Lake Pukaki Lookout, located in Ben Ohau, New Zealand, is a must-see destination for travelers visiting the South Island.
The lookout offers a stunning view of Lake Pukaki, the largest of three alpine lakes running north-south along the northern edge of the Mackenzie Basin. The lake's glacial blue waters are a sight to behold, and on most days, the water is a beautiful turquoise-blue color. The lake's surface elevation ranges from 518.2 to 532 meters, and its average depth is 47 meters, with a maximum depth of 70 meters. The lake's catchment area is 1,413 square kilometers, and its water volume is 4.66 cubic kilometers.
The Ben Ohau Range forms a perfect backdrop to the alpine scene, and the peaks bordering the lake are relatively small compared to the highest summits a little further north. Mount Cook, at the head of the lake, is 3,724 meters high. The lookout point is located at the Information Center just before the turnoff for State Highway 80 to Mount Cook National Park when coming from Lake Tekapo. The lookout offers the best view of Lake Pukaki and Mount Cook, and there is a second lookout called Peters Lookout, located on State Highway 80, about 10 kilometers in from State Highway 8, where visitors can stop and enjoy more views of Mount Cook and Lake Pukaki.
Visitors to Lake Pukaki Lookout can enjoy the stunning scenery, take photographs, and go on hikes in the surrounding area. The lookout is also a great place for stargazing, as the area is known for its clear skies and lack of light pollution. Lake Pukaki Lookout is a 2.5 to 3 hours drive away from Christchurch, and visitors can reach it by driving from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo and then continuing on State Highway 8. The lookout is a popular destination for photographers, hikers, and nature lovers. The Alps2Ocean mountain bike trail follows the edge of Lake Pukaki for part of its length, making it a great destination for cyclists as well.
Lake Pukaki Lookout is one of the seven most beautiful lakes on the South Island of New Zealand, and it is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area. With its stunning views of Lake Pukaki and Mount Cook, visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature and take in the peaceful surroundings. Whether you're a photographer, hiker, cyclist, or stargazer, Lake Pukaki Lookout has something for everyone. So, if you're planning a trip to the South Island of New Zealand, make sure to add Lake Pukaki Lookout to your itinerary.