Outdoor Activities
Whether on the campground or nearby, a wide range of outdoor activities awaits, ensuring everyone finds their perfect adventure.
On-site Fun
Fishing
Rich in salmon and trout, with a fishing license allowing up to 2 fish per person every single day. Fishing opens on September 1st, earlier than any other nearby lakes.
Abundant Fish Species – Lake Benmore is renowned for its diverse fish population, including:
• Rainbow trout:
Known for their size and strength, offering a challenging catch.
• Brown trout:
Valued for their elusive nature and rewarding fight.
• Sockeye salmon:
Increasingly popular, with tens of thousands in the lake, providing unique fishing opportunities.
The lake's varied terrain supports multiple fishing techniques
• Trolling:
Effective for targeting deeper waters, especially for salmon.
• Fly fishing:
Ideal in the clear waters of the Ahuriri Arm, particularly during evening hatches.
• Shoreline fishing:
Accessible for those without boats, with several entry points around the lake.
Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, Lake Benmore provides a rich and rewarding fishing experience.
Water Sports
Water Sports at Lake Benmore
• Boating:
Lake Benmore’s vast expanse of calm waters makes it a popular spot for boating. Families and groups often bring speedboats, yachts, and small dinghies.
• Kayaking & Canoeing:
The lake’s sheltered inlets and scenic arms, like the Ahuriri Arm, are ideal for kayaking or canoeing. Paddlers enjoy gliding through crystal-clear waters, often spotting trout beneath the surface and birds along the shoreline.
• Jet Skiing:
With its large surface area, Lake Benmore is well-suited for jet skiing. Riders can enjoy both thrilling high-speed runs and relaxed cruising.
• Water Skiing & Wakeboarding:
The lake is a hotspot for water skiing and wakeboarding. Its wide open stretches and reliable summer conditions provide perfect settings for skiers and riders of all skill levels.
Why Lake Benmore is Perfect for Water Sports
• Size & Variety:
One of New Zealand’s largest artificial lakes, offering both open water and sheltered bays.
• Family-Friendly:
Multiple picnic areas and campgrounds right by the lake.
• All-in-One Destination:
Visitors can combine fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking in the same trip.
Relax
• Peaceful Lakeside Setting:
Lake Benmore is surrounded by rolling hills and the Southern Alps in the distance, offering a tranquil natural environment. The calm waters reflect the sky and mountains, creating a sense of stillness that instantly slows life down.
• Picnics & Family Time:
Many campgrounds and picnic areas line the shores, perfect for enjoying a relaxed meal outdoors. Families gather with barbecues and evenings are spent around campfires under the stars.
• Nature Watching:
Relaxation also comes from connecting with nature. The lake is home to a variety of birdlife such as crested grebes and ducks, while trout can often be spotted near the shore. Watching the sunrise or sunset over the water is a highlight for many visitors.
• Quiet Moments:
If you’re not into water activities, the surrounding tracks and grassy lakesides are perfect for a slow stroll or simply sitting with a book. The wide open spaces provide plenty of room to find a quiet corner for yourself.
Why Lake Benmore is Ideal for Relaxation:
• Quiet atmosphere with plenty of space to unwind.
• Beautiful natural surroundings that ease stress.
• Family-friendly facilities that make it easy to enjoy long, restful days.
• Unique dark sky for unforgettable nights under the stars.
Walking
• Scenic Lakeside Walks:
Lake Benmore offers gentle tracks along the shoreline where visitors can stroll at their own pace. These walks give uninterrupted views of turquoise waters, rolling hills, and the surrounding Southern Alps. Perfect for those who want to enjoy the lake’s beauty without strenuous climbing.
• Nature & Wildlife Encounters:
Walking around the lake is a chance to connect with nature. You may spot native birds such as paradise shelducks, swans, and crested grebes, or even see trout gliding in the shallows. The peaceful atmosphere makes every step calming and refreshing.
