There are 3,820 lakes in New Zealand; some volcanic crater lakes, some alpine, glacier-fed lakes, and all utterly fascinating. To save time, here are the 10 largest lakes to add to your travel itinerary.
1. Lake Taupo
Lake Taupo is New Zealand’s largest lake and sits in the middle (almost) of the North Island. Not only is this lake aesthetically beautiful but it is also full of adventure and water activities making it a hub for travellers and locals looking for a great weekend outdoors. There’s plenty of geothermal activity in the Taupo area which is another big draw card.
2. Lake Te Anau
Lake Te Anau is in the South Island of New Zealand and the town of Te Anau is the gateway to incredible attractions like The Kepler Track, Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. The lake has three arms that stretch into Fiordland, an incredibly beautiful National Park. Enjoy walking tracks, boat trips and fishing on and around Lake Te Anau, one of the most beautiful New Zealand lakes.
3. Lake Wakatipu
This is the body of water in the middle of the famous adventure town, Queenstown. Fringing a town like this, Lake Wakatipu is well photographed and frequently visited, with a number of water and boating activities available. As far as New Zealand lakes go, Lake Wakatipu is one that you can’t miss!
Check out our Queenstown Travel Guide.
4. Lake Ellesmere (Te Waihora)
Head to the Canterbury Region on the East Coast of the South Island to check out Lake Ellesmere. A shallow body of water right on the coast and only separated from the Pacific Ocean by a long, narrow sand spit – Lake Ellesmere is actually a broad. It’s also an important wildlife area.
5. Lake Wanaka
Lake Wanaka is a picturesque spot, with neighbouring mountains and rocky shores. It’s more than 300m deep so a chilly place to swim, but often a great surface for kayaking, paddleboarding and boating. Lake Wanaka is popular in summer and winter, with nearby ski resort Treble Cone bringing large numbers to this Otago region attraction.
6. Lake Manapouri
Lake Manapouri and the peaceful township of Manapouri are in the Fiordland National Park. A lovely South Island lake with small islands and secluded coves; there is plenty to explore. Lake Manapouri is the gateway to Doubtful Sound trips and the largest underground power station in the southern hemisphere.
7. Lake Hawea
Near hot spots like Queenstown and Wanaka, Lake Hawea offers a more peaceful vibe and real South Island lake getaway. Holidaymakers flock to this lake in summer and winter, with mountain views in every direction and plenty of outdoor activities.
8. Lake Pukaki
In the heart of the Mackenzie Region, Lake Pukaki has to be one of the bluest lakes in New Zealand! It’s milky, baby blue appearance is consistent year round, and most prominent on a sunny day. At the foot of Aoraki Mt Cook, Lake Pukaki is frequented by people travelling between Queenstown and Christchurch and to the Mt Cook National Park. In a region with a lot of beautiful natural attractions, Lake Pukaki can claim the title of largest lake in the area.
9. Lake Tekapo
Equally as spectacular as it’s neighbour, Lake Pukaki, Lake Tekapo is a vibrant blue lake surrounded by mountainous landscapes. The town of Lake Tekapo has many draw cards, including the Dark Sky Reserve where stargazing is at its best.
10. Lake Rotorua
Lake Rotorua is the second largest lake in the North Island and has a small island named Mokoia Island in its centre. At its shore is the town of Rotorua and just over an hours drive away is Lake Taupo. Exploring the Bay of Plenty is a must-do, offering beautiful scenery including two of New Zealand’s largest lakes.
