Rivers, lakes
and coast
The rivers, lakes and coastline around Waimate aren’t packaged up as attractions.
They’re places locals head to in summer. Camping by the lakes, swimming holes, fishing spots and long days near the water.
If you’re travelling with someone from the area, they’ll probably know a few good spots.
Camping at the lakes is how we do summer around here.
Each year from September to May, people head to the Waitaki Valley where Waimate District Council runs four large campsites along the shores of Lakes Aviemore and Waitaki. Think boats, fishing rods, swims off the shore and evenings back at camp.
Camping at the Lakes
Otaio Reserve
A 40 minute drive from Waimate will land you at Otaio Gorge Scenic Reserve and campsite.
It’s a DOC camping area a great place to spend a few slow hours. When it rains heavily it can flood - so stay clear in rainy conditions.
There are deep pools for a swim or a fish, shady picnic spots, and a short walking track. The river runs clear through the gorge and the sound of water and native birds does most of the talking.
On the way home, swing into the Makikihi Hotel. The menu’s worth the stop and the beer garden’s a good place to wind down after a day out.
Drive through the Waimate Gorge to moa country at Kapua Road (first road on your left when you leave the gorge). This is the site of the biggest ever find of moa bones.
Visit the Waihao River and walkway - to get there follow Kapua Road to McCullochs Bridge; the walking track entry is on the other side of the bridge.
There are beautiful views here of limestone cliffs and outcrops. Visit the Waihao Forks Hotel for a meal on the way home, and discover the story of New Zealand’s most unusual WWII memorial - Ted’s bottle.
Waihao River
The Waitaki River and hydro lakes
One of Aotearoa’s great braided rivers, and still a popular fishery.
The mighty Waitaki is the southern border of Waimate district and it’s fed these days by the Waitaki Hydro system, which makes enough power to run around 51,000 households.
The lakes are dotted with campsites and places to fish, boat and walk. The road ‘up the lakes is scenic and is best explored by checking out the ROAM Loop App.
Near the mouth of the Waitaki you’ll find Glenavy and the Glenavy Hotel. There’s also a lovely walking track you start at the layover near the bridge.
Wainono Lagoon
A ten-minute dive from Waimate, Wainono Lagoon is on the coast near SH1 and enjoy a walk, bird-watching, and beautiful views inland to the Hunters Hills.
The lagoon covers 350 hectares. It is a conservation area managed by DOC and provides habitat for some 57 different bird species, many resident and others migratory.
The car park and walking track entry is opposite Nosh Cafe.
Hook Beach
If you’re licensed and into fishing you might want to check out Hook Beach.
Hook Beach is a popular spot for elephant fish and rig. You can also catch shark and skate along this part of the coast.
October to December is prime time for elephant fish. The best time for going after rig is in the evening, when the light is going from dusk to dark.
Seals are regular visitors to these rocky beaches, you can often see dolphins out to sea, and if you’re really lucky the occasional whale.
To get there turn off State Highway 1 onto Hook Swamp Road, (near Butlers Berry Barn). Take a right turn onto Hook Beach Road and follow it along to the end.
Please note: you’ll need a fishing licence and your own fishing gear to fish here. Take care, the shifting gravels can be dangerous. We recommend going with a local.