Serenity at Lake Hayes: A Natural Gem in New Zealand
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake Hayes, a tranquil alpine lake perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic photography in New Zealand.
Lake Hayes, a stunning alpine lake nestled in the heart of New Zealand, is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. With its sparkling waters reflecting the surrounding mountains and lush greenery, this picturesque location offers a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Whether you prefer hiking, cycling, or simply relaxing by the shore, Lake Hayes is the perfect spot to soak in the beauty of the South Island.
A brief summary to Lake Hayes
- Lake Hayes, NZ
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Bring your own picnic to enjoy by the lake; there are beautiful spots to relax.
- Check weather conditions before your visit, as they can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Consider renting a bike to explore the 8-kilometer loop track around the lake.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species along the trails.
Getting There
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Bus
From Wanaka town center, walk to the Wanaka i-SITE Visitor Centre located at 103 Ardmore Street. Here, you can catch the Connectabus service that runs to Queenstown. Make sure to check the bus schedule as it operates at specific times. Once on the bus, inform the driver that you're heading to Lake Hayes. The bus will take you towards Queenstown, and you will need to get off at the Lake Hayes stop. Upon disembarking, follow the signs toward the lake, which is a short walk from the bus stop.
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Bike
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in Wanaka, such as 'Wanaka Bike Tours' located on Helwick Street. Once you have your bike, head towards the Lake Wanaka foreshore and follow the path that leads to the Wanaka-Mount Aspiring Road. Continue on this road for approximately 10km until you reach Lake Hayes. There are bike lanes for most of the journey, and you can enjoy stunning views along the way.
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Walking
For the adventurous, you can walk to Lake Hayes from Wanaka. Start at the Wanaka i-SITE Visitor Centre and head south on Ardmore Street. Continue onto the Wanaka-Mount Aspiring Road and follow the pathway along the road. It is about a 10km walk, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The scenic views along the way will make the walk enjoyable, and once you arrive at Lake Hayes, you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Discover more about Lake Hayes
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Silver Fern Gallery
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Arrowtown Chinese Settlement & Buckingham St
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Queenstown Highlights - Small group sightseeing tours
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Queenstown Heritage Tours Ltd.
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Ben Lomond Lavender Farm
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Queenstown Hill
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Queenstown Hill Summit
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Queenstown Hill Walking Track
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Arrowtown Wine Tours, Queenstown
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Department of Conservation Whakatipu-wai-Māori Queenstown Visitor Centre
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Greatsights
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Cookie Time
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Ivan Clarke Gallery
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Canyon Explorers
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Ziptrek Ecotours
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lake Hayes scenic spot
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Hayes - a serene haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in New Zealand.
Nockies Palette & Stoneridge Cellar Door
0.8 km
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Lake Hayes Showground
0.8 km
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Lake Hayes Lookout
1.5 km
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Lake Hayes Reserve
1.7 km
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Twin Rivers Trail
3.2 km
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Lower Shotover
3.7 km
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Arrowtown
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Rifters Tasting Room
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Better By Bike
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Historic Arrowtown Chinese Settlement
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Arrowtown Bike Hire
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Queenstown Winery Tours
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Appellation Wine Tours, Queenstown, New Zealand
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Basecamp Adventures Queenstown Climbing Centre
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Essential places to dine
Wakatipu Grill
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The Boatshed Cafe
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True South Dining Room
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Pedro's House of Lamb
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The Observatory Restaurant
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Rata
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Brazz
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odd saint
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Caribe Latin Kitchen
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No5 Church Lane
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Casetta
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The World Bar
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FOGO South American BBQ Experience
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Yonder
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Margo's Queenstown
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Little Peanuts - Handmade in Arrowtown NZ
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Queenz Souvenirs 特产店
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Social Clothing & Co
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The Colab Queenstown
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The Warehouse Queenstown
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Lusso Boutique Queenstown
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Sugar Trading
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The Barn
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Country Lane Retail Village
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KAPA
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Girl Next Door Fashion
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The Walk in Wardrobe - Frankton
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AJ Hackett Bungy Shop
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Decode Queenstown
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Remarkable Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
1876
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Pig & Whistle Pub
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Cowboy's Queenstown
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Habana Boutique Rum Bar
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Little Mez
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Zephyr
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Bardeaux
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Upstairs @ The Bunker
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The Sundeck Rooftop Bar
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Surreal Bar & Restaurant
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Le Salon Rouge
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Rodd & Gunn The Lodge, Queenstown
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Ferg's Bar
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Perky's - Floating Bar Queenstown
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Pub on Wharf
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Church Queenstown
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The Club
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Seek
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Vinyl Underground
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Rhino's Ski Shack
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Big Night Out Pub Crawl
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Electric Rush
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Soho Queenstown
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Mt Aspiring Holiday Park
39.0 km
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Wanaka Bridge Club
40.4 km
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Tititea/Mount Aspiring National Park Visitor Centre
41.4 km
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Wanaka Districts Club Inc
41.6 km
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Cascade Hut
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Aspiring Hut
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French Ridge Hut
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