surrounding area. Not too sure its worth the $8 to go up there however.
T.Awesome view, unfortunately the cafe and observatory were closed
f.great view of lake Tekapo. just breathtaking. Although it costs $8 to get to the top of the hill it is definitely worth checking out
M.Did the more difficult way up. The view was worth it.
D.Fantastic views - Lonely Planet calls it the best view from a coffee shop in the world. Only complaint is that the cost of the night tours seems a bit high
W.Great views, easily accessible, it's the place to be when the sky is blue ! Good place to go at night as well for a stargazing tour, even though it's a bit expensive
沈.The view is great. But cost you $8 per car because it is private road.
J.Nice view
B.Looks interesting. A bit on the pricey side. But we will go and have a look sometime
S.Worth to drive up there during the day and there's a nice Cafe up there where you can have coffee and cakes while enjoying the beautiful view of the Lake Tekapo.
A.Stunning views from the top. The little Cafe is great too. Well worth the $8 entry fee.
K.Stunning View of Lake Tekapo and the city.
M.Home to the University of Canterbury Mount John Observatory, there are 6 telescopes including the country’s biggest which can observe 50 million stars each night. Considered New Zealand’s premier astronomical research centre, the observatory is operated by the University of Canterbury and has research astronomers from Japan, USA and Germany.
J.The 2hour hike path was worth it! Not too difficult and got to see the great view on the way up!
j.The dark sky project is a must see
F.Nice walking track
R.Great place for stargazing - if weather permits. Or for an adventurous drive to the astro cafe up top, in galeforce winds. ;)
B.Stunning 360° views, best in town for sure. There's a 8$ toll for the maintenance of the road that goes straight to the University so all cool
W.Stunning view to the lake
N.Beautiful scenery, cafe can get very busy and quite warm inside. Needs some shaded area outside.
T.On of the major attractions at Lake Tekapo is the observatory at the summit of Mount John. Regarded by some as one of the best stargazing sites on Earth, the Mt. John Observatory is home to the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve. Visitors can tour the facility either by day or by night with the night tour being the more well-renown
J.Only a daytime visit but the 360° view was incredible. Hope to go back soon for the night view
S.very cool experience!
M.Beautiful views, good selection of locally sourced drinks at a reasonable price. Definitely worth the hike
J.Spectacular 360 view, must see in Lake Tekapo.
B.The views catch your eye
J.Awesome stargazing experience! Special thanks to our tour guides with their amazing laser beams reaching the sky! Great job guys! Memorable! :)
P.great views, bring a book
C.Great view point to see the Tekapo. Every car needs entrance fee for 8 dollar per car.
D.Wouldn't say the night tour is value for money although interesting. Great place to visit on fine day with magnificent views.
G.Good space. Nice independent products. (posh kola, and Dr feelgood ice lollies) Partner was disappointed that they didn't have a gift shop.
J.A real asset to the district. Great views. We took visitors there recently, from Marlborough. They lived it.
S.We all loved the walk from the lake to the top, even with some snow on the ground. Amazing view!
L.Had a night tour. No clouds and no moon made a spectacular view. Quite expensive (150$), but for my opinion it's worth it!
O.I enjoyed the planetarium show. I think the age appropriate group would be 12-16, and families. It wasn't too busy when I was there.
J.Disappointed that weather let us down, but that gave us the chance to look around the telescopes, which would have been off limits otherwise. So really interesting, despite no stargazing
A.Great views. Definitely worth the $8 to drive up.
L.Nice cafe and view up the top
J.Probably the most amazing view in Lake Tekapo. Must go! Worth the 8 NZD toll fee.
K.Nice view and nice coffee shop out there! Cost 8 kiwi for the road fee.
R.Great view up there
N.Park really amazing. The climb was beautiful and the turquoise water that can be seen on some shots of views.
N.Wonderful view of Lake tekapo landscape up to the hill. I really enjoy having breakfast at the cafe.
