waitaki

Waitaki

Highlights

  • Hydro dams and lakes
  • Lakeside camping
  • Boating

Proximity

  • by car:

    1 hour 15 mins from Oamaru

A holiday favourite, campers flock to Otematata in summer to make the most of the lakeside location but the landscapes are spectacular all year.

Waitaki
Camping in Otematata, Waitaki

Campers flock to Otematata in summer, with caravans and boats in tow, to enjoy water sports, swimming, cycling and walking. You’ll see many boats and jet skis out on the lakes, towing water-skiers, inflatables or fishing for trout.

Visitors can view Benmore Dam, New Zealand’s largest earthen dam and second largest producer of hydro-electricity. Drive, walk or cycle across the dam and enjoy stunning seasonal landscapes from the viewing areas.

Also near the dam, you’ll find a carpark and entrance to Benmore Peninsula(opens in new window) walking track. During the walk, admire Lake Benmore and its islands, Benmore Dam, surrounding mountains and Otematata township.

The Otematata Wetlands are another popular spot for walkers, picnickers, cyclists and those in need of a swim. With a network of formed and marked tracks linking Wildlife Reserve and Boat Harbour Camp Grounds with the option to loop right around via the township to where you began.

The township also has a nine-hole golf course, comfortable accommodation options, a small grocery store, fish ‘n’ chips and a restaurant/bar.

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