It is fed by a short upper segment of the Sabine, which in turn is fed by underground seepage through the landslide debris impounding the much larger Lake Constance. It's also a top picnic spot, with lovely flat banks surrounding the water. Visitors can sit in the naturally occurring, almost perfectly human-sized bath holes. How Did They Do That? Its beautiful sandy beaches and deep blue waters can make you feel like you are on a pacific island, not deep in the south of New Zealand. Blue Lake (Rotomairewhenua in Māori) is a small fresh water lake in Nelson Lakes National Park, in the northern reaches of New Zealand's Southern Alps. Walk across the road for a swim in Lake Tikitapu or take a … The Blue Lake beaches and surrounding grassed areas are all popular for summer picnics. Now you can rent the beach house. We also use cookies to show you the best of New Zealand on other platforms. There is no swimming course that has repeatedly delivered such calm conditions combined with the crystal clear purity that The Blue Lake consistently offers. You might be able to swim 2-3 weeks of the year if you are lucky. This article was first published in September 2019, and was last updated in March 2020. Nestled in a secluded bay of Lake Tarawera is the little-known Hot Water Beach campsite. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Swimming, fishing, lakeside picnicking, paddle boarding and other water sports are the obvious activities, so hook up the boat and your floaties and head to Rotorua. Follow the boardwalk to a viewing platform over the Blue Pools then cross the Blue Pools bridge for great views up the river gorge. Keep browsing if you're happy with this. The blue waters and native forest of Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) makes the Generation Homes Legend of the Lake a very special experience for swimmers and spectators at our only fresh water event in the Series. https://thetrustedtraveller.com/lakes-on-new-zealands-south-island The blue waters and native forest of Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) makes the Generation Homes Legend of the Lake a very special experience for swimmers and spectators at our only fresh water event in the Series. Click the link below for more information and detailed maps about this hike. A word of warning, this area is known for theft. Follow the locals' footprints to where geothermal hot springs burst out of the bush and trickle into the river. The end reveals a grassed area where vehicles can park. The pools’ surroundings have also been built up a little recently. Consisting of five different swim events, the Legend of the Lake provides a swim event for all ages and abilities: ‘I’m Going Long’ - a 3.5km swim around the perimeter of the lake. Rotorua – March 20, 2021. To launch into the circuit around Blue Lake, take the path east along the beach. Blue Lake is roughly boomerang shaped, running north then northwest, with each arm of the lake stretching some 200 metres (700 ft). Swimming in Lake Manapouri. Not anymore. Getting there: the pools are a mere 10-minute drive from Taupo's city centre, just off Spa Road. Wander through beautiful native forests and over a swing bridge to experience the pristine waters of Makarora River's Blue Pools. The nearest toilet facilities are at the Blue Pools car park. SWIM 2 KM. No, you can't swim in the Blue Lake. Jet ski’s and boats are not permitted to operate in this area as the lake is The shore hosts campgrounds and huts, for those who want to take things in for a little while longer. Getting there: Lake Mackenzie is a little tricky to reach, but is one to make hikers happy. Lake Manapouri (connected to Lake Te Anau by the mighty Waiau River) is popularly described as the most beautiful lake in New Zealand. Rotorua holds some of New Zealand's most renowned, including this sensational spot. James Wallis 672 views. Getting there: for those with time up their sleeves, pack your tent and trek the 4-5 hour lakeside track to Hot Water Beach campsite. You might also like: Make a splash: the best places for outdoor city swimming. Frasers Beach right next to the village is a lovely family beach. We’ve picked eight of the Land of the Long White Cloud’s best wild swimming spots for you to take the plunge in. In a short distance, the track turns south and joins Tarawera Road, which you will walk along for 450 meters. Generation Homes Legend of the Lake – 20 March 2021. The remoteness of this location can certainly pay dividends. Rotorua is home to over 15 beautiful Lakes and Blue Lake TOP 10 is ideally located to take advantage of them! Whether it’s at the main beach in Queenstown itself, or jumping of the Glenorchy Pier an hour down the road, the waters reward a refreshing swim. See our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy to understand how you can manage cookies. To view cookie details and how to opt-out, please see our Cookie Policy. Pori Pori is a waterhole surrounded by tall rock formations and a lush forest bursting with ferns. Getting there: Kerosene Creek is 57km north of Taupo and 28km south of Rotorua on State Highway 5. Dig your own hole in the lakeside sand to bathe in, or take a short (signposted) walk away from the lake to find a piping hot natural spa carved out of the earth. Way too cold. The drive from Picton to Nelson is a necessary evil as you journey between North and South islands. I've swum in the Blue Lake in the winter wearing a wetsuit (training for … An easy walk that starts at the car park on State Highway 6 near Makarora just north of Muddy Creek and leads through silver beech/tahina to a swing-bridge overlooking the pools at the mouth of Blue River. The visitor centre in Makarora is no longer available. You may even get the place to yourself! The beach is great for families