S.Awesome experience to see the night sky so clear
B.Gra place to visit, lovely food and views at the cafe. You do have to pay to use the private road, but it's worth it
S.Simply mesmerising and one of the most humbling experiences. The guides were fantastic and bursting with their passion for stars. A must do, if one is in this part of the world.
F.This is a good midway stop when travelling between queenstown and lake tekapo. Food is good, salmon feeding is fun and is a good leg stretcher! Worth a stop
A.Drive up to the observatory to get an amazing view of Lake Tekapo. As you drive up to the observatory you would find on your left huge fields of lupins in December.
H.Cool place, though I think that the services are a bit steep. Also, it's a toll road or a hike up...
P.Very well organized, fascinating behind the scenes tour if theres too much cloud, very good tour guides. Highly recommend.
M.Beautiful view of the mountains and towns around. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.
J.Beautiful views, sadly have to oay to use the road but its well worth it :)
Y.Lovely place, nice carrot cake
A.I wish I will revisit this place … for night sky photography
R.Beautiful views from the top and a much needed top quality smoothie after the hike up from Tekapo town
J.Best view of the lake and its surrounding areas.. Better than stops on the way to Mt Cook
M.Great veiw daytime
M.It was a very good visit to the top of the mount. Would have liked to seen the night sky presentations, but time wouldn't allow for it.
A.Superb vantage point - great view
P.Great views across the Mackenzie Plains and Lake Tekapo, wonderful place for photos and walking. Great cafe too.
A.Nice views from up here. There is a loop walk, that starts at Tekapo Springs that takes you up to here. Definitely worth the walk.
R.$8 to go up cafe closed but Views are great
A.Beautiful views from here.
V.It is a nice Observatory, the view is not as beautiful as the church but it enalbes you to see the all Lake Tekapo
A.Fantastic views. Definitely worth the $8 to drive up there!
T.Too good to miss it
p.Amazing view, great cafe, pretty small car park for the amount of people
G.On the night we visited the viewing conditions were absolutely perfect! Made for a great experience.
T.Good views but crowded. Steep walk up or by car via toll. Food and drink available.
李.Good coffee and ice cream served in cafe. Beautiful scenes with rock and Lake Tekapo.
C.Beautiful views. Was windy so be sure to have a jacket that is good in blocking the wind.
D.Would have been preferable to visit the actual observatory as well, rather than only the scenic cafe and lookout.
L.We joined a last minute 3am observatory tour, which was added because the skies were clear and Saturn had risen. I baulked a bit at the price but it was totally worth it.
A.Absolutely breathtaking scenery. Lovely relaxing breakfast ahead of the tourist rush.
S.Breath taking views, best part is no Wi-Fi, take in the view and enjoy the wonders of Nz landscape
A.Good view here! Better to have a cup of coffee while seeing the beautiful view!
I.Great views - unfortunately very cold wind - not it's fault! !!
J.Amazing views, worth the 8$ to go up with a car.
J.Very windy but so beautiful
S.Place must visit while in Tekapo. Excellent view and prefect place to take some good photos.
J.Lovely views of lakes Tekapo and Alexandrina. We had hot drinks and toasts.
L.Awsome !!
K.Beautiful view, private road require 8 dollars troll. Well worth it! Eftpos available.
D.A must visit if you're in Tekapo, with impressive panoramic views of the township, the lake and surrounding scenery
R.Beautiful scenery and nice cafe shop. The flowers are everywhere during early summer.
S.Great views, worth the walk up the hill from the township
M.Unmissable in Day time for the incredible view. Well worth the $8. Road fees.
A.The view is unbelievable, heart rate dropping, my mind empty and relax...so enjoyable
F.Good views. Nice café. A visitor centre would be nice. I understand it's coming soon.
A.Wonderfull view, go for it, even if it s cloudy and you can t see the stars
N.Great night excursions from the township worth a visit if you like the universe
S.The mysteriously beautiful lake water and the rough and gold terrain of the Mackenzie country are breathtaking.
J.Awesome spot for brunch or afternoon dins.
