Lake Wakatipu
Photo credit
David Tip
Lake Wakatipu
,
New Zealand

Tour Lake Wakatipu

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New Zealand

Inspiring you to tour Lake Wakatipu and immerse yourself in its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and share your authentic travel experiences

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Lake Wakatipu is located in the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand. The lake is renowned for its distinctive 'S' shape, stretching approximately 80 kilometers, making it the country's third-largest lake. Nestled within the Southern Alps, it is flanked by majestic mountains such as the Remarkables and Mount Earnslaw, providing a dramatic and picturesque landscape.

The climate around Lake Wakatipu is temperate with marked seasonal variations. Summers (December to February) are warm with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C, while winters (June to August) are cold, often dropping below freezing, especially at higher altitudes. The lake itself is situated at 310 meters above sea level, with the surrounding mountains rising significantly higher, impacting the local climate and creating diverse vegetation zones.

The region's flora includes native beech forests and alpine tussock grasslands. Unique plant species like the Mount Cook buttercup can be found in higher altitudes. The fauna is equally diverse, with the area being home to native bird species such as the kea and the rare mohua (yellowhead). The lake's waters host brown and rainbow trout, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.

Lake Wakatipu offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Hiking and walking trails like the Queenstown Hill Time Walk and the Ben Lomond Track are popular for their stunning views. Water-based activities such as boating, kayaking, and fishing are also prevalent. In winter, the nearby ski resorts like Coronet Peak and the Remarkables attract skiers and snowboarders.

The lake holds significant cultural importance for the indigenous Maori people, with many legends and myths associated with its formation and the surrounding landscapes. The town of Queenstown, located on the lake's shores, is known for its vibrant tourism industry and hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Efforts to conserve Lake Wakatipu's natural beauty include the management of invasive species and habitat restoration projects. The Department of Conservation and local organizations work together to ensure sustainable tourism and the preservation of the lake's ecosystems. Challenges include balancing tourism growth with environmental protection and managing the impacts of climate change.

Visitors to Lake Wakatipu are often struck by its serene beauty and the contrasting landscapes of deep blue waters against rugged mountains. Memorable experiences include scenic cruises on the lake, panoramic views from the Skyline Queenstown gondola, and exploring the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown nearby. Tips for visitors include dressing in layers due to changing weather and planning activities around the seasonal variations for the best experience.

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Best time to tour Lake Wakatipu

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Geeky Facts about Lake Wakatipu

Fact 1

The lake's 'S' shape is due to tectonic forces from an ancient glacier.

Fact 2

Lake Wakatipu has a seiche, a standing wave phenomenon causing the water level to rise and fall about 10 cm every 25 minutes.

Fact 3

The lake reaches depths of up to 380 meters, making it New Zealand's third deepest lake.

Tours in Lake Wakatipu

Trekking in New Zealand
Trekking in New Zealand
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New Zealand
Tour type
Tour Type
Walking, Hiking & Trekking
Activity level
Activiy Level
3 - Average

19 days from

£7,699 / person

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Southern Spirit
Southern Spirit
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New Zealand
Tour type
Tour Type
Small Group
Activity level
Activiy Level
2 - Light

14 days from

£3,815 / person

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Auckland to Christchurch - 16 days
Auckland to Christchurch - 16 days
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New Zealand
Tour type
Tour Type
Small Group
Activity level
Activiy Level
2 - Light

16 days from

£4,895 / person

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Queenstown Southern Loop
Queenstown Southern Loop
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New Zealand
Tour type
Tour Type
Adventure Tours
Activity level
Activiy Level
3 - Average

6 days from

£1,830 / person

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New Zealand Winter Adventure
New Zealand Winter Adventure
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New Zealand
Tour type
Tour Type
Active
Activity level
Activiy Level
3 - Average

14 days from

£5,231 / person

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Grand Tour of New Zealand with Australia
Grand Tour of New Zealand with Australia
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New Zealand & Australia
Tour type
Tour Type
Small Group
Activity level
Activiy Level
2 - Light

