Shaped like a lightning bolt, New Zealand’s third-largest lake is a sumptuous natural landmark enveloped by dramatic mountains and beautiful walking trails.
Located in the South Island of New Zealand, in the Southwest corner of Otago Region, Lake Wakatipu rests under the shadow of alluring mountain peaks and dense alpine forests. With a reversed “N” shape, it stretches for 5 kilometres at its widest points and has a total length of 80 kilometres. Blanketing an area of 291 Km2, it is the third-largest lake in New Zealand, and with a maximum depth of about 380 meters, its floor lies even below sea level.
The Legend of Lake Wakatipu
The eccentric shape of the Wakatipu Lake was carved out by a glacier more than 15,000 years ago during the last ice age. But, a celebrated Māoi legend states otherwise.
As per the legend, Manata, the daughter of a local chief, was forbidden from marrying the love of her life, a man named Matakauri. One night, Mantana was kidnapped by a ferocious giant from the mountains named Matau. Worried about his daughter, the chief promised to marry Manata to the man who would rescue her.
Matakauri, under the shelter of midnight darkness, snuck into Matau’s den and rescued Manata, and the two tie the knots at last. But Matakauri was apprehensive about Matau trying to threaten his wife and tribe again, so he fares back into the mountains once again in hunt of the giant.
When he found Matau slumbering, he set him on fire, burning him where he lay. The fire burnt a deep gash into the earth while the snow on surrounding mountains to melt – forming Lake Wakatipu.
Six Activities That You Must Do at Lake Wakatipu
Being surrounded by mountains, Lake Wakatipu is eminent for its scenic beauty which makes it a prominent vicinity for adventure tourism. Here are six things that you must do at the lake for a complete Wakatipu experience:
The Scenic Cruise of Spirit of Queenstown
The Spirit of Queenstown cruise is one of the most majestic experiences at Lake Wakatipu. The cruise from Queenstown to Glenorchy takes you along the western shores of the lake while delivering one of the most stunning views of the Southern Alps. You can relish the sheer elegance of the lake while sipping on your martini on the deck.
The Adrenalin Packed KJet
With high speed, sharp turns, 360-degree spins, and some of the best views, the KJet jet boat experience at Lake Wakatipu is a perfect mix of madness amidst calm filled with thrill and adventure. It takes you along the lake and two nearby rivers named Shotover and Kawaru. The experienced local guides in the boat not only gets your heart pounding but also enlightens you with some interesting facts and historical stories of the place.
Queenstown Paraflight
If you’re an adventure enthusiast too, you probably love being tied behind a high-speed boat along with a parachute. Queenstown Paraflight gives you an exceptional parasailing experience with an exquisite view of the entire bay area. Tandem and triple parasailing options are also available so you can share the experience with your friends.
Hydro Attack
Hydro Attack is one of the most unique and fun-packed activities at Lake Wakatipu. It has you shooting over the lake at more than 80Kmph in an enclosed ski-like machine before it dives underwater and jumps out of it again like a shark. This experience serves you with an extraordinary view from both over and under the water.
Paddle Boarding
Paddle Boarding is a widely loved activity, and there’s no better place than Wakatipu to experience it. Paddle Boarding is a fun way to explore the lake and cool off while soaking up some sun and enjoy the calm water of Lake Wakatipu.
Experience the Lake with a Heartbeat
Lake Wakatipu experiences an unusual phenomenon called a seiche or “standing wave” which causes the water to rise and fall about 20 centimetres every 27 minutes or so. But the Maori legend links this phenomenon to Matau’s heartbeat which wasn’t destroyed and still prevails beneath the lake causing the rise and fall of water. The best place to observe this phenomenon is at Bob’s Cove.
How to Get to Lake Wakatipu
There are three towns located at the shore of Lake Wakatipu – Glenorchy in the north, Kingston in the south, and Queenstown near the centre of the lake on its eastern edge.
To reach Lake Wakatipu, you can fly to Queensland and then drive to the lake. You can either drive to the north towards Glenorchy or in the opposite direction towards Kingston.
The lake is viewable throughout the journey, and you can also visit some remarkable tourist attractions in the way like the ski fields.
Places to Visit Near Lake Wakatipu
Here are some places that you can visit near Lake Wakatipu for much versatile experience:
- Bob’s Peak and Skyline Gondola: This is one of the highest peaks in Queensland, and it rewards you with a breathtaking view of the lake when you reach the top.
- Nevis Valley: Give your inner adventurer a treat at Nevis Valley by indulging in activities like trail biking, bungee jumping, horse trekking, and a lot more.
- Kiwi Birdlife Park: This wildlife sanctuary in Queensland features more than 20 species of native New Zealand wildlife. Moreover, it offers guaranteed kiwi viewing and kiwi feeding experience.
- Shotover River: The Shotover River is a highly celebrated destination for thrill-seekers. Known for its large rapids and spectacular ambience, it is the perfect spot for adventures like white water rafting and jet boat cruises.
