Summary
Lake Brunner Kotuku Whakaoho is the West Coast's largest lake. The present name commemorates Thomas Brunner who became the first European to see the lake. Its Maori name means 'flapping wings of the kotuku (white heron)'. Formed by a glacier it is fed by three rivers and a number of streams. It is drained by the Arnold River Kotuku Awa.
The lake is popular for swimming, boating or angling. The township of Moana at the northern end of the lake provides a range of accommodation.
There are a number of walks adjacent to the lake and the Arnold River and two routes ranging in duration from 20 minutes to 8 hours. The brochure provides information about safety and equipment requirements.