• Accessibility for Everyone:
Many of the lakeside walks are flat and easy, making them suitable for families with children or older visitors. These tracks can be enjoyed as a short stroll after a swim or a longer walk to take in more of the lake’s scenery.
• Relaxation Meets Exercise:
Walking at Lake Benmore combines light physical activity with relaxation. Fresh air, open views, and quiet spaces encourage mindfulness while still offering gentle exercise for the body.
Why Walking at Lake Benmore is Special:
• Variety: From short strolls to scenic loop tracks.
• Views: Constant lake and mountain backdrops.
• Family-friendly: Easy terrain accessible to most visitors.
• Nature-rich: Opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
Stargazing
• Part of the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve:
Lake Benmore lies within the internationally recognized Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best stargazing locations in the world. Thanks to strict lighting controls in the Mackenzie Basin, the skies above the lake are exceptionally dark and clear, free from light pollution.
• Accessible Yet Remote Feeling:
Unlike some observatory locations, Lake Benmore gives visitors the freedom to enjoy the night sky from their campsite or a lakeside spot. It feels remote and wild, yet it’s still easy to reach from towns like Twizel and Otematata.
• Great for Families and Photographers:
Families: Stargazing is an easy, family-friendly evening activity that doesn’t require special gear.
Photographers: The lake offers incredible opportunities for astrophotography, with the mirrored water and silhouettes of mountains adding drama to night sky shots.
Why Stargazing at Lake Benmore is Special:
• World-class dark skies with minimal light pollution.
• Magical lake setting that doubles the beauty with reflections.
• Accessible to everyone — no telescope required.
• Part of a unique reserve treasured globally for its pristine night skies.
Explore Nearby
Scenic Points
• Benmore Dam Lookout (Approx. 11 km):
Located just a short drive from Ohau C Campground, the Benmore Dam Lookout offers sweeping views over one of New Zealand’s largest earth dams. From this vantage point, visitors can take in the scale of the hydroelectric dam, the turquoise waters of Lake Benmore, and the surrounding mountains. It’s an excellent spot for photography and to appreciate the engineering that powers much of the South Island.
• Lake Benmore Islands Lookout (Approx. 20 km):
This lookout rewards visitors with a bird’s-eye view of Lake Benmore’s distinctive islands scattered across its deep-blue waters. The sight of the lake dotted with islands, set against the backdrop of the Mackenzie Country hills, is truly spectacular. It’s a popular stop for those wanting to capture the unique geography of the area and enjoy a panoramic perspective.
• Lake Ohau Lookout (Approx. 31 km):
A slightly longer trip but well worth the drive, the Lake Ohau Lookout showcases one of the most stunning alpine lakes in the region. From here, you’ll see the crystal-clear waters of Lake Ohau framed by the towering Ben Ohau Range and the Southern Alps. On clear days, the dramatic mountain scenery makes this lookout a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers.
Why These Lookouts Are Special:
• Variety of Views: From engineering marvels (Benmore Dam) to natural wonders (islands and alpine lakes).
• Close to Ohau C Campground: All three are within easy driving distance for day trips.
• Perfect for Visitors: Whether you’re into photography, sightseeing, or simply relaxing with a view, these spots deliver unforgettable experiences.
Winter Sports
• Mount Cook (Approx. 1 hr):
Mount Cook might not have traditional ski fields, but adventure is everywhere! Hop on a ski plane to Tasman Glacier for a one-of-a-kind alpine experience, or heli-ski at Glentanner Park for some challenging terrain. If you prefer something more relaxed, try snowshoeing across stunning alpine landscapes, or simply enjoy scenic flights with breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mount Cook and its surrounding peaks. Guided tours are available for all levels, ensuring that both thrill-seekers and casual explorers can find their perfect adventure.
• Ohau Snow Fields (Approx. 1 hr):
Nestled above Lake Ohau, this boutique ski field is known for its welcoming atmosphere and breathtaking scenery. It offers a great mix of beginner slopes, intermediate runs, and advanced terrain, including powder stashes and wide open bowls. The stunning views over Lake Ohau make skiing here a truly unique experience.