26 days from

£7,299 / person

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Wellington & South Island - 14 days
Wellington & South Island - 14 days
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New Zealand
Tour type
Tour Type
Small Group
Activity level
Activiy Level
2 - Light

14 days from

£4,375 / person

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Kia Ora New Zealand
Kia Ora New Zealand
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New Zealand
Tour type
Tour Type
Small Group
Activity level
Activiy Level
2 - Light

17 days from

£4,895 / person

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Iconic Australia and New Zealand
Iconic Australia and New Zealand
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Australia & New Zealand
Tour type
Tour Type
Active
Activity level
Activiy Level
2 - Light

23 days from

£8,599 / person

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South Island Explorer - 12 days
South Island Explorer - 12 days
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New Zealand
Tour type
Tour Type
Small Group
Activity level
Activiy Level
2 - Light

12 days from

£4,295 / person

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Walking in New Zealand
Walking in New Zealand
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New Zealand
Tour type
Tour Type
Walking, Hiking & Trekking
Activity level
Activiy Level
2 - Light

19 days from

£5,699 / person

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Bucket List New Zealand & Australia
Bucket List New Zealand & Australia
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New Zealand & Australia
Tour type
Tour Type
Adventure Tours
Activity level
Activiy Level
2 - Light

19 days from

£6,900 / person

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Premium New Zealand South Island
Premium New Zealand South Island
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New Zealand
Tour type
Tour Type
Coach Tours
Activity level
Activiy Level
2 - Light

10 days from

£4,270 / person

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New Zealand South Island Adventure
New Zealand South Island Adventure
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New Zealand
Tour type
Tour Type
Active
Activity level
Activiy Level
3 - Average

12 days from

£3,425 / person

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Ultimate South Island Adventure
Ultimate South Island Adventure
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New Zealand
Tour type
Tour Type
Walking, Hiking & Trekking
Activity level
Activiy Level
4 - Demanding

14 days from

£6,554 / person

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Big Cats
Big Cats
Big Cats
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing
Canyoning
Canyoning
Canyoning
Cruise
Cruise
Cruise
Culture
Culture
Culture
Cycling
Cycling
Cycling
Festivals
Festivals
Festivals
Food & Drink
Food & Drink
Food & Drink
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Kayaking
Kayaking
Kayaking
Mountaineering
Mountaineering
Mountaineering
Natural Wonders
Natural Wonders
Natural Wonders
Photography
Photography
Photography
Polar
Polar
Polar
Primates
Primates
Primates
Rafting
Rafting
Rafting
Rail
Rail
Rail
Safari
Safari
Safari
Sailing
Sailing
Sailing
Skiing
Skiing
Skiing
Snorkelling
Snorkelling
Snorkelling
Whale Watching
Whale Watching
Whale Watching
Wildlife
Wildlife
Wildlife
Winter Sports
Winter Sports
Winter Sports
Zip Lining
Zip Lining
Zip Lining

Stories from the Lake Wakatipu

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Countries that cover Lake Wakatipu

Wildlife

Big Cats
Big Cats
Big Cats
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Canoeing
Canoeing
Canoeing
Canyoning
Canyoning
Canyoning
Cruise
Cruise
Cruise
Culture
Culture
Culture
Cycling
Cycling
Cycling
Festivals
Festivals
Festivals
Food & Drink
Food & Drink
Food & Drink
Hiking
Hiking
Hiking
Kayaking
Kayaking
Kayaking
Mountaineering
Mountaineering
Mountaineering
Natural Wonders
Natural Wonders
Natural Wonders
Photography
Photography
Photography
Polar
Polar
Polar
Primates
Primates
Primates
Rafting
Rafting
Rafting
Rail
Rail
Rail
Safari
Safari
Safari
Sailing
Sailing
Sailing
Skiing
Skiing
Skiing
Snorkelling
Snorkelling
Snorkelling
Whale Watching
Whale Watching
Whale Watching
Wildlife
Wildlife
Wildlife
Winter Sports
Winter Sports
Winter Sports
Zip Lining
Zip Lining
Zip Lining
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