Lake Benmore
Lake Benmore
Lake Benmore is located on the South Island and is the largest artificial lake in New Zealand. Although it is man-made, the minerals in the lake water are a natural wonder. Walking on the Benmore Peninsula, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lake islands, surrounding mountains, and forests. In addition, boating and fishing are very popular activities.
Lake Dunstan
Lake Dunstan
Lake Dunstan is located in the town of Cromwell, just an hour's drive from Queenstown. This is the best way to enjoy the Central Otago region, including the renowned Pinot Noir wines. The old town of Cromwell, located on the shores of Lake Dunstan, represents the history of the small town. The gold mining center here is still very active, preserving historical buildings and the heritage of local craftsmanship.
Lake Rotoiti
Lake Rotoiti
Lake Rotoiti is located in Nelson Lakes National Park, backed by Mount Robert and surrounded by beech forests. Hiking along the lakeside trails, you will encounter tui and bellbirds and listen to their calls. The nearby Mount Robert Ski Field is a good club-style ski field and a great place for mountain skiing in winter.
Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo
The uniqueness of Lake Tekapo is world-renowned. It has been designated as an 'International Dark Sky Reserve,' making it one of the best stargazing spots in the world. Located just a three-hour drive from Christchurch on the South Island, Lake Tekapo is a playground during the day. From April to September each year, the turquoise lake surface freezes over, transforming into a vast ice-skating rink. Additionally, you can enjoy the fun of snow tubing. In the summer, water slides become the hottest attraction. Of course, there are also alpine hot pools and swimming pools, providing endless fun.
Sealy Tarns
Sealy Tarns
If you plan to hike the Sealy Tarns track, you must have enough courage and be well-prepared. Here, you can enjoy unparalleled views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, as well as the magnificent scenery of the Hooker Glacier, Mueller Glacier, and their glacial lakes. After a strenuous yet rewarding day of hiking, consider staying at the Mueller Hut for a few days to relax and take your time to appreciate the small tarns dotted along the trail.
Mavora Lakes
Mavora Lakes
Located in the southern region, the Mavora Lakes area boasts unique wild natural landscapes. Here, you will find both rugged, steep mountains and expansive, gentle grassy slopes. The Mavora Lakes area is not only a filming location for the 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy but also a great spot for boating, mountain biking, fishing, camping, and hiking. You can opt for a one-day hike, or if you're feeling adventurous, embark on a four-day trek along the Mavora Greenstone Walkway.
Pinders Pond
Pinders Pond
In the 1860s, a large number of prospectors flocked to the Teviot Valley in Central Otago, South Island, sparking a gold rush. Today, you can still see old mining equipment here. Pinders Pond is also a key stop on the Clutha Gold Cycle Trail. This trail circles the Clutha Mata-Au River and takes two days to complete. Along the way, information boards provide insights into the history of moa hunting and European farming in the area.
Pouakai Circuit Tarns
Pouakai Circuit Tarns
The west coast of the North Island not only boasts majestic black sand beaches but is also an impressive surfing destination. Mount Taranaki, with its near-perfect volcanic cone, also stands tall here. The Pouakai Circuit encircles this volcanic cone and takes two to three days to complete. Along the way, you will traverse foothills, pass by clear tarns, expansive moss swamps, and steep rock walls. The Pouakai Track is an excellent choice for a day hike.
Pouakai Circuit Tarns
Pouakai Circuit Tarns
The west coast of the North Island not only boasts majestic black sand beaches but is also an impressive surfing destination. Mount Taranaki, with its nearly perfect volcanic cone, also stands tall here. The Pouakai Circuit encircles this volcanic cone and takes two to three days to complete. Along the way, you will traverse foothills, pass by clear tarns, expansive moss swamps, and steep rock walls. The Pouakai Track is an excellent choice for a day hike.
Lake Gunn
Lake Gunn
Fiordland National Park boasts New Zealand's most magnificent scenery, despite the attention Milford Sound receives. The Lake Gunn Nature Walk is just an hour's drive from Te Anau, featuring moss-covered beech forests and surrounding lakeside mountains. The trail includes shortcuts to swimming, fishing, and other recreational spots.