• Roundhill Ski Area (Approx. 1.5 hr):
Located near Lake Tekapo, Roundhill is a family-friendly ski area with gentle learner slopes, long intermediate trails, and some of the world’s longest rope tows that open up challenging terrain for advanced skiers. Its relaxed vibe, combined with expansive views of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Mackenzie Basin, makes it ideal for both families and adventurous skiers.
• Mt Dobson Ski Area (Approx. 1.5 hr):
Situated between Tekapo and Fairlie, Mt Dobson offers a wide, sunny basin perfect for skiing at all levels. Beginners enjoy spacious gentle slopes, while intermediate and advanced skiers can take advantage of longer runs and more technical areas. The high elevation often means reliable snow conditions throughout the season.
Cycling
• Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail:
The famous Alps 2 Ocean (A2O) Cycle Trail passes near Ohau C Campground and is one of New Zealand’s premier multi-day rides. Stretching from Aoraki/Mt Cook all the way to the Pacific Ocean at Oamaru, it covers over 300 km of diverse landscapes. The sections near Lake Benmore and Lake Ōhau showcase some of the most scenic parts of the trail, blending alpine views, turquoise lakes, and wide-open Mackenzie Basin landscapes.
• Twizel to Lake Ōhau Lodge:
This section is relatively gentle and follows a mix of canals and open country roads. Riders enjoy expansive views of the Mackenzie Basin, with the Ben Ohau Range rising dramatically on one side. The trail eventually leads to the shores of Lake Ōhau, where the crystal-clear waters and surrounding peaks create a breathtaking backdrop. It’s a ride that balances accessibility with incredible scenery.
• Lake Ōhau Lodge to Ōmarama:
One of the most spectacular stages of the A2O, this ride begins at Lake Ōhau Lodge and gradually climbs to the Ōhau Saddle, offering panoramic alpine views. The descent into the Ōhau Valley is both thrilling and picturesque, eventually leading riders down into Ōmarama. This section is a highlight for cyclists who love a mix of challenge and scenery, with constantly changing landscapes along the way.
• Ōmarama to Otematata:
From Ōmarama, the trail crosses the Ahuriri River and continues toward Lake Benmore. Riders follow quiet country roads and paths that weave past rugged hills and farmland before reaching Otematata. The combination of river crossings, lake views, and small-town charm makes this stage varied and enjoyable.
Hiking
• Greta Track:
The Greta Track is a scenic route that follows the Greta Valley near Lake Ōhau. It combines gentle walking with more rugged sections, making it a versatile choice for both casual walkers and keen hikers. Along the way, you’ll encounter tussock grasslands, native beech forest remnants, and sweeping views back towards Lake Ōhau and the Ben Ōhau Range. This track is perfect for those wanting a true Mackenzie Country backcountry experience.
• Ben Ōhau Peak & Greta Stream Loop:
For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the Ben Ōhau Peak and Greta Stream Loop provides a rewarding adventure. The route takes you up towards Ben Ōhau (1,529 m), offering commanding views over Lake Ōhau, Lake Benmore, and the Mackenzie Basin. The loop incorporates Greta Stream, a picturesque alpine stream that adds charm and variety to the hike. This track is demanding but offers some of the best panoramic views in the region.
• Lake Ōhau Track:
The Lake Ōhau Track is a gentler option that follows the shoreline of Lake Ōhau. It’s popular with both walkers and mountain bikers, providing a flat to rolling route with constant lake and mountain views. The track links with the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, making it a versatile route for those who want to mix walking and cycling. Ideal for families, photographers, or anyone wanting to enjoy a peaceful stroll close to the water.
• Greta Stream Walk:
The Greta Stream Walk is a shorter, family-friendly walk that follows the tranquil Greta Stream. Shaded in places by native vegetation and accompanied by the sound of flowing water, this track is perfect for a relaxed outing. It’s a great option for birdwatching, picnics, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings without committing to a longer hike.
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