Lake Pukaki — Attraction in South Island

Lake Pukaki, located on New Zealand’s South Island, is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that captivates visitors with its surreal beauty and pristine environment. Nestled in the Mackenzie Basin, this glacial lake is renowned for its striking turquoise-blue waters, which owe their vibrant hue to finely ground rock particles, or “glacial flour,” suspended in the water. The lake stretches about 27 kilometers in length, offering a stunning foreground to the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Lake Pukaki is its visual impact. Whether you're driving along State Highway 8 or stopping at a lookout, the lake's color and the snow-capped mountains in the background create a postcard-perfect scene. The sight is especially dramatic on clear days when the lake reflects the surrounding Southern Alps. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Lake Pukaki also offers a peaceful, uncrowded alternative to some of New Zealand’s more tourist-heavy locations. While it doesn’t boast many commercial attractions, it’s perfect for quiet walks, picnics, or simply soaking in the scenery. Nearby, visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy stargazing under the region’s dark skies, or continue on to Mount Cook National Park for more adventurous treks.

The lake is part of the country's hydroelectric system, and though man-made alterations have slightly changed its water level, its natural charm remains largely intact. There are also several freedom camping areas nearby, making it a great stop for campervan travelers.

Overall, Lake Pukaki is a serene and visually stunning destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and peaceful solitude. It's a must-visit for anyone traveling through New Zealand’s South Island, especially those seeking scenic vistas and a break...

Lake Pukaki is a beautiful creamy blue colour lake, fed by the Tasman River and snow melt off from the Mount Cook area just to the north. This moraine-dammed lake runs north-south and is nestled up against the mountain range to the west, making for delightful scenes and picture taking from the east and southern coast of the lake.

You'll find Lake Pukaki along State Highway 8 (Tekapo-Twizel Road) around 8 kilometres north of Twizel and perhaps 60 kilometres or so from Lake Tekapo to the east.

There are quite a few roadside viewpoint stops to make as you follow State Highway 8 until the north turnoff on State Highway 80 to Mount Cook. The only facility stop around the lake is the Lake Pukaki Visitor Centre / Mount Cook Alpine Salmon Co. on the southern end of the lake. Here you find public toilets, some general information about the area. You can also try fresh King salmon products available for sale.

What we liked best about Lake Pukaki was the small north bound road turnoff on the eastern end of State Highway 8. Here you can drive north along the eastern side of the lake, quite near to the water. You are treated to spectacular views of the lake with snow-capped mountains further west. Again, there are numerous places to pull off the road to admire the scenery and...

The beauty of this place is breathtaking. Amazingly beautiful lake, with turquoise water spread as long as you can see. On the backdrop of the highest mountain range of mount cook, which is always clad in snow and clouds. It's so beautiful to take your mind into trance. Nature lover or not. Words aren't enough to describe this place you just have to be there. There is a large parking area with restrooms just beside the lake for the convenience of the tourists. You feel like you should be living here instead of just visiting it. I highly recommend you to visit lake pukaki if you are visiting New...