Lake Rotopounamu Beckons

Lake Rotopounamu

What a hidden gem this is! Lake Rotopounamu can be squeezed into any itinerary and has always delighted all guests who have visited her. Nestled on the side of the female mountain of the area, and formed after a landslide some 10,00 years ago, the lake is hidden from the usual traffic flow of tourists up on the side of Pihanga, female suitor of the mountains … but that is another story!

Hikers need to park their cars on the highway and walk in a good twenty minutes through peaceful native bush, accompanied by native bird song to the fresh, glistening lake. Why Lake Rotopounamu? Pounamu is New Zealand’s greenstone, a beautiful green jade and although only found in the South Island, was obviously traded by the Maori long before the European arrived. Roto meaning lake, and pounamu being the colour of the water.

However, I have digressed. If the weather has been kind to you, a hike around the lake will take just a mere 1½ ~ 2 hours and is one of the most peaceful and divine areas you will find. In fact, a picnic could be a great diversion if you’re looking for peace and tranquillity. It is quite spiritual in its presence, often visited by those wanting a relaxed ‘time out’ and away from the pressures of society. Many 'bird-watchers' may have her on their list and could be found lurking as they shush any rowdy visitors passing through. And take your swimming gear in summer for a quiet and restful plunge into the pure waters.

Interestingly, she is fed by seven small streams but nothing visible drains her other than a gurgler ... which is underground and not visible to the usual hiker.

We always pop it into people’s itinerary as a ‘Must See and Do’ even for our one-nighters who pass through with their rushed schedule.

Posted by Mary Wood on August 27, 2023