West Coast Region

Lakes in West Coast Region

Lakes and Wetlands

The West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island features a diverse collection of glacial lakes and ancient wetland ecosystems. These water bodies, ranging from the mirror-like surfaces of Lake Matheson to the kahikatea-fringed shores of Lake Mapourika, were formed by retreating glaciers thousands of years ago. The region includes significant conservation areas like the Okarito wetland complex and Burmeister Morass, providing critical habitats for rare native bird species such as the kōtuku (white heron) and the New Zealand fernbird.

Lakes and Wetlands — Map

Tupaia123 / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Lake Mapourika

Lake Mapourika is located on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island.

Tom-Niklas Brüning / CC-BY-SA

B

Lake Matheson

Lake Matheson is a small glacial lake in South Westland, New Zealand, near the township of Fox Glacier.

C

Lake Moeraki

Lake Moeraki is a small lake on the Moeraki River on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand.

D

Lake Wahapo

Glacial lake surrounded by kahikatea forest within the Okarito Forest area.

E

Lake Ellery

A glacial lake accessible via a walking track through beech and podocarp forest near the Arawhata River.

F

Mirror Tarn

A small, still pond on the Heaphy Track known for its reflections of the surrounding mountains.

G

Lake Nisson

Remote lake located in the South Westland backcountry near the Haast River.

H

Lake Douglas

Backcountry lake situated in the Arawhata River valley within the Southern Alps.

I

Lake Rasselas

Small lake located in South Westland, near Lake Paringa.

J

Lake Paringa

Glacial lake off State Highway 6 surrounded by dense rainforest, known for trout and salmon fishing.

K

Ghost Lake

High-altitude lake at 1,200 meters, located along the Old Ghost Road tramping and cycling trail.

L

Alpine Lake

Small lake situated near the Okarito Lagoon and Lake Mapourika.

M

Lake Rotokino

Secluded lake north of Whataroa, surrounded by swamp forest and ancient kahikatea trees.

N

Lake Windermere

Small lake within the Okarito wetland complex, providing a habitat for the rare kōtuku (white heron).

O

Burmeister Morass

Significant wetland and peat bog ecosystem located in the Haast region.

Other Lists

West Coast Region Essentials New Zealand's Highest Peaks Majestic Glaciers and Ice Wilderness Huts & Alpine Shelters Waterfalls and Caves Best West Coast Campsites