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If your trip to Lake Tekapo is all locked in but your travel itinerary is a bit on the empty side, we can give you a helping hand.
Plan a stop at Tekapo Springs. It's one sight you'll usually find on many travelers' must-do lists. Church of the Good Shepherd and Mount John Observatory are also close by and worth checking out.
If you're looking for day-trip inspiration, we've got some ideas. Located 34 miles away, Westland Tai Poutini National Park is worth the drive. Aoraki / Mount Cook should be high up on your list here. Fox Glacier and Tasman Glacier are fantastic attractions too. The locals will also probably point you toward Geraldine, 37 miles away. If you only see one attraction here, make sure it's Pleasant Valley Daffodils. (But we're also huge fans of Talbot Forest Scenic Reserve and Geraldine Vintage Car and Machinery Museum.)
Here's a rundown of our top suggestions if you want to grab the biggest discounts on a car rental:
No other mode of transportation can give you freedom and convenience like your own car. Whatever the reason for your adventure to Lake Tekapo, CarRentals.com has a great selection of vehicles for you to pick from. Spending time in the city with your significant other? Get a little cozy by renting a mini or compact car. Lots of fun to drive and easy to park in tight spots, you'll adore sitting alongside each other in one of these little rides. A full-size car is ideal for families. There's room enough for everyone and you can venture where you want, when you want. If you're on a work trip, a premium car will carry you from one meeting to the next in style and comfort.
Sometimes it's all about the journey, which makes your car choice particularly important. If you're planning an unforgettable road trip around Lake Tekapo, a roomy SUV could be your perfect match. If you'd like the best possible deal and plan on staying mostly in the city, a budget compact is a wise pick. All you need to do is choose what's going to be the best fit, load up the car, and start clocking up those miles.
Before you get behind the wheel in Lake Tekapo, get acquainted with the local traffic regulations. From red light rules to seat belt regulations, here's what you'll want to know:
In Lake Tekapo, motorists drive on the left side of the road. This means the driver's seat is on the right side. If you've chosen a manual transmission rental vehicle, familiarize yourself with shifting gears with your left hand.
Finding a place to leave the car in Lake Tekapo is a breeze. There's no need to drive around the block in heavy traffic here — and that's why the locals love it. There's lots of off and on-street parking to choose from.
One of the great things about escaping to a smaller city is less traffic, so don't worry too much about peak-hour gridlock. With a population of around 330, you can look forward to a smooth Lake Tekapo driving experience.
Speed limits vary throughout the city of Lake Tekapo, but generally range from 50 km/h to 100 km/h. Most residential zones have a maximum speed of 40 km/h unless marked otherwise.
One of two things will happen. Your chosen car rental company may bill the amount of the fine to your credit card. This is the usual approach. On the other hand, it may give your contact information to local law enforcement agencies so the fine is issued straight to you.
Like many places, regular cell phone usage is not allowed while driving around Lake Tekapo. There is an exception for hands-free or Bluetooth capabilities. Just ensure you stay focused on the road.
In Lake Tekapo, it's a punishable offence to drive with a BAC (blood alcohol content) higher than 0.05%. If you plan to have a drink or two with lunch or dinner, leave your rental car at your hotel.
Turning on a red light isn't allowed in Lake Tekapo. Always keep an eye on traffic signs and lights so that you don't break any road rules.
Although there are some exceptions, seat belts must be fastened in Mackenzie District.