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Lake McGregor and Lake Tekapo Inlet

Canterbury  >  New Zealand

One of the best sites for endangered Kakī (Black Stilt) in Aotearoa. Lake and stream inlet with waterfowl, waders, shags, and more.

Added* by Jonathan Klawitter
Most recent update 2 tammikuu 2026

Description

The McGregor Stream inlet into Lake Tekapo and Lake McGregor is one of the best places in Aotearoa New Zealand to see the endangered but recovering Kakī (Black Stilt). These striking waders are now present nearly year-round, though winter might not be the best time to visit. Also other waders like South Island Oystercatcher and Wrybill breed in the area and are present in spring. You can combine birding with a walk around Lake McGregor, which takes about 1–1.5 hours, or stay at the adjacent campground.

The lake sits between rolling hills just before the mountains, offering spectacular views. The lakes attract a good numbers of swimming friends including Australian Shoveler and Pūteketeke (Great Crested Grebe), along with other long-legged friends such as Royal Spoonbill and Pied Stilt, diving friends like Little Pied Cormorant, and the regular singing friends.

Details

Access

Lake McGregor is less than 15 minutes by car from Lake Tekapo township. Turn right from State Highway 8 onto Godley Peaks Road, just after leaving the township and before the airport.

Parking is available at the lake, but you can also stop along the road to scan the inlet. A campsite is located between Lake McGregor and adjacent Lake Alexandrina if you want spend more time in the area.

Terrain and Habitat

Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , Lake

Conditions

Flat , No shadow

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

Spring , Summer , Autumn

Best time to visit

Summer

Route

Unpaved road , Wide path

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot , Bicycle , Car , Wheelchair

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

Other birds you can see here

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