TRAVEL DIARY: DAY 4
On the Road from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
Ever heard that New Zealand has more sheep than people? I used to think that was just a running joke—but it turns out, it’s absolutely true! In 2023, there were about 24.4 million sheep roaming the country, compared to just 5 million humans. No wonder we barely saw a soul on our drive to Lake Tekapo—just lots of wide open land and plenty of woolly locals!
When I went down to take a photo, I was met with the funniest sight — a whole bunch of sheep staring right back at me. Such a simple moment, but it brought me so much joy.
But not just sheep, there were a lot of multi coloured cows as well.
The drive to Tekapo isn’t just about the destination—the views along the way are just stunning.
View of the countryside with my drive by shots
Stopover: GERALDINE
We stopped in Geraldine on our way through the South Island, and it was exactly what we needed — peaceful, charming, and full of little surprises. Wandering through town at a slow pace, it felt good to just take a breath and soak it all in.
We continued on and made another little stop and wandered along the stony path by the lake. I had just enough time to take out my sketchbook and capture a quick impression of the view. It’s quiet moments like these that I really cherish.
We checked into our Airbnb and right across the road was a small farm. A few little ones were playing just outside the fence, full of energy and excitement—it was such a sweet sight to arrive to.
Since it was still early, we then had a short walk around the main town of Tekapo.
Spotted some fun sculptures and wall art featuring sheep and a kiwi (nope not the fruit) — it’s the flightless bird native to New Zealand.
This is a Moa, a giant, flightless bird that was native to New Zealand. However, it went extinct relatively quickly after human settlement of the islands, primarily due to overhunting
We had dinner, and as we walked by the lake afterward, the sky lit up with the most beautiful colours—it was the perfect end to the evening.
We were meant to do some stargazing—it’s kind of a big deal in Lake Tekapo. But we didn’t have a telescope or anyone who knew what they were doing, so… this is pretty much all we saw. 🤭 😂😂
A little tip if you’re planning to go stargazing — either go with a guide or do a bit of research beforehand. It makes a big difference.
Tekapo is located in a remote area, far from major cities and their light pollution, providing a clear and dark backdrop for viewing the star. – Google
Anyway, time to get some sleep and be ready for tomorrow’s journey.
I am linking this to Jo’s Monday Walk .
Looks like a great road trip. I love the photos, especially the sheep.
I so love the sheep too. Thanks so much Dan.
I’m not surprised to hear that there are more sheep than people in NZ. Our little one got so much joy from seeing the sheep and cows. We even saw some deer as well. Great captures. It’s definitely a scenic drive.
Yes, I knew of the deers too but I didn’t get to see them up close and personal. Thanks for the comment.
So lovely. Those sheep look like they’re saying: Well, are you going to join us or what?
They may have been thinking that. But to me it seems they were too surprised or annoyed that I was there that they stopped moving all at once and just stared at me. Haha thanks for your thoughts VJ.
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This all looks just as I imagine New Zealand to look – beautiful scenery, lots of sheep and cows, and quiet laid-back towns 🙂
I really enjoyed these laid back towns and driving with my husband. Jack wasn’t stressed at all even when he had to drive for hours because there were literally no cars around. Plus of course the amazing landscapes.
Well, you saw stars! And it all looks wonderfully peaceful and laid back. Thanks for sharing, Teresa. It’s always a pleasure to see you sketching xx
Don’t talk to me about the stars. When I searched in Google for “stars in Tekapo” the photos were all spectacular.oh well…. Thanks for commenting Jo. I love sketching especially in quiet places like this.
Definitely a perfect way to end such a lovely day
Definitely something to be excited about.Thanks Hammad.
Your shots look so much like North Yorkshire … with added views!
Is that where the Cotswolds is? I did enjoy the drive there too and the sky.
Absolutely not! The Cotswolds are central south west-ish, whereas NY is north eastern England.
I see. Thanks for that.
Such a lovely place and wonderful road trip
Thanks Arlene. I really enjoyed this trip.
I had no idea there were so many sheep in New Zealand. Just one more reason I want to visit there. Thanks for all the info and wonderful pics. 😊
Oh yes Pepper. Better plan on a trip now.