Lake Tekapo is famous for its breathtaking display of lupins that bloom along its shores from mid-November to the end of December. These vibrant Russell lupins were brought to the Mackenzie Basin in the 1940s, originating from seeds planted in gardens that spread over time. In 1949, Connie Scott from Godley Peaks Station spread lupin seeds along the roadside after buying about £100 worth from a local stock and station agent. While they are visually stunning, these flowers do alter the ecosystems of braided rivers. In December 2020, there were fewer lupins around Lake Tekapo because the lake"s water level was too high during a crucial period in their growth cycle, preventing them from blooming.

Lupins start to bloom in late spring and continue to flower until mid-summer, which typically falls between November and February. However, the most vibrant display of flowers usually occurs from around mid-November to late December or early January. Keep in mind that this timing can vary based on weather conditions.