Lake Kaniere Scenic Reserve
Introduction
Lake Kaniere is one of the most beautiful lakes in New Zealand. It is 8 km long, 2 km wide and as deep 195 m in places. There are several picnic places and one camping area, numerous short walks including two walkways.
Hokitika River as seen from the bridge,
Lake Kaniere Scenic Reserve
Features
The Scenic Reserve, is over 7000 ha including most of the land from the lake to the top of the peaks which surround it. The lake is surrounded by native bush except for two cleared areas of farmland on the eastern shore.
Please note that dogs are not permitted in the reserve as a myriad of bird species make their home in the lush forest.
Location
Lake Kaniere is 19 km east of the town of Hokitika on the West Coast.
Getting there
From Hokitika head east 19 km along Lake Kaniere Road, this road meets the lake at 'The Landing'. The road forks at this point, the right road heads to 'Sunny Bight' and the other is Dorothy Falls Road which takes you around the east side of the lake past Hans Bay.
Activities
Boating
Fishing
Kayaking and canoeing
Mountain biking and cycling
Swimming
The lake offers opportunity for a number of water sports, as well as being a great place to enjoy the bush.
Boating
Lake Kaniere is popular with boaters.
Fishing
Lake Kaniere contains perch, rainbow trout, brown trout, and salmon.
Kayaking and canoeing
Kaniere River is kayaked, and people enjoy canoeing on the lake. There are numerous picnic spots to be paddled to.
Mountain biking and cycling
Mountain bikes are permitted on the Kaniere Waterrace Walkway and the Lake Kaniere Walkway.
Swimming
Although chillly after rain, Lake Kaniere is a nice spot to have a swim. The best swimming is after a period of a couple of weeks fine weather. The bottom of the lake is sandy and the water is very clear. In places the bottom dips away sharply, so keep an eye on children. If you are particularily adventurous and dont mind a chilling, the pool below Dorothy Falls is picturesque and very refreshing on a hot day.