Rivers, lakes, coast & hills

The breath taking scenery of the Waimate District will revitalize the soul. Immerse yourself in the peace and tranquility of our natural environment where the hustle and bustle of daily life can be forgotten. From the snowy tops of the ranges in the Hakataramea Valley to the braided river flats of the mighty Waitaki river, there is an abundance of natural landscapes to explore.

Rivers

Hakataramea 

Head inland on SH82 to the Hakataramea River for a spot of trout fishing, a swim in the river or a stroll up the valley. You can also visit Paterson's Cottage in the Waitaki Valley, which is open for exterior viewing at all times.

Otaio

A 40 minute drive from Waimate is the Otaio Gorge Scenic Reserve. You can turn in off SH1 at Makikihi, or right on Blue Cliffs Rd St Andrews. The entrance to the reserve is off Back Line Rd, not far past Blue Cliffs Station. It’s a scenic camping spot run by DOC.

There are deep pools for fishing or swimming, scenic picnic spots plus a walking track. The sounds from the river and native birds are a real feature of this area.

Call into the Makikihi Hotel on the way home and check out their amazing menu and beer garden.

Pareora

Head north-west to Evans Crossing on the Pareora River where there are fantastic swimming holes and idyllic picnic spots. Pick up a bite to eat at St Andrews before you head inland. St Andrews Store, St Andrews Diner.

Waihao

Drive through the Waimate Gorge to moa country at Kapua Road (first road on your left when you leave the gorge). This is the site of the biggest ever find of moa bones. Visit the Waihao River and walkway - to get there follow Kapua Road to McCullochs Bridge; the walking track entry is on the other side of the bridge. There are beautiful views here of limestone cliffs and outcrops. Visit the Waihao Forks pub for a meal on the way home, and discover the story of New Zealand’s most unusual WWII memorial - Ted’s bottle.

Waitaki

This is one of New Zealand's great braided rivers, and still a popular fishery. Take the inland route on SH82, or travel south on SH1 to Glenavy, right on the doorstep of the Mighty Waitaki. There is a fishing access map here for spots up and down the river.  To take part in a a genuine kiwi jet boating experience, get in touch with Braided River Jet Boating.  Call into the Glenavy Hotel to see the trophy salmon of years gone by.

Lakes

Enjoy the scenic hour’s drive to the Waitaki lakes on SH82 via the Waimate Gorge.  Picnic beside Lake Aviemore or Lake Benmore where you can fish, swim, paint, or simply laze around beneath the willows with a book.

Drive out to Lake Wainono on the coast near SH1 and enjoy a walk, bird-watching, and beautiful views inland to the Hunters Hills. The car park and walking track entry is opposite Nosh Cafe.

Coast

Head to the Waihao Box for fishing and picnics.  Enjoy our rugged rocky coastline, but do take care on the gravel as it’s unstable and can shift fast. Visit the historic Studholme Hotel for a delicious meal from local farms to the plate.

Try your luck sea-fishing at renown fishing hot spot Hook Beach. Visit the Makikihi Hotel for a meal, or grab a quick bite from Nosh Cafe, or a delicious fruit ice cream from Butlers Berry Farm and Cafe.