Lake Te Koo Utu Reserve — Attraction in North Island

Lake Te Koo Utu Reserve is a hidden gem in Cambridge, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, peaceful walking trails, and a relaxing environment for visitors of all ages. Whether you're looking for a scenic spot for a morning walk, a family picnic, or a place to unwind in nature, this reserve is an excellent choice.

The lake itself is small but picturesque, surrounded by lush greenery, native trees, and well-maintained gardens. The reflections of the trees on the calm water create a serene and almost magical atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for photography or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. The birdlife around the lake adds to the charm, with ducks, pukeko, and other native species often seen along the shore.

One of the highlights of the reserve is its well-paved walking tracks that loop around the lake. The Lake Te Koo Utu Walkway offers an easy and enjoyable stroll, suitable for all fitness levels. There are also some steeper paths leading up to higher vantage points, rewarding walkers with stunning views of the lake and surrounding town. The paths are well-maintained, making them accessible for prams and wheelchairs, though some of the steeper sections might be a bit challenging.

There are plenty of seating areas and picnic tables scattered around the reserve, making it a fantastic spot for a relaxed lunch or a coffee break. The grassy areas provide ample space for families to spread out a picnic blanket, and the reserve’s peaceful environment makes it a great place to read a book or simply take in the fresh air.

The reserve has public toilets, which are clean and well-kept. Parking is available near the entrance, and there are plenty of spaces, though it can get busy during weekends and sunny afternoons. There is also a playground nearby, making it an excellent stop for families with...

Pleasant stroll around the lake on a sunny summer's day. Plenty of shade on one side (the most scenic route), not so much on the other.

Took HEAPS of photos of surrounding trees, birdlife and lake. Great water feature (concrete flow form) cascading down the hill among the trees with a pathway/viewing platforms up to the top beside it.

Toilets at roadside end near the carpark. Would be nice if some were at the other end also, just in case 😉

Several pathways lead up to the top as well on both sides if you're feeling energetic, otherwise it's a mostly wide flat gravel pathway all around.

Quite a few people around, but not crowded which was great for the photo stops.

Definitely recommend, whether for a quick stop, a power walk or run, a leisurely stroll for an hour or two, or even a picnic.

Been here many times before, quite some time ago. So glad I've just been again...

The "duck-shaped" lake Te Koutu, is a beautiful and romantic place for couples and families to roam in....

You can walk around the entire duck 🦆 shaped lake in perfect peace...

Especially you must visit Te Koutu around the 20th of September when the cherry 🍒 blossoms are out. Perfect for the pictorial posing amongst heavenly blossoms.

Complete with electronic toilets 🚻 that talk, it's a beautiful place for you and your family.

Also, you can walk up a fair graded pathway for a greater, big picture view of the duck shaped lake that is a major feature of Cambridge Town, great for tourist shopping as well as groceries and essentials.

Geoff...