Lake Manapouri | South Island | New ZealandGuest post by Jennifer Branje | Southproud.co.nz

The small township of Manapouri is cloaked in ethereal beauty. Not many inhabited destinations are totally ‘owned’ by nature but this wee dot on the edge of Fiordland National Park is some of Mother Nature’s best work!

The township of Manapouri skirts the edge of the Lake and the Waiau River.

During the 1950’s as part of a local hydroelectric power scheme, the plan was to flood this pristine natural wilderness to enable power generation. During the 70's,  opposition saw the lake saved in a very heated political debate. Nationwide radio stations belted out the opposition anthem ‘Damn the Dam’ to rally support. Subsequently, Lake Manapouri was saved in New Zealand’s first environmental awakening.

More than 30 small islands rise from the depths of Lake Manapouri, New Zealand’s second deepest at almost 450 metres. With a circumference of 170 odd kilometres, there are many sandy bays and coves to explore. The water is clear, crisp and chilly, though it does warm up in the summer months. You can drive down to Frasers Beach and along the waterfront where there is plenty of parking and public facilities. 

Kayaking, boating and fishing are some of the many activities available to compliment stunning walking tracks, hikes and commercial cruise options. Manapouri is the gateway to Doubtful Sound and there are guided trips to the West Arm Power Station which is the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. The Manapouri Track entices many a keen mountain biker and provides an exquisite 4-hour excursion for those on foot.

Several other more remote walks are available requiring the services of a water taxi to gain access.  

Manapouri has several accommodation options that cater to all requirements. Possum Lodge on the lakes edge is unpretentious and relaxed with an artisan feel. The gardens and grounds are rich with native birdlife. Lake front walks are close by and the staff are friendly and welcoming. 

Fiordland is notorious for sand flies so we do recommend using insect repellent if you are venturing into the bush on any of the local walkways.  

Manapouri is leisurely and unhurried. The vibe harks back to a time when stopping to chat to your neighbour on the street was a daily ritual and life was uncomplicated. Sometimes, checking out of the mundane and heading to a spot that has everything you need on a miniature scale is the best form of rejuvenation.  With the majesty of untamed wilderness wherever you look, Manapouri is a most rewarding haven of natural beauty. Anyone with an affinity for nature will find Manapouri a very hard place to leave.