Benmore Dam is the largest earthen dam in the country and second largest producer of hydroelectricity. It was completed in 1965 and at the time was Aotearoa New Zealand’s biggest ever construction project.
This circuit track passes through a forest and around a peninsula jutting out into Lake Benmore. The views are very impressive -especially earlier in the mornings when the weather is generally calmest. Complete a loop or return the way you came.
Lake Benmore is New Zealand’s largest artificial lake, created by the Benmore Hydro-Dam. It is about 74km² and holds about 1.25 billion cubic meters of water – that’s 1.5 times the water in Wellington Harbour!
Lake Waitaki is the smallest, oldest and farthest downstream of the three man-made lakes of the Waitaki hydroelectric scheme. Close to Kurow, Lake Waitaki is below Aviemore and Benmore on the Waitaki River. It a great spot, popular for water-sports and fishing.
Pumpkin Point is a stunning spot around Lake Benmore, offering scenic views. It is a perfect place to unwind, bike along the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail or enjoy a picnic. With the kaleidoscopic change this area goes through the year, Pumpkin Point is a place to visit and visit
Sailors Cutting is a popular camping and fishing site for local Kiwis. A lovely resting spot on the shore of Lake Benmore, the view across the lake is a treat to behold.