CHOOSE YOUR PACE

WORDS Liam Stretch

Drawn by his love of snow and the prospect of developing a ski field, Austrian alpine skier Karl Burtcher Senior and his wife Audrey sold their Fielding farm and bought Richmond Station on the eastern shores of Lake Tekapo in 1973. Their son, Karl Junior, the future developer and owner of Tekapo Springs, was five years old.

Though farming and operating a commercial ski field in the Mackenzie were tough going, especially during extreme winter conditions, the family of seven grew to appreciate what the area offered and its beauty, paving the way for Karl Junior’s vision.

Later, Karl Junior purchased the town’s 1935 skate rink to revive winter activities in the area.

Karl’s original idea had expanded to a vision of a year-round attraction, and in 2008, he and his team opened Tekapo Springs. Later additions include a snow tube park, two cooler pools, and the Aqua Play Area. In 2017 the Tekapo Springs team looked to the stars, and Tekapo Star Gazing was born, a tour within the hot pools making the best of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. With something for everyone, toddlers to retirees, Tekapo Springs’ Andy Murray says, “Our vision is to be the best at what we do and give every visitor an experience to remember.” tekaposprings.co.nz | peppersbluewater.co.nz

More excitement has also just begun with the recent introduction of Tekapo Springs Race Tekapo (16 September 2023), offering everything from a 3km kids’ dash to a 50km run through the stunning backdrop of Lake Tekapo and its surroundings.

With various course options available, the event attracts competitors and supporters from around the world, and this year, there’s even more international interest as life returns to normal after the Covid-19 pandemic.

Despite its popularity, the vast landscape creates a sense of solitude, making it feel like a personal experience.

The entire community rallies behind the race, with even the local school and kindergarten organising an ‘After Party’ to raise funds. It truly is a destination race, and local businesses also contribute by offering Race Weekend Specials. Last year’s attracted 1000 runners. This year’s event is expected to be even bigger, according to race director Kerry Uren.

Looking to next year, the local calendar is full. The Mackenzie, a mountain bike race, sees bikers traverse a mixture of sealed roads, gravel roads, farm tracks, river crossings, and highcountry stations. The race is on 20 April 2024. There are also other events in the pipeline and being worked on, such as a Wellness Festival.

With so much on offer, it’s suggested you stay awhile. Peppers Bluewater, located a stone’s throw away from Tekapo Springs, provides a range of accommodation options. The resort caters to families, couples, and solo travellers, offering hotel rooms to fully selfcontained apartments.

For dining, Rakinui Restaurant offers delicious breakfast and dinner options. The menu presents a delightful fusion of international and modern New Zealand cuisine with a contemporary twist. The restaurant’s stunning views of Lake Tekapo set it apart, providing a picturesque backdrop to your meal.

Peppers Bluewater is part of the Accor Group, meaning they have the Accor Limitless Loyalty Programme, ALL (Accor Live Limitless), which offers exclusive benefits and status for members.

Whether it’s soaking in the warm waters, looking at the stars, running motivated by the majesty around you, or simply relaxing back in your room, taking in the view, there’s plenty to do in Tekapo.