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Waikato

Waikato

The Top 16 Lakes in Waikato

Looking to visit the best lakes in Waikato? After all, there’s nothing better than the serenity of the lakeshore — or a quick dip when the weather’s warm. So, browse our list of Waikato’s top lakes below as recommended by the komoot community, and experience more on your next adventure!

Last updated: October 20, 2025

Emerald Lakes

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The ascent or descent on this scree is quite slippery

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Blue Lake

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Beautiful, the view of the lakes when you come from the Red Crater! The Emerald Lakes and the Blue Lake are very cold and very acidic because of the volcanic …

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Champagne Pool (Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland)

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Champagne Pool is a prominent geothermal feature within the Waiotapu geothermal area in the North Island of New Zealand. The name Champagne Pool is derived from the abundant efflux of …

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Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

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An absolute must for those who are nearby. The entry of 32.50 NZD is justifiable in my opinion. (As of May 2019) Parking is sufficiently available.
There is a brochure …

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Lake Ngakoro

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Who could only see the springs from afar. Should take a closer look at the "Hot 'n' Cold" spot. This is just a few meters south of the Wai-o-Tapu Centre. …

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Taupo Lakefront

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What could be better than a detour along the bike path along the lake to say goodbye to Taupo? The snow-capped mountains you see to the south are the Ruapehu, …

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Kinloch Bay on Lake Taupō

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This Kinloch Bay, near Taupo is a little paradise on earth! In good weather, no need to go to the Caribbean. You will find, in addition to a small friendly …

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View of Lake Rotoaira and Lake Taupo

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You could even see Lake Taupo in the distance

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Lake Karapiro

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This is the home of New Zealand rowing. There is a good watersports center here with a cool cafe (when it's open), launch areas for multiple water sports and play areas for kids.

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Kawakawa Bay Campsite and Shelter

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This is an un-walled shelter, along with grassy areas to pitch tents and a long drop toilet. It is well maintained. Pros sleeping under the shelter, you don't get a …

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Still not found your perfect lake in Waikato? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

Canterbury Otago Southland Tasman Marlborough Bay of Plenty West Coast (New Zealand)Auckland

The Top 16 Lakes in Waikato

Emerald Lakes

Blue Lake

Champagne Pool (Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland)

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Lake Ngakoro

Taupo Lakefront

Kinloch Bay on Lake Taupō

View of Lake Rotoaira and Lake Taupo

Lake Karapiro

Kawakawa Bay Campsite and Shelter

Other adventures in Waikato

Most popular routes in Waikato

Most popular attractions in Waikato

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

Explore more

Get ready to conquer new peaks

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