When you come to New Zealand, you will love to enjoy and observe Lake Wakatipu, the third largest in the country. Since we don't want you to waste time when you come to one of the best countries in the world, we are going to tell you everything you need to know about this lake.
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| Lake Wakatipu |
When you dare to take the leap, you will surely want to know more places that you should not miss in New Zealand; Therefore, you will be interested in what to see in New Zealand. Do not miss it!
Lake Wakatipu is undoubtedly one of New Zealand's must-see sites. It is located on the South Island and is located in the southwest corner of the region of Otago. As we have told you, it is the third largest lake in the country and one of the deepest in the world. It is said to be approximately 378 to 420 meters deep. Amazing!
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| Lake Wakatipu |
This lake is known for its curious shape of lightning, but a peculiar fact is that, in topographic terms, Wakatipu is recognized as a lake with an inverse N or “dog's leg” shape.?
The temperature of the lake is very low because of the water currents that come from the rivers, snow-capped mountains and glaciers. The currents are received by both the Dart River, to the north, and the Kawaraual River, to the south. Even in summer, the temperature does not reach 10ยบ; therefore, it is difficult to take a bath without neoprene.
Wakatipu occupies a stretch of land that used to be a glacier and is surrounded by high mountains, such as Mount Earnslaw, which is the largest in the area. In addition, we can find cities such as Queenstown and small towns such as Kingston, Glenorchy and Kinloch, where you can spend a few days or spend the night.
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| Lake Wakatipu |
Another of its curiosities is the wave that is created, of about 10 centimeters, every half hour, approximately, because of the currents. According to Maori legend, this small wave is caused by a huge monster, called Matau, who is resting under the current and, with his snoring, makes the water rise and fall.
And where does this giant come from? Well, there is a curious legend that, if you go, maybe they will tell you. The story goes that a giant kidnapped a beautiful young woman and her boyfriend, to save her, he burned the bed where the giant slept. As its fat melted, it burned and formed a crater, which is the basin of Lake Wakatipu. Quirky, right?
How to get?
The best way to get to Wakatipu, from one of the nearby towns like Queenstown, is by boat, walking or cycling. From here you can do different routes to visit and fall in love with the lake. For example, to get to Queenstown, you can do it by plane, with your own car or Camper; everything will depend on the time you have.
Activities at Lake Wakatipu
In Lake Wakatipu, especially, it is known for its incredible landscape surrounded by mountains; generally called The Remarkables. These are ideal for adventure tourism, as they have ski slopes, paragliding, bungee jumping and hiking.
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| Lake Wakatipu |
In addition, the lake allows us to carry out all kinds of activities; one of the most characteristic is trout fishing in the mouths of the Greenstone and Lochy rivers. In summer, this lake turns into a great "beach", perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
There is a very popular boat, the TSS Earnslaw, that cruises the lake every day. It is an old steamboat and has become a New Zealand icon. It features a bright red, 12-meter fireplace, white hull and kauri wood decks. When you go to visit the Wakatipu, you are sure to see it!
In fact, even being a place where boats pass, the water that we find in this lake is considered the second purest in the country, reaching a level of 99.9%.?
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| Lake Wakatipu |
What to do in Lake Wakatipu
As we have seen, Lake Wakatipu offers us endless activities. Here we propose the ones that you cannot miss.
- Swim in this natural wonder, but remember that you may need a good wetsuit to enjoy it as it deserves.
- Fishing for trout in various areas where it is usually fished.
- Dare to do bungee jumping.
- Navigate Lake Wakatipu on a paddle steamer.
- Take a photo at the viewpoints that you find arriving at Lake Wakatipu.
- Visit the villages around the lake.
What else to see in New Zealand
Eager to come to New Zealand? Well, these places are the ones you can't forget when you come to live or visit. In every corner of this country you will find different surprises that will leave you amazed. So, if your plan is to visit the entire Southland, without a doubt, a must-see stop is Lake Wakatipu.