Ohau Snow Fields and Lake Ohau Lodge

Although best known for the Ohau Snow Fields, the wider Ohau area has plenty of great activities that can be enjoyed over the summer months.

Located within the Ruataniwha Conservation Park, Lake Ohau Lodge is open all year round and is an excellent base for exploring this spectacular wilderness area.
 

Tramping, Walking and Hiking

The Ruataniwha Conservation Park offers a wide range of excellent walks - from short walks to full day hikes to multi-day tramping trips. For information on the various walks near Lake Ohau Lodge, browse the Ruataniwha Conservation Park activities information on the Department of Conservation website.

 

Mountain Biking

There are some great mountain biking trails in the Ruataniwha Conservation Park - some near Lake Ohau Lodge. For details, view the Mountain Biking in Ruataniwha Conservation Park information on the Department of Conservation website.

 

Hunting & Fishing

The areas surrounding Lake Ohau Lodge are known to have red deer, chamois and thar, as well as some pigs and wallabies - all of which can be hunted. Detailed information on the various hunting blocks near Lake Ohau Lodge can be found on the Department of Conservation website.

Fishing for brown trout and rainbow trout is also popular during the summer months in the tributaries of Lake Ohau, and the lake itself. Follow this link for information on fishing in Lake Ohau from nzfishing.com. DOC also has some fishing information for the Ohau area.

 

Kaki/Black Stilts

The Mackenzie Basin is home to one of the world's rarest wading birds - the Black Stilt or Kaki. With an easy drive from Lake Ohau Lodge, you can visit the Kaki/Black Stilt visitor hide and see these rare and fascinating birds close up.

Clay Cliffs

Take the short drive from Lake Ohau Lodge to the spectacular Clay Cliffs, near Omarama. These natural pinnacle formations are popular with photographers and budding geologists for their unusual and intricate shapes and intriguing geological formation.

 

Gliding

Omarama is also world-renowned for its spectacular gliding conditions. The unique alpine environment, thermal air flows and wave systems found in Omarama make it the perfect place for a glider flight or lesson. And don't miss the world gliding competitions held in this tiny township!