Lake Benmore

Lake Benmore, the largest man-made lake in New Zealand, sprawls across the Waitaki Valley with a surreal turquoise hue that looks almost tropical against the stark, dry hills of the Mackenzie Basin. Created by the Benmore Dam in the 1960s, this vast body of water is a playground for water sports, fishing, and scenic drives, offering a serene contrast to the rugged landscapes of the West Coast hinterland.

Highlights & What to See

• Benmore Dam – One of the largest earth dams in the Southern Hemisphere; walk across the crest for panoramic views of the lake and the braided Waitaki River below.
• Lake Benmore Scenic Lookout – A short detour off State Highway 83 rewards you with a classic postcard view: deep blue water, distant snow-capped peaks, and the dam's spillway.
• Water Sports & Fishing – The lake is ideal for kayaking, sailing, and jet-boating. Anglers come for trophy-sized brown trout and salmon.
• Aviemore Hydro Station – A smaller dam just downstream, with a charming picnic area and walking tracks along the lake edge.
• Ōhau A, B & C Hydro Stations – Part of the same hydro scheme, these are interesting stops for engineering buffs, set against dramatic mountain backdrops.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can take in the main viewpoints and a short walk in half a day, but to fully appreciate the lake's recreational offerings, plan for a full day. If you're driving the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, allow an extra hour or two to explore the lake's shoreline and dam. Combine with a visit to the nearby Ōmarama hot pools for a relaxing end to the day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Ōmarama – Famous for its clay cliffs and hot pools, just a 15-minute drive west.
• Twizel – A gateway town to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, 30 minutes north.
• Lake Pukaki & Lake Tekapo – Iconic turquoise lakes with stunning mountain views, about 45 minutes to an hour away.
• Oamaru – Historic Victorian precinct and penguin colonies, an hour east.
• Mount Cook Village – New Zealand's highest peak and premier alpine hiking, 1.5 hours north.

Please check official sources for current details.