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The Birch | 3BR + Sauna | Walk to Lake

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A modern outdoor hot tub area with a wooden deck, a glass door leading to a patio, and a view of a lush garden.
A hot tub on a wooden deck with a view of a lush garden and tall trees.
A wooden cabin with a signpost indicating directions to Milkyway, Polaris, and Eclipse.
A hotel room with two beds, a wooden headboard, a wardrobe, and a framed picture on the wall.
A modern house with a deck, large windows, and a patio area.

Reviews

8.0 out of 10
Very good

Entire home

3 bedrooms1 bathroom

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available
  • Mountain view

Explore the area

View in a map
Lake Tekapo, Canterbury
  • Place, Church of the Good Shepherd
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Lake Tekapo
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Dark Sky Project
    ‪8 min walk‬

Room options

Similar properties

About the neighborhood

Lake Tekapo

With a stay at this vacation home in Lake Tekapo, you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Lake Tekapo and Church of the Good Shepherd. .This vacation home is 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Maclaren Footbridge and 0.3 mi (0.4 km) from Cowans Hill Walkway.

What's nearby

  • Cowans Hill Walkway - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Church of the Good Shepherd - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Lake Tekapo - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Sheepdog Statue - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Dark Sky Project - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles

Restaurants

  • ‪Jack Rabbit - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Greedy Cow - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪TLV Restaurant & Bar - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Ramen Tekapo - ‬10 min walk
  • ‪Mackenzie's Stonegrill - ‬10 min walk

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

The Birch | 3BR + Sauna | Walk to Lake

Summary:

Wake up in the heart of Lake Tekapo at The Birch, a warm 3-bedroom cottage for up to 7 guests. Stroll to the lakefront, village shops and Church of the Good Shepherd, then return to a spacious living area, full kitchen, Wi-Fi, heating, air conditioning, laundry and free parking. Unwind outdoors, enjoy shared sauna access, or settle in after a day of stargazing, skiing or exploring the Mackenzie region. A comfortable base for families, groups and friends alike here. Book your Tekapo escape today!



The Space:

❤️ Why You’ll Love Staying Here



📍 Walkable Lake Tekapo location — the lake, Church of the Good Shepherd, supermarket and local restaurants are all close by.

💞 Sleeps up to 7 guests — ideal for families, friends and groups travelling together.

🛏️ Flexible 3-bedroom layout — two queen bedrooms plus a third bedroom with three single beds.

🍳 Fully equipped kitchen — prepare breakfast before exploring, cook dinner at home or enjoy an easy takeaway night around the dining table.

🛋️ Spacious living area — unwind together with comfortable seating, TV and plenty of natural light.

❄️ Year-round comfort — heating and air conditioning help keep the cottage comfortable through Tekapo's changing seasons.

🌿 Outdoor space — enjoy the backyard, outdoor furniture and fresh alpine air between adventures.

🚗 Free parking — convenient on-site parking makes road trips and day trips around the Mackenzie region easy.

🧖 Shared sauna access — relax after a day of hiking, skiing or sightseeing.



💚 Supporting Lake Tekapo

A $5 Community Infrastructure Contribution is added to every reservation to help support local infrastructure.



The Birch is a welcoming 3-bedroom Lake Tekapo cottage designed for easy, comfortable stays with family or friends.



The open-plan living and dining area gives everyone space to gather, whether you're planning the next day's adventures, sharing a meal or relaxing after exploring the lake and surrounding mountains.



A practical full kitchen makes longer stays easy, while the washing machine is especially useful for families, ski trips and travellers spending several days in the region.



The home also includes one modern bathroom with a walk-in shower, Wi-Fi, TV, heating and air conditioning.



🛏️ Sleeping Arrangements

Bedroom 1: 3 single beds

Bedroom 2: 1 queen bed

Bedroom 3: 1 queen bed



Sleeps up to 7 guests



This setup works especially well for families with children, groups of friends or guests who appreciate having separate sleeping spaces.



🍳 Kitchen & Dining

Enjoy the flexibility of cooking at home with a well-equipped kitchen featuring a fridge and freezer, stove, oven, microwave, dishwasher, coffee maker, cookware and dining essentials.



