• ABOUT THE SPOT

Kayaking in Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown, Otago New Zealand

Length:
80km/49mi
Tide:
Yes
Queenstown is considered by many sportsmen as the capital of extreme sports and adventure activities. It is situated in Otago region, in the South Island, New Zealand.

The town is surrounded by Lake Wakatipu and the awe-inspiring Southern Alps, with spectacular mountains such as the Remarkables, Cecil Peak and Ben Lomond. Queenstown and the surrounding area was the setting for the legendary films Lord of the Rings and X-Men Origins. Despite the mountainous landscape, the climate is considered to be oceanic, with warm summers and temperatures that can reach up to 30°C/86°F, and cold winters with frequent snowfalls.

Lake Wakatipu is the longest lake in New Zealand (49 mi/80 km length) and the second largest in South Island. It is surrounded by glaciated mountains, the highest of which is Mount Earnslaw, and is drained by Kawarau River.

The Lake’s peculiarity is that it has a tide. The water level rises and drops about 3 in/10 cm in 25 min cycles. The lake is perfect for whitewater kayaking. Explore its beauty and mysteries while paddling inside a kayak. Enjoy the magnificent alpine view and the breathtaking wild landscape!