The Tranquil Shores of Lake Wakatipu in New Zealand
Being in the centre of New Zealand’s South Island, Lake Wakatipu is one of the most beautiful and distinguished lakes in the region, and you wouldn’t even pay attention to it as it is utterly serene and gorgeous. The lake is now 80 km or 50 mi long, covering an area of 291 sq. km or 112 sq. mi, making it the third largest lake in NZ and the longest on the island. It is a remarkable piece of the jewel of Otago that is more famous during the thrilling adventure capital of the world, Queenstown, and the less explored but beautiful village of Glen Orchy.
This is a lovely lake, and it is still one of the less crowded destinations for both tourists and those living in the area. Mountains surround this lake; the Remarkable range to the east, and the Southern Alps are also characteristic of the region. These towering mountains, with their snow in some parts, give a sparkling reflection in this lake’s crystal-clear blue water, completing the New Zealand-like scenery picture. It is shaped like an S, and along with the legends the Maori have, this lake was made by the skeleton of a giant who kidnapped a chieftain’s daughter and tried to set her on fire.
The environment surrounding Lake Wakatipu is perfect for the range of things to do outdoors for recreation. A boat, canoe, and paddle board can be rented since its waters are relatively still and do not pose the risk of solid currents; mountain biking and hiking are also possible near peaks. Another excellent trail is Queenstown Hill Time Walk, which offers tremendous opportunities to enjoy Queenstown Lake and the views of the surroundings. The area will be most ideally suited for photographers since the lake may be photographed at any time of the day in any of the seasons.
Besides the scenic value, Lake Wakatipu offers the best of Melanesian culture and history. The Maori people have occupied the region around the lake for a long time, and this culture is evident in the naming of places and the stories associated with them. Europeans first settled the land in the middle of the 19th century during the Otago gold rush, and when exploring some of the historic towns and walking around the lake, it is possible to get a glimpse of the past.
The vacation destination allows one to get away from the daily pressures of life and experience the area’s beauty, natural attractions, and cultural attractions. Just as the mountains reflect the calmness on a still day or the beautiful picture when encapsulated behind an intense alpine tramp, the glamour of the calm nature of Wakatipu, which leaves a deep and permanent impact on anyone, remains timeless.