Great views
F.Great view, but unfortunately poor service and very high prices for average food
C.+
Great view of the city.
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Entrance fee of $5 to drive up to the top.
S.Was there hiking. Good choices for lunch at the cafe,I recommend a smoothie and chocolate cake.
T.Nice and beautiful place.
P.Beautiful place!
S.Truly interesting place in a stunning location. Great hot chocolate and coffee too!
F.Great place to look at lake tekapo and alexandria. Would recommend going before sunset.
D.Great walk, great views shame the café was closed
D.Breathtakingly beautiful place on earth. Worth every minute spent on the summit.
R.Excellent drive and great views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding area. Snow in winter.
L.Awesome views and well worth the road toll of $8
G.Great views with a great caffe! Paid $8 for road access
Z.Went there during the day time. The view's breathtaking.
K.Beautiful night sky but don’t pay for the tour.
R.Nice viewpoint. Clean area. 8 NZD to pay for the road to go up
安.Really nice place! Awesome view when on the top of the mountain!
P.Fantastic tour. Well organised. Authoritative and helpful guides. Would suit a complete novice or a curious amateur.
E.Must go spot in NZ! Feeling so relaxed at Cafe while appreciating the view.
R.Excellent view, definitely worth visiting.
J.Awesome breath taking views. Worth a drive up the steep hill.
X.Best view point
C.Excellent view, but the narrow road going up/ down is the down side.
N.Earth and sky star visit was very educational but a little pricy if you don't get to see the stars and only get to see the observatory.
R.Even if you are not into stars, the drive and the views is worth the entrance fee
S.Quite a good view of Lake Tekapo town
I.Awesome walks and gorgeous view
T.Both the drive and the view point were great. Well worth the $8
L.Special guide for James and myself. Our daughter works as a guide up here. She is loving her job.
R.Incredible views but dress warmly even in summer.
E.good for walking around , not big and easy parking during summer vaction.
陳.Wonderful view.
D.Awesome Look out and you get awesome pictures of the area, well worth donation to enter.
M.Beautiful views. Overpriced cafe and toilets def need a revamp...
V.Absolutely mind blowing place
P.The place u must come at least once in your life. One of the fantastic scenery in the world!
H.Nice view, nice coffee, great pie & cake
A.Nice view but a shame to pay $8 just for the road. It is understandable why but still a pain
F.Lovely weather, great service from the young man at the gate today
j.Perfect location for couples to take photos without heaps of tourist
y.Beautiful landscape and if you're lucky you can find the stars
A.Steep drive up, best to go on a nice clear day. Avoid going on a windy day if you can.
E.Was on camp had a amazing time nice area to take photos
J.Nice views, reasonably priced food/drinks
A.Good view
K.Fantastic experience visiting the observatory the view go on forever.
K.Amazing view, well worth the trip up to have a look...
M.Views are amazing, cafe not so much.
A.Wow what a sensational place. Both the views during the day and the amazing astronomy at night.
E.Actually super awesome. Nice cafe at the top.
C.Fantastic view and be sure to join the Stargazing tours at night.
G.Great views, well worth the walk
P.Short distance from Lake Tekapo. Great view and nice cafe.
A.Wow, spectacular views. World class for sure.
N.The walk around is very beautiful and at night the stars are amazing
D.Wonderful scenery and a great cafe, amazing views
L.Best place in Tekapo for stargazing and amazing scenery on top of the mountain.
S.Excellent 360˚ view around Mackenzie Region. Tracking recommended.
T.Very nice view from up there!
A.Very informative with all information on tours etc
M.Visited during the day and stunning views
R.A world heritage, this one. The late and great Chandrasekar would have loved the astrophysics.
A.Nice walk great look out. Can be weather dependant.
M.The view is amazing
K.Best views ever
z.great view. totally worth the 8 dollars.
I.Beautiful view to the lake Tekapo and mountains ❤️
T.Good collection, layout could be better as was a bit convoluted to walk through at times
T.went on a tour and was astounded. conditions were perfect and the staff were lovely and insightful.
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