☕ Start the morning with coffee before heading to the lake.

🍝 Cook an easy family dinner after a full day exploring.

🥡 Or grab takeaway from nearby restaurants and enjoy a relaxed night in.



📺 Comfort & Essentials

Everything is set up for a simple, comfortable Tekapo stay:



📶 Fast, reliable Wi-Fi

📺 TV for relaxed evenings

❄️ Heating + air conditioning

🧺 Washing machine

🚿 Walk-in shower + bathroom essentials

🔑 Self check-in via lockbox

🚗 Free on-site parking

🧳 Luggage drop-off available



🌿 Outdoor Space

Step outside to enjoy the backyard, patio or balcony area and outdoor furniture.



It's a great place to enjoy fresh alpine air, unwind in the sunshine or give the kids a little extra room between outings.



🧖 Extra Ohana Amenities



Make your stay even more relaxing with a few optional extras:

🔥 Shared sauna — available to Ohana guests; advance notice is recommended.

💆 In-house massage — available for $90 per hour, subject to availability.

🪑 Portacot + high chair — available on request for a $25 fee.

⚡ EV charging — an EV charger is located a short walk from the cottage.



📍 Explore Lake Tekapo

The Birch puts you in a convenient spot for enjoying both the village and the wider Mackenzie region.



🐑 Church of the Good Shepherd — approx. 2–6 min walk

🌊 Lake Tekapo lakefront — approx. 2–5 min walk

🛍️ Supermarket + restaurants — just across the road

🧖 Tekapo Springs — approx. 5–7 min drive

🔭 Mount John Observatory area — short drive

🎿 Roundhill Ski Area — approx. 45 min drive

🏔️ Aoraki / Mount Cook — approx. 1.5 hr drive



Spend the day lakeside, head out for a scenic drive, enjoy Tekapo's famous dark skies or explore the surrounding alpine landscapes before returning to your comfortable home base.



💯 Perfect For

✔️ Families visiting Lake Tekapo

✔️ Groups of friends

✔️ Couples travelling together

✔️ Stargazing getaways

✔️ Ski and winter trips

✔️ South Island road trips

✔️ Longer Mackenzie stays

✔️ Aoraki / Mount Cook day trips



💬 What Guests Can Look Forward To

As a new listing, The Birch is ready to welcome its first guests.



Expect a comfortable 3-bedroom layout, convenient Lake Tekapo village location, easy access to the lake and local attractions, plus the everyday amenities that make group travel feel simple and relaxed.



📅 Book Your Lake Tekapo Stay

Spend your days exploring Lake Tekapo and the Mackenzie region, then return to a warm, spacious cottage where everyone can relax together.



Book your Lake Tekapo escape at The Birch today!



Guest Access:

During your stay, you'll have exclusive access to all the amenities and spaces within the property.



The Neighborhood:

Lake Tekapo: A Slice of Paradise

Lake Tekapo is famous for its stunning turquoise waters, alpine scenery, and clear night skies. Our lodge is perfectly situated to offer you the best of this charming town and its natural beauty.



Scenic Beauty and Outdoor Activities

Nestled in the Mackenzie Basin, Lake Tekapo is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including the Southern Alps and rolling hills. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to enjoy, from hiking and mountain biking to fishing and boating. Don’t miss Tekapo Springs, where you can relax in hot pools, enjoy a spa treatment, or skate on the outdoor rink.



Stargazing and Astronomy

Lake Tekapo is part of the UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Visit the Mt. John Observatory for an unforgettable experience under the stars. Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or simply love gazing at the night sky, the clarity and brilliance of the stars here will leave you in awe.



Local Attractions

Church of the Good Shepherd: This iconic stone church, set against the backdrop of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps, is a must-visit. It’s a popular spot for photography and a symbol of the area’s serene beauty.

Lake Tekapo Village: Just a short drive from the lodge, the village offers a selection of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, savor local cuisine, or pick up souvenirs to remember your trip.

