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Best Lakes in the South Island

The South Island’s lakes are world-famous: turquoise water, mountain backdrops, and easy access from the main road trip route. Here are the best, with drive links so you can plan your route.

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Updated for 2026

In this guide

The list

1

Lake Tekapo

Canterbury

Turquoise water, Church of the Good Shepherd, and Dark Sky stargazing. Iconic first stop on the classic loop.

Best time: Year-round. Night for stars.

  • Church and lakefront
  • Mt John optional
  • Holiday parks nearby
Best drive Read destination guide
2

Lake Pukaki

Canterbury

Turquoise lake with Aoraki/Mount Cook at the far end. Drive alongside to Mount Cook Village.

Best time: Clear days.

  • Multiple lookouts
  • On Tekapo–Mount Cook road
  • No swimming: glacial cold
Best drive Read destination guide
3

Lake Wanaka

Otago

That Wanaka Tree, waterfront walks, and mountain views. Gateway to Roys Peak and Mount Aspiring.

Best time: Year-round. Autumn stunning.

  • That Wanaka Tree
  • Town facilities
  • Roys Peak track
Best drive Read destination guide
4

Lake Wakatipu

Otago

Queenstown’s lake; long and dramatic. Scenic drive to Glenorchy; Remarkables on the far shore.

Best time: Year-round.

  • Queenstown waterfront
  • Glenorchy drive
  • Cruises and kayak
Best drive Read destination guide
5

Lake Hawea

Otago

Next to Wanaka; quieter. Same turquoise and mountains; fewer crowds.

Best time: Year-round.

  • On Wanaka–Haast route
  • Scenic drive
  • Short walks
Best drive Read destination guide
6

Lake Matheson

West Coast

Reflection lake near Fox Glacier. Famous for mirror views of Aoraki and Tasman.

Best time: Still mornings.

  • 1.5 hr loop
  • Sunrise popular
  • Near Fox Glacier
Best drive Read destination guide
7

Lake Te Anau

Southland

Gateway to Milford Sound. Town on the lake; cruises and kayak; glowworm caves nearby.

Best time: Year-round.

  • Base for Milford
  • Glowworm caves
  • Holiday parks
Best drive Read destination guide
8

Lake Dunstan (Cromwell)

Otago

Man-made lake; fruit country and vineyards. Quieter than Wanaka/Queenstown.

Best time: Summer and autumn.

  • Cromwell area
  • Fruit stalls
  • Central Otago
Best drive
9

Lake Pukaki (again as standalone)

Canterbury

Worth a second mention: the drive along its shore is one of the South Island’s best lake experiences.

Best time: Clear days.

  • Pull-offs for photos
  • Mount Cook in frame
  • No camping at lake edge; use designated areas
Best drive Read destination guide

Why the lakes are special

Glacial flour gives many South Island lakes their turquoise colour. They’re often right beside the highway, easy to enjoy from lookouts, short walks, or the shore. Respect the environment and other visitors.

Best time to visit

Year-round. Clear days show the colour best. March and April often have great light and fewer crowds. Winter can bring snow to the surrounding peaks.

Plan your trip

Itineraries, camping guides, and drive routes to help you plan.

Camping resources Camping Freedom camping NZ South Island itinerary Best road trip route Christchurch → Lake Tekapo Lake Tekapo → Aoraki/Mount Cook Lake Tekapo → Wanaka Wanaka → Queenstown Queenstown → Glenorchy Te Anau → Milford Sound Lake Tekapo Aoraki Mount Cook Wanaka Queenstown Milford Sound Franz Josef

Frequently asked questions

What is the most beautiful lake in the South Island?
Lake Tekapo, Pukaki, Wanaka, and Wakatipu are often cited. Beauty is subjective; all are stunning. Pukaki with Mount Cook is especially iconic.
Why are South Island lakes turquoise?
Glacial flour (fine rock particles) in the water reflects light and creates the turquoise colour.
Can you swim in the South Island lakes?
Some people swim in summer; water is often cold. Choose safe spots, respect signage, and never swim alone.
Which lake is best for photos?
Lake Pukaki (Mount Cook), Lake Tekapo (church), Lake Wanaka (That Wanaka Tree), and Lake Matheson (reflections) are among the best.

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