Lake Ōhākurī

Lake Ōhākurī (Whirinaki Arm) can be found over 4km southwest of Ngakuru. The reserve is located on Whirinaki Valley Road, 4.5km south of Ngakuru. Both the reserve and the lake are used for boating and waterskiing. Due to electricity generation, the lake levels tend to rise and fall radically from time to time.

Lake Ōhākurī is the largest artificial lake of the Waikato River system. Construction of the dam began in 1956 and was completed in 1960. The lake was filled over 14 days in January and February 1961. This drowned two thirds of the Orakei Korako geothermal area, including two of the world's largest geysers, Minginui Geyser and Orakei Korako Geyser.

The sheltered lake is known for its calm waters and is a popular spot with wakeboarders and water skiers. The lake is also a popular place to fish for rainbow and brown trout.

Reserve facilities:

• Barbeques (electric, on timer)
• Picnic tables
• Public toilets
• Boat ramp.

Treasure this place - take your rubbish with you.