Lake Kaurapataka

Lake Kaurapataka, also written Kāurupātaka, is a 34.9-hectare lake in native forest near the northern edge of Arthur’s Pass National Park. Reaching it means an expert backcountry trip from Aickens, not a quick roadside stop. Plan for six to seven hours over one or two days; the lake suits trampers prepared for river crossings and route-finding.

The route starts at Aickens car park beside SH73, about five kilometres west of Ōtira. You must ford the Ōtira River; if it is not easy to cross, postpone. From there, follow the orange markers to Clear Creek, continue along a 4WD access track to the signed Pfeifer Creek turnoff, then follow the creek bed for about 100 metres. The route passes through red-beech forest, crosses the stream draining the lake and climbs to the shore.

A one-day return is possible, but two days lets you camp beside the water instead of rushing back. Several lakeside camping spots are marked by cairns. Carry your own food and warm clothing for this remote trip. From the shore, frame the forested slopes across the water; calm reflections are the lake’s signature view.

The lake sits behind a hill south of the Taramakau River, surrounded mainly by indigenous forest. It covers 34.9 hectares and reaches 24.2 metres at its deepest point. Large native longfin eels have been reported here; they are protected, though a sighting is never assured.

Sediment cores indicate that the lake’s catchment has remained broadly stable for at least 1,200 years. Pollen and charcoal records preserve traces of forest and fire history, including evidence associated with Māori settlement and later European settlement in the wider region.

The lake lay outside Arthur’s Pass National Park’s original boundary. In 1931, the Board of Control recommended adjusting the boundary to include it, describing the scenery as exceptionally fine. The park’s northern edge was changed to take in this basin.