Nelson Lakes © Sam Glover
Lakes are our inland aquatic playgrounds
Stunning lakes can be found all over the country, and no two are the same. Some have incredible colours, some offer great fishing, some are deep, mysterious and serene while others are warm and shallow. Imagine a lake fringed with sparkling white sand and surrounded by native forest or wetlands providing a home for a variety of native birds, or a lake nestled among alpine scenery with snow-capped mountains reflected in its waters... Sounds like the perfect holiday spot to me!
There's no doubt about it, lakes are our inland aquatic playgrounds. Make sure you pack your togs, because swimming, boating, kayaking, windsurfing and diving, among others, are all popular lake activities. Don't forget your fishing rod either - trout will most likely be on the menu here! Or if it's a laid-back holiday you're after, simply laze on the shore with cool water gently lapping at your feet and take the time to appreciate your surroundings.
Suggested Links
Find a lake near you, Popular lake activities.
Kepler Track, Te Anau © Simon Rouse
Camping
Camping is one of the best forms of accommodation at our lakes. Round up the family, grab the tent and whatever watercraft you can get your hands on, and head for a lake - complete relaxation is only a drive away. If spending a week in a tent with the kids doesn't appeal, lakes are also ideal settings for luxurious, secluded holidays among some of our best scenery.
Suggested Links
Find a campground near your favourite lake.
Some of New Zealand's popular lake holiday spots
- Kai Iwi Lakes
- Lake Rotorua
- Lake Taupo
- Lake Te Anau
- Lake Wakatipu
- Lake Tekapo
- Lake Manapouri
- Lake Wanaka
- Lake Waikaremoana
- Lake Hawea
