Lake Benmore
Lake Hydroelectric reservoir formed by Benmore Dam in Otago
Formed behind Benmore Dam on the Waitaki River, Lake Benmore is New Zealand’s large hydro reservoir; anglers pursue salmon and trout, and boaters use the long water body for powerboating, sailing and shoreline picnics.
Lake Benmore is a large artificial reservoir on New Zealand’s South Island, created by impoundment of the Waitaki River. It was built as part of the Waitaki hydroelectric scheme and functions as significant storage for power generation.
The lake offers extensive shoreline and open water, used for boating and trout fishing; facilities and access are concentrated at a small number of public boat ramps and recreation areas. The shoreline is a mix of steep faces and benches created when valleys were flooded.
The reservoir was formed when the dam structure impounded the Waitaki and filled the former river valleys, altering the preexisting river landscape as part of mid-20th-century hydro development. Management of water levels supports downstream electricity generation.
Lake Benmore lies in the central South Island within the Otago region, on the Waitaki River system; the reservoir sits upstream of other Waitaki hydro facilities and is surrounded by braided-river country and tussock land.
- Hydroelectric role: Forms part of the Waitaki hydroelectric scheme and is one of the largest storage reservoirs on New Zealand's South Island.
- Recreation: Popular for angling and water recreation along its extensive shoreline when weather permits.
What to See #
- Benmore Dam: The dam that impounds the Waitaki River and creates the reservoir, forming part of the larger Waitaki hydroelectric scheme on New Zealand's South Island.
How to Get to Lake Benmore #
Reaching Benmore is primarily by car from Twizel or Omarama via State Highway 8 and local roads; the dam and shorelines are accessible from a number of turn-offs with parking.
Tips for Visiting Lake Benmore #
- If fishing, verify local licensing and seasonal restrictions before heading out
- Watch for strong winds on the open reservoir; small craft should be cautious
- Combine a visit with a drive through the Waitaki Valley for varied scenery
Best Time to Visit Lake Benmore #
Summer offers the most comfortable conditions for water recreation; check wind forecasts before boating.
Weather & Climate near Lake Benmore #
Lake Benmore's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with mild summers (peaking in January) and cold winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from -1°C to 22°C. Moderate rainfall (679 mm/year).
January
January is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (70 mm).
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February
February is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm).
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March
March is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm).
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April
April is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 5°C. The wettest month with 81 mm of rain.
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May
May is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 2°C. The wettest month with 81 mm of rain.
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June
June is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (37 mm).
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 8°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm).
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November
November is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (44 mm).
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December
December is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm).
