Pros & cons
PROS
- Panoramic 360° view that shows Moke Lake’s distinctive twin shape
- Superb sunrise, sunset, and night-sky photography
CONS
- Steep, unmarked spur that’s slippery in rain, snow, or ice
- Unofficial route with no signage; not suitable for children
Overview
A short, punchy climb rewards you with the classic bird’s‑eye view over Moke Lake—known traditionally as Punamāhaka and Waikāmāhaka—where its quirky “twin” shape really pops. It’s quieter than Queenstown’s headline spots and feels wonderfully wild despite being close to town.
How to Start
From the main Moke Lake car park, head right on the loop track and cross the small wooden bridge over the wetlands. Soon after the bridge, when the fence on your right ends and the loop veers left, turn right and follow the fence line away from the lake. After roughly 300 m you’ll pass a gate; continue a little farther to find a clearer, slightly less‑steep start to the faint spur up the hill.
The Climb
Expect it to be steep from the get‑go. It’s an unofficial, unmarked route taking roughly 45–60 minutes up, about 1.8 miles out‑and‑back overall, with meaningful leg burn. Only go in good weather—this hillside gets slick when wet or icy—and wear sturdy shoes. If you’re uneasy with exposure or bringing kids, give this one a miss and stick to the easy lake loop.
What You’ll See
From the flat clearing up top, you get sweeping views across the entire basin: mirror‑like water on calm days, folded tussock hills, and distant peaks. Down by the wetlands and pasture you’ll often spot ducks and, in nearby paddocks, sheep—lovely to photograph, but don’t feed wildlife and keep clear of fences.
Facilities Nearby
All the facilities sit at lake level: a large car park, public toilets, picnic tables, and a DOC campsite with non‑powered, first‑come sites (fees apply). There are no shops or water—bring everything you need.
Photography Tips
Go for calm conditions to nail those reflections. Sunrise and sunset light the lake beautifully; after dark, low light pollution makes this a handy astrophotography spot. A wide‑angle lens captures the lake’s shape best; a tripod helps for blue hour and stars.
Best Time to Visit
September through May offers the most reliable conditions. Summer is hot and exposed—carry water and sun protection. In winter, the final access road can be icy and may require 4WD and chains after snowfall; save the viewpoint for clear, dry days.
Where it is
-45.0026, 168.5773Tips for Moke Lake Viewpoint
- 01After the wetlands bridge, turn right along the fence line when the fence ends.
- 02Pass the gate and start the climb slightly farther on to avoid the steepest start.
- 03Aim for calm days for reflections; bring a wide‑angle lens for the top.
- 04Carry a headlamp if you’re timing it for sunrise, sunset, or stars.
- 05There’s no shade or services—pack water, sun protection, and snacks.
Amenities
Near Moke Lake Viewpoint
All places →All trails →
0.3 mi awayMoke Lake CampsiteBasic lakeside DOC camp with big views near QueenstownCampground · Restroom
0.3 mi awayMoke Lake LoopGentle lakeside loop with big reflections near QueenstownEasy · 4.3 mi · 2 hr
0.7 mi awayMoke LakeMirror-flat alpine lake with an easy loop and big night skiesTrailhead · Parking
1.9 mi awayBen LomondQueenstown’s signature summit day hike with huge lake and alpine viewsTrailhead · Restroom
2.5 mi awayBen Lomond SaddleWindy alpine saddle with huge Wakatipu views and a toiletScenic Viewpoint · Restroom
4.2 mi awayTiki TrailShort, steep climb to Skyline’s knockout Queenstown and Wakatipu views.Moderate · 2.6 mi · 2 hr
4.4 mi awayMoonlight TrackBackcountry traverse with gold-rush relics and big Shotover viewsChallenging · 11.2 mi · 5 hr
4.6 mi awayQueenstown Gardens Lakefront LoopEasy lakeside loop through Queenstown’s gardens with constant viewsEasy · 1.2 mi · 30 min
