Astro Café

Quite possibly the most scenic spot for a flat white in Aotearoa, Astro Café is a coffee shop experience not to be missed when visiting the Mackenzie region. Earn the views by hiking up to the top of Ōtīhewai Mt John via an established track from Lake Tekapo, or drive the winding road past a tollbooth all the way up to the University of Canterbury’s Observatory site.

If you’ve chosen to hike, the locals recommend walking up the steep way and down the loop, as this route gives the best views of the lake; and if the comfort of a car is your preferred method of transport, take note that an $8 road use charge applies for private vehicles.

There’s a sense of extraterrestrial territory at the summit, with the Mackenzie basin plains stretching as far as the eye can see, and the windowless, round roofed observatory buildings dotting the landscape. The café sits in pride of place at the very top of the hill, clad extravagantly in glass. 

A wide selection of hot and cold drinks, plus a cabinet filled with refuelling options and ice cream, awaits visitors at Astro Café. For something a little different, order a memorable Saturn-themed cappuccino to go with the theme of this unique spot.

Find a table outside and take in the turquoise waters of the lake, the vast plains of South Canterbury and on a clear day, the peak of Aoraki Mt Cook. Snap a selfie or two to pop on the 'gram and be sure to induce envy in anyone scrolling through your feed. Not that it’s all about boasting, but the experience of sipping a coffee with views like these is well worth savouring and sharing.