New Zealand is blessed with impressive wildlife, stunning natural features, unique flora and fauna as well as a rich culture. It is no exaggeration that the forests, mountains, and green hills in New Zealand all look straight out of a movie.
This picturesque destination offers the most beautiful natural scenery to its visitors. And adding to its collection are the captivating and tranquil lakes.
The beautiful mountain ranges of New Zealand
Having close to 3,820 lakes, many were created by glacial movements eons ago. Now, they are surrounded by a variety of scenic landscapes of New Zealand. The lakes are spread all across the country and some even fall in national parks.
Lakes in New Zealand are well-known among visitors solely due to their natural beauty. One can even come across different types of lakes that differ from one another in features.
Here are seven famous and breath-taking lakes in New Zealand that are not to be missed during your trip at all costs:
1. Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo is one of the three lakes that runs from north to south in the Mackenzie Basin situated on South Island. This lake is the second-largest in New Zealand and attracts many visitors.
The lake is fed by the Goodley River which supplies the high-altitude lake with cool and clear water all year round. Lake Tekapo is also part of the UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve makes stargazing an ultimate experience.
Lake Tekapo during the spring season
There are a few resorts in the nearby town and also a regional park near the lake that provides various recreational activities. Lake Tekapo is also a popular day-trip destination as it is located just 100 km west of Christchurch.
The majestic snow-covered mountains towering over the lake and beautiful wildflowers that bloom in spring make this lake one of the prettiest.
Visitors can perform activities such as skiing, stargazing, and sightseeing near Lake Tekapo.
2. Lake Wakatipu
Lake Wakatipu is New Zealand’s inland finger lake and is located in South Island Otago Region. Measuring up to 80 km, it is the longest lake in the country.
Lake Wakatipu is shaped like a lightning bolt and considered to be a gem of Queenstown. It is surrounded by high altitude majestic mountains that are often snow-covered and low rocky hills.
lake wakatipu
The best way to enjoy your trip to Lake Wakatipu is by taking a boat tour. The tours offer views that are not visible from the shoreline. There are certain designated areas for swimming near the lake, complete with white sandy beaches.
Near Wakatipu, visitors can enjoy cruising, trout fishing, and kayaking.
3. Lake Wanaka
Lake Wanaka is located in New Zealand’s South Island and sits nearly 1000 feet above sea level. Thus, this lake is aptly named the Southern Alps.
Lake Wanaka is close to Mount Aspiring National Park and perfect for those looking to be away from the crowds.
lake wanaka
The towns nearby Lake Wanaka have trendy restaurants, shops, and galleries that offer the best way to spend time in the afternoon. The area around the lake has four distinct seasons yet no matter the visit period, Lake Wanaka mesmerizes with its beauty.
Visitors can try out various adventurous activities such as watersports, cycling, hiking, and climbing.
4. Lake Pukaki
Giving the perfect views of snowy Mount Cook, Lake Pukaki is one of the large lakes that border the Mackenzie basin. It is located in the central portion of South Island and at an equal distance to the Pacific and the Tasman Sea coasts.
Lake Pukaki is one of the lakes that was formed by glacial action millennia ago. The lake is surrounded by New Zealand’s breathtaking and picturesque alpine landscapes.
The dreamlike Lake Pukaki
Along with having magnificent views of the tallest peak of the country Mount Cook, the lake’s water often has a cloudy yet aquamarine hue. This makes it perfect to photograph the surreal scenery of Lake Pukaki.
It is interesting to note that this location was also featured in the famous ‘Lord of the Rings’ movie series!
Visitors can enjoy activities such as various winter snow sports, stargazing, and hiking near Lake Pukaki.
5. Emerald Lakes
The Emerald lakes are situated in the Tongariro National Park and are also part of the Tongariro Alpine crossing. The alpine crossing is a full-day hike and one of the popular outdoor activities visitors can enjoy.
The lakes are defined by New Zealand’s stunning volcanic formations which gives them a distinct feel. The beautiful sapphire color of the lake is due to the minerals dissolved into the water.
The volcanoes surrounding the Emerald Lakes
Many of the Emerald lakes’ waters take on different hues such as jade, aquamarine, and turquoise which make them equally unique and fascinating.
Visitors can enjoy the activities of trekking and photography at the Emerald Lakes.
6. Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo is located on the country’s North Island and was formed from the volcano of the same name. By surface area, it is known to be the largest lake in the country. The lake is roughly the size of Singapore so one can expect its humongous beauty.
Due to its volcanic birth, Lake Taupo is home to year-round steam vents, geysers, and bubbling mud pools. In many areas of the lake, the water is pleasantly warm because of the geothermal forces below the surface. There are designated beach areas that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Tourists parasailing at Lake Toupa
The lake provides spectacular videos of the hovering mountains and the nature of Tongariro Alpine Crossing. The Mine Bay Maori Carvings near Lake Taupo make up for an interesting cultural attraction.
Lake Taupo is also conveniently close to the enormous Huka Falls which is one of the amazing tourist sites in the country.
There is a wide range of activities for visitors near the lake including sky diving, bungee jumping, water sports, and a geothermal hot pool.
7. Lake Matheson
Lake Matheson is surrounded by ancient woodlands and is known for its brown tea-colored waters. The lake also encompasses the Clearwater Suspension Bridge which offers the best views of the surrounding.
The lake has a large species of eels and is often spotted near the surface. There are a variety of water birds including indigenous birds that are seen near Lake Matheson which makes it a haven for birdwatchers.
Mount Cook’s reflection on Lake Matheson
The heavenly backdrops of Mount Cook and Mount Aoraki make the lake appear scenic. Several trails lead to various vantage points and offer unobstructed views of the lake and surrounding area.
Activities such as nature walks, photography, and bird watching can be enjoyed at Lake Matheson.
New Zealand’s lakes should be on your bucket list the next time you travel to the country. Which out of the seven lakes did you find the most stunning?
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