Tekapo Springs: Indulge in relaxation and fun at Tekapo Springs, featuring hot pools, a day spa, and various recreational activities.

Dining and Shopping

The local dining scene in Lake Tekapo is diverse, offering everything from cozy cafes to fine dining. Enjoy fresh, local produce and savor the flavors of New Zealand cuisine. For those who prefer to cook at the lodge, there are grocery stores nearby where you can find all the essentials.



Transportation

Lake Tekapo is easily accessible by car, with well-maintained roads connecting it to major cities like Christchurch and Queenstown. Free parking is available at the lodge for your convenience. For those without a car, local shuttle services and tours can help you explore the area.



Community and Safety

Lake Tekapo is known for its friendly and welcoming community. The area is safe and family-friendly, making it an ideal destination for travelers of all ages. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, you'll feel right at home in this picturesque neighborhood.



Discover the magic of Lake Tekapo and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquil ambiance of this unique destination. Your stay at Big Birch promises to be an unforgettable experience.



Other Things to Note:

You’ll receive a trusted welcome link after booking with all property details, access codes, Wi-Fi, and easy instructions for your stay. Please take a moment to complete it — it helps us prepare everything for your arrival.



Special Offers and Amenities

-A sauna is available for your use. Please note this is a shared amenity among Ohana guests, so feel free to enjoy it whenever it is available. If you plan to use it, please let us know ahead of time so we can prepare it and inform our team on the ground.

- Portacot and high chair are available upon request for a small fee of $25.

- EV charger is located a short walk from your booked unit.

-Treat yourself to an in house massage during your Tekapo stay. Exclusive to Ohana guests, this is an easy way to relax without leaving your room. Sessions are $90 per hour and available on request, with limited daily time slots so booking ahead is recommended.



Supermarket and a variety of restaurants are conveniently located just across the road. The lake and church are only a 2-minute walk from Sealy Street in Lake Tekapo.



🚽 A Quick Note About the Plumbing



To help protect Lake Tekapo’s plumbing system, please flush toilet paper only. Place all wipes—including those labelled “flushable”—in the rubbish bin provided. Thank you for helping us care for the property and the local infrastructure.



Interaction with Guests:

While I won't be available in person, I'm committed to ensuring that your stay is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. You can reach out to me through Airbnb chat from 6AM - 12MN, Mondays through Sundays.
Make yourself comfortable in this air-conditioned vacation home, featuring a kitchen with a refrigerator and an oven. There's a private balcony. Conveniences include a microwave and a coffee/tea maker.
Take in the views from a garden.
Guests will find features like internet access and onsite parking.

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower

Entertainment

  • TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)

General

  • Garden

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

• No loud noise after 10:00 pm Please keep noise to a minimum after 10:00 pm, especially outdoors. The property is in a residential area, and our n...

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Property is also known as

6661b58cbc9fc400126434b1

The Birch | 3BR + Sauna | Walk to Lake Reviews

Reviews

8.0

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 2 out of 4 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 4 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 4 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 4 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 4 reviews

8.0/10

Cleanliness

6.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nigel P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very nice time there, we all really enjoyed our stay

Very nice time there, keen to stay again with the kids
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Neville W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A night away

every thing was there for a warm and comfy stay
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Mark

Liked: Communication
The Birch is an old cottage with some poky rooms. The beds were very hard. The shower was strange. It was disconcerting to find a newer cabin in the grounds with a view from my kitchen straight into the bedrooms. The area was quiet and dark at night. It was a 5-10 minute walk to the main shopping area. This is not the worst place that I have stayed. It’s just average.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Jeff Patton M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication
Is situated close to The Church of the Good Shepard. 5mins walk to local 4square. The property management company park several work vans outside the property. We arrived after the set check in time to a cleaner still cleaning. During our stay we had constant messages from the property management group checking on us...even at 10:30pm which sucked after a long day travelling and trying to sleep. The house was tidy enough just cobwebs and dirty walls (tomato sauce from last guests etc). The shower is horrible. There was no plug for the bathroom sink. It isnt a horrible property however for the price expected a bit more.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025