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Lake Benmore

Lake Benmore is New Zealand’s largest artificial lake, having been created in the 1960s by the construction of Benmore Hydro-Dam. It is about 74km², with a shoreline 116km long and holds about 1.25 billion cubic meters of water – that’s 1.5 times the water in Wellington Harbour!

This is New Zealand’s largest earth dam and was part of the Upper Waitaki Hydroelectric project. Construction of Benmore Dam was approved in 1957 and the lake was filled in December 1964.

The lake consists of two arms: the Haldon arm which is fed mainly by the Tekapo, Pukaki, Twizel rivers, and the Ohau Canal; and the Ahuriri Arm, fed mainly by the Ahuriri River.

Lake Benmore is a peaceful and stunning place all year round, with its unique blue colour and breathtaking views. Autumn adds even more vibrancy as the leaves change colour.

Enjoy several popular walking or biking tracks in the Lake Benmore area, or stop for a picnic with breathtaking views. Lake Benmore is also popular with boating and swimming with many secluded beaches and bays to be found. Fishing enthusiasts can also enjoy catching brown trout, rainbow trout, chinook salmon and sockeye salmon.

For more information and to book please contact our Distinction Omarama Hotel team who can offer a wealth of advice on Waitaki District and Mackenzie Region attractions.
Lake Benmore is New Zealand’s largest artificial lake, having been created in the 1960s by the construction of Benmore Hydro-Dam. It is about 74km² and holds about 1.25 billion cubic meters of water – that’s 1.5 times the water in Wellington Harbour!
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Lake Benmore
Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel OmaramaLake Benmore
Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel OmaramaLake Benmore
Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel Omarama