Frequently Asked Questions

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions not answered by the below frequently asked ones … we’re always happy to help!

• Is linen provided?
  Yes, the pricing includes full linen, including bedding, bath towels, face clothes and hand towels for the number of guests advised. Guests just need to bring swimming towels if planning to experience the Tekapo Springs Hot Pools.
• Is cleaning included in the rate?
  Yes, all our properties are cleaned before and after each stay. Upon your departure we simply ask that you leave the property tidy, with dishes done. Instructions for rubbish separation are clearly advised in each house and ALL our properties are smoke-free. If there is excessive cleaning or rubbish handling required on your departure this will be charged to your credit card and you would be promptly advised.
• What else is supplied in the properties?
  Our holiday homes are all equipped with the essentials for cooking and dining. They also have a supply of tea towels, dish clothes, dishwashing liquid, washing powder, hand soap, toilet paper, tea/coffee/sugar.  For stays less than 5 nights your accommodation is un-serviced, therefore all supplies & linen initially provided are for the duration of your stay. Extra supplies can be purchased at the local supermarket.
• Do they have free WIFI internet?
  All except one of our properties provide free WIFI (excluding 14 Scott St) There is also a free half-hour WIFI connection available in the village centre and cafes.
• How and when are we required to pay for a booking?
  A non-refundable $15 deposit is required to secure your booking, after which DT will email full confirmation details, including payment options.
  Larger deposits may be requested for peak or long stays.
  Remaining payment may be made with credit card via DT’s secure payment gateway or by funds transfer to Discover Tekapo’s bank account prior to arrival. Alternatively, payment may be made on check-in at the DT office by cash or card. Credit card transactions incur a 2.75% transaction fee. AMEX or Diners cards are not accepted.
  Please see our full Terms of Stay to check which payment requirements apply to your stay.
• How do we check-in on our arrival in Tekapo?
  Unless agreed otherwise with DT, check-in is between 3-6 pm at our office in the village centre.  We like to greet our guests on arrival when possible as we enjoy sharing local knowledge of activities, eating places and important information about your accommodation.  However if you prefer a self check-in, or will be arriving after our office hours, we can provide access to a key-safe at the property on request.
• What time is check-out?
  Standard check-out time is 10am. A slightly later checkout request may be accepted dependent on our housekeeping scheduling – please ask.
• What is the cancellation policy?
  See our full Terms of Stay for the policy that will apply to your stay dates.
  Please be assured, if at any time Covid-19 means guests can no longer travel we will revise our cancellation policy for affected bookings as see fit.
• Is it possible to add an extra bed to a house for our stay?
  No, the maximum number of guests is noted on each property listing and we are unable to add extra beds unless it is a port-a-cot.
• Can you provide a port-a-cot or highchair for a baby?
  Yes, we have several highchairs and port-a-cots available for hire at $10 each. Please contact us to check if there is one available for the dates you wish to book.
• Can we bring our dog?
  By prior agreement ONLY, a number of our houses welcome well-behaved, house trained dogs – view pet-friendly properties here.
  Dogs need to be booked in prior to arrival – we may not honour bookings if pets arrive unexpectedly.
  We ask dog owners to follow a few simple rules while staying;
  • One dog only, unless by agreement
  • Unless the property is fenced keep your dog leashed while outside on the premises
  • Do not leave your dog inside the house unattended
  • Bring your own pet bedding as dogs are not permitted on beds or furniture
  • Ensure you pick up after your dog and dispose of it in the correct bin
  • Clear up any fur or fluff inside before you leave

  There is a dog fee of $30 per dog per stay. In case of any damages/stains on the carpet, etc. the credit card supplied to secure the reservation will be charged to cover any professional cleaning fees. Please contact us to discuss the best option for your and your 4 legged friend.

• Can we charge our EV at the holiday home?
  Only one of our properties offers an Electric Vehicle charger, Araki.  Charging an EV in any other property is not permitted as they do not meet the Work Safe requirements.  Please use the public EV charging station located at the Tekapo Four Square supermarket.
• What procedures does Discover Tekapo have in place in these Covid times?
  Properties are thoroughly cleaned and ventilated after each stay. Self check-ins are easily arranged if preferred – payment would be required in advance and the key would be available in a lock-box at the the property for your arrival.