and young children and there is also a pontoon that can be enjoyed as well. Know that the first glimpse of water is not the swimming spot itself. New Zealand rthefish. The Blue Lake is drained by the west branch of the Sabine River, which is part of the Buller River system. A lake swim in Rotorua's beautiful Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake), the Legend of the Lake is the newest addition to the New Zealand Ocean Swim Series. (a constant 38°C/100°F) – it is a wonderful way to relax and unwind. Contact the Awarua/Haast or Tititea/Mount Aspiring National Park visitor centres for visitor information, including trip planning, and track and weather updates for this region. Though it was closed to the public some time ago due to an algae problem. Facilities include toilets, rubbish bins, a children's playground, barbecues and swimming areas. Let us show you the best of New Zealand on other platforms by selecting 'On' and allowing us to share data from your visit(s) with our partners. There is a new bridge, walkway, and even changing rooms. Find things to do, what's on and where to stay. Contemplating the Askja Crater and Lake, too cold to swim in apparently. You might also like: Australia’s top 10 wild swimming spots. The swim distance varies from 2km up to 5km – check event pages for distances in each location. You can also soak your worries away at one of two secluded thermal hot water beaches accessible only by boat, luxury catamaran, floatplane or hike. Kerosene Creek is where geothermal energy heats what would otherwise be a cold creek, ideal for bathing and rejuvenating. Generation Homes Legend of the Lake. The Coromandel Peninsula’s Hot Water Beach draws much attention, but that’s not the only hot water beach worth checking out. Free hot pools? Few know that turning away from the coast reveals one of the best-kept secrets in the bay, just outside of charming Tauranga. But there is the "Little Blue Lake" about 10 minutes out of Mount Gambier at Mount Schank. Located in the South Island's Fiordland National Park (the same region where the famed Milford Sound is), the lake is one of the country's most naturally opulent areas. There is something about Blue Lake in New Zealand’s Nelson Lakes National Park that sets it apart from every other lake in the world — something so special about Blue Lake that human beings are not allowed to swim in it, and the local Maori tribes have traditionally considered its … Sit back and relax, with the view of a petite 2m waterfall and a backdrop of the North Island bush. Check out what other travelers say about New Zealand on TripAdvisor. You might also like: Where to cool off with an unforgettable wild swim. All rights reserved. Follow the boardwalk to a viewing platform over the Blue Pools then cross the Blue Pools bridge for great views up the river gorge. Wishbone Falls – named for its appearance, a waterfall that cascades down a steep, grassy rock face and breaks into two streams – welcomes you at the entry of Mount Aspiring National Park, about an hour-and-a-half drive from the town of Wanaka. Since water temperatures are too low ranging from 5 to 8 °C, it is impossible anyway. Along the way look out for large trout feeding in the pools and listen for the threatened yellowhead/mohua, which can often be heard in the canopy. The Bay of Plenty is aptly named. Even just a few years ago, the Blue Spring was a bit of a local’s secret, but thanks to the magic of the internet the secret is now out and what was only visited by 10,000 people a year can now have up to 9000 visitors in a month in high summer – many of whom were leaping in. Can you Swim in the Blue Spring Putaruru? Otherwise, do what many of the locals do and ‘pop a manu’ – slang for a water bomb. Before setting out, you can lounge on this sandy strip or slip into the lake for a swim. This spot is also a little famous, holding some Middle Earth magic. Planes are greeted with monstrous mountains either side of them. The walk starts at a carpark 8km from the town of Makarora along the Haast Highway (SH6). Pori Pori, Lower Kaimai. Tikitapu, the Blue Lake, is the closest to Rotorua and its clear, clean crystal blue water is popular with boaties, swimmers and water skiers. Yet it's still a popular place for swimming in the summer… can't say it's for me, I prefer Lake Tarawera as it's a whole lot warmer. Peter Jackson himself chose this bridge as a filming location for parts of The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. However, Pelorus Bridge is the perfect way to break up the journey. If you are completing the Travers-Sabine Circuit, then Blue Lake is definitely worth the 6-7 hour return side trip from West Sabine Hut. Its waters are cold, ranging from 5 to 8 °C (41 to 46 °F). Lake Mackenzie itself is about a 4-6 hour walk from the Divide, Milford Road (reached via Te Anau). Water from the Blue Spring flows at a rate of 42 cubic metres per minute and could fill a 6 lane (25 metre) swimming pool in around 12 minutes. Yes it is. Get more travel inspiration, tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox with our weekly newsletter. If you have ever considered entering a longer open water swim, the Banana Boat New Zealand Ocean Swim Series provides an ideal and safe opportunity to do this. There are shorted circuits, but if you have the time it's well worth the extra time, although it can be a bit muddy after heavy rain or snow. (Blue Lake). West Coast and further south you can experience the feel swim with the dolphins and penguins and seals are around most coasts of NZ. The Blue Spring walk takes about one and a half hours each way, starting from Whites Road (State Highway 28), near Putaruru. Along the way look out for large trout feeding in the pools and listen for the threatened yellowhead/mohua, which can often be heard in the canopy. Lake Quill. Getting there: park at the Pelorus Bridge picnic area and walk five minutes down the well signposted gravel path to the river. In addition to above, we use other cookies and analytics to provide a better site experience. 