Lake Ōhau Lake

Address: Lake Ōhau, Mackenzie District, Otago Region, New Zealand - near Lake Ōhau Village

Hours: Always open (outdoor lake)

Admission: Free

Lake Ōhau is a glacial lake on New Zealand’s South Island set in high-country, alpine terrain. It is part of the local Ōhau river system and functions as a focus for outdoor recreation in the area.

The lake and its immediate surroundings offer trout fishing, lakeside walks and mountain scenery; the small lakeside settlement provides basic services and boat access. A nearby ski field provides winter recreation and backcountry access for experienced users.

The lake and basin were shaped by glacial action during the last ice ages and have long been used for seasonal fishing and pastoral activities. Local infrastructure developed gradually to support tourism and outdoor recreation in the 20th century.

The lake sits in the high-country of New Zealand’s South Island among alpine foothills, with small settlements and rural roads providing the main access.

• Recreation: The lake is a glacial alpine lake set among high country terrain and is commonly used for trout fishing and alpine recreation.
• Access: Access is by local roads from surrounding townships and the area has scattered accommodation rather than large resorts.

What to See#

• Lake Ōhau Village: A small settlement and visitor hub on the lake’s southern shore with basic accommodation and boat access; serves as the main starting point for walks and fishing trips.
• Ōhau Ski Field: A nearby alpine ski field serving winter recreation and backcountry access to surrounding peaks; located on slopes near the lake.

Drive State Highway 8 from Twizel (about 45 minutes west) or Omarama (about 40 minutes east). The lake is visible from the main road; Lake Ōhau Village has small public car parks and walking access to the shore.

• Drive State Highway 8 and park at the Lake Ōhau Village car park for the best access to walking tracks and the shoreline.
• Fishing anglers should check for seasonal licences - Ōhau is known for brown and rainbow trout.
• In winter, check road and weather conditions; the adjacent Ōhau ski area is a short drive from the village.