Waitaki Hydro Lakes

The Waitaki Hydro Lakes are a chain of man-made lakes stretching across the dry, dramatic landscapes of North Otago and South Canterbury. Created by a series of hydroelectric dams on the Waitaki River, these shimmering blue reservoirs—including Lake Waitaki, Lake Aviemore, and Lake Benmore—offer a starkly beautiful contrast to the surrounding golden tussock hills and rugged rock formations. This is a region where engineering meets raw nature, and the result is a playground for water sports, fishing, and scenic drives.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Benmore – New Zealand’s largest man-made lake, perfect for sailing, kayaking, and trout fishing. Don’t miss the dramatic Benmore Dam, one of the country’s largest earth dams.
• Lake Aviemore – A smaller, quieter lake known for its striking turquoise water and the historic Aviemore Dam. Great for a peaceful picnic or a short walk along the shoreline.
• Lake Waitaki – The oldest of the hydro lakes, with a charming early 20th-century dam. The surrounding limestone cliffs and rock formations are a photographer’s dream.
• Waitaki Valley Scenic Drive – State Highway 83 winds alongside the lakes, offering continuous views of water, mountains, and the occasional braided river. Stop at the lookout points for panoramic photos.
• Omarama – A small town at the southern end of the lakes, famous for its clay cliffs and gliding (soaring) opportunities. The Omarama Hot Tubs are a perfect après-adventure soak.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for a full day to drive the length of the Waitaki Hydro Lakes, with stops at each dam and lake. If you want to kayak or fish, add an extra half-day. Most visitors combine the lakes with a detour from the main highway between Christchurch and Queenstown, so a day trip is ideal, but spending a night in Omarama or Twizel allows for a more relaxed pace.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Twizel – A gateway town to Mount Cook National Park and the Mackenzie Basin, with excellent dining and the famous salmon farms.
• Mount Cook National Park – Just an hour’s drive away, home to New Zealand’s highest peak and the stunning Hooker Valley Track.
• Oamaru – A historic town with Victorian architecture, a penguin colony, and a vibrant arts scene, about 90 minutes east.
• Mackenzie Basin – The vast, high-country landscape of braided rivers and golden tussock, including Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki.
• Kurow – A small town with a heritage railway and the famous Kurow Hotel, a good lunch stop on the lake circuit.

Please check official sources for current details.