3:21. Getting there: Pori Pori is found just off State Highway 29 on Poripori Road. Keep valuables well hidden or take them with you. Where to cool off with an unforgettable wild swim, Make a splash: the best places for outdoor city swimming, Best tips for free camping in New Zealand, Nature, surf & culture: 7 things to do in New Zealand’s Northland, 6 of the best destinations for yoga travel, 10 wellness retreats to recharge post-pandemic, Mexico has 11 beautiful new “magical towns" to explore, Gripped by The Undoing? People have been swimmimng there for years. Cross the elevated section of the Wairoa River and trace other people’s footsteps through the blackberry shrubs and native grass known as toi toi. If you’ve seen it, it’s where the dwarves are seen floating down the river in barrels. Swimming in Lake Ohau, New Zealand - Duration: 3:21. This iconic locale is found near the start of the mighty Waikato River – the longest river in New Zealand. Walk down for 10 minutes to reach the foot of the falls. I can unsubscribe any time using the unsubscribe link at the end of all emails. A sign gesturing to the falls leads the way to a track. Hang closer to the springs for hotter water. Most thoughts of the abundant region will dart from the golden beaches of Whakatane, to the majestic seaside icon that is Mt Maunganui. The official website for Rotorua, New Zealand. The beach directly over from Blue Lake TOP 10 Holiday Park Rotorua is very safe for swimming with a gentle grade into a clear, freshwater lake. The water temperature is a constant 11 degrees celsius throughout the year. It proves that Blue Lake definitely boasts the clearest waters found in … Getting there: flying into Queenstown is an experience not to be missed, with one of the world’s most extravagant landings through a grand valley. This then filled up with water to creating the deep blue lake Öskjuvatn. Age eligibility is from 12 years old and over. We use cookies to provide you with a better experience on this site. At the base of the falls sits an idyllic pool; a natural gem made for days pottering around in the sun. Keep your eye out for the turnoff at Old Waiotapu Road. Charming Queenstown has long been heralded as one of New Zealand’s most visited destinations, and rightly so. Here you can swim or soak in a natural thermal rock pools and picnic on this secluded and beautiful part of New Zealand. It's a small village stuck in time, with it's blue lake surrounded by the mountains in the distance. Under the bridge flows a quaint, calm yet stunning swimming hole; crystalline water surrounded by thriving forest. Tikitapu, The Blue Lake is without exception the premier swimming venue of any triathlon in Australasia. One of the many stunning aspects of Fiordland National Park, Lake Quill funnels into the … The walk of 1.5 hour is a beautiful way to explore the place. The Blue and Green Lakes (Lake Tikitapu and Lake Rotokakahi) Lakes of stunning beauty, these smaller lakes nestle among steep, green hills, very close to Lake Tarawera. Maximise your day and circumnavigate the Lake in our long swim or perhaps take on a swim plus the Amphibian to really … Blue Lake from carpark in between the lakes If you're out there for swimming... the water is freezing. Getting there: Lake Tarawera is located 18 kilometers (18 Miles) to the east of Rotorua (North Island) and five kilometers (5 miles) from Mt Tarawera. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. You might also like: Europe’s best wild swimming. Follow Wanaka-Mount Aspiring Road for 49 kilometres from Wanaka, the falls are visible from the road. © 2020 Lonely Planet. They’re a dream for most travellers, a luxury that many countries envy and others often charge to access. Read our insider tips to get the most out of visiting Rotorua. Stroll through beech/tawhero forest to a swing bridge that crosses the Makarora River. Its heart is the endearing deep blue that is Lake Wakatipu, whose year-round icy cold waters make for a great way to perk up in the morning, or cool off after a gruelling hike. Dotted around the mammoth 291-sq-km lake are petite towns, graced with mesmerising views of the glistening lake bordered by grand mountains. Lake Mackenzie’s emerald body of water is surrounded by an alpine circle, where snow-kissed mountains round off a breathtaking scene. The Bay of Plenty is aptly named. I want emails from Lonely Planet with travel and product information, promotions, advertisements, third-party offers, and surveys. Getting there: entrance is via private land, so be mindful and respectful. 1000m – 1600m swims Beneath the waves at the Poor Knights Islands, you'll find subtropical fish that can't be seen anywhere else in New… You might also like: Nature, surf & culture: 7 things to do in New Zealand’s Northland. The lake is a highlight along the Routeburn Track – one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks. Most thoughts of the abundant region will … If you can’t "handle the jandal" as the Kiwis would say, quench off back into the cooler river waters. Our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy explain how we use your data and who our partners are. Why I mention the abundent sealife including whale watch is the Antactartic streams brings all the krill up around the coast of NZ. Out of respect to the Ngati Apa people — and to preserve the purity of the water in this sacred place — please do not swim in Blue Lake, nor wash dishes, clothes, or yourself. 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