Astro Cafe
Astro Café
A glass-walled café on the summit of Mount John Observatory, offering 360-degree views of Lake Tekapo and the Mackenzie Basin.
Located on the summit beside Mount John Observatory and operated by the Dark Sky Project, it is Tekapo's most famous viewpoint café. It serves freshly ground coffee, salmon bagels, muffins, cakes, and other light meals. Reviews generally agree that the view is the star, and the food is on the expensive side (salmon bagel about NZ$22). Driving up requires paying a road fee of about NZ$14 per vehicle at the gate (card only). Alternatively, you can hike up for free from near Tekapo Springs, a round trip of about 1.5 hours. Seating is tight in peak season. The road and café close during severe weather such as strong winds or snow.
Opening hours
Daily approx. 9:00–16:00 (closes at 15:00 in some seasons); orders stop 15 minutes before closing; closed in severe weather
Nearby sights
- Mount John Observatory
- Tekapo Springs
- Dark Sky Project
- Lake Tekapo Lupins
- Lake Tekapo & Church of the Good Shepherd
- Sheepdog Memorial
- Lake Alexandrina
- Roundhill Ski Area