Overview
Lake Coleridge is a glacial lake located in the Canterbury region of New Zealand's South Island. It is situated in the foothills of the Southern Alps and is surrounded by rugged mountains and stunning alpine scenery. The lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing and skiing in the surrounding mountains. The region is also home to several historic sites and landmarks, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts.
Lake Coleridge Details | |
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Location | Lake Coleridge |
Region | Canterbury |
District Council | Selwyn District |
Postal Code: | 7572 |
Current Time: | 01:52 AM |
Date: | Friday, October 10, 2025(NZST) |
Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
Elevation / Altitude | 52.28 meters. Above Seal level |
Latitude | -43.3660 |
Longitude | 171.5326 |
DMS Lat | -44° 38' 2.5305'' |
DMS Long | 171° 31' 57.3568'' |
History
Lake Coleridge was named after Edward Coleridge, a prominent English lawyer who was also a member of the Canterbury Association, which played a significant role in the early settlement of New Zealand. The lake was formed during the last ice age and has been a significant source of hydroelectric power for the region since the early 1900s. The lake and its surrounding mountains played a crucial role in the lives of the local Maori people for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century.
Geography
Lake Coleridge is situated in the Canterbury region of New Zealand's South Island. The lake is fed by glacial meltwater and is surrounded by rugged mountains and alpine vegetation. The region is known for its high rainfall, which helps to maintain the lake's water levels and contributes to the stunning natural beauty of the area. The lake is also a popular destination for fishing, with trout being the most commonly caught fish in the area.
Lake Coleridge is located at latitude -43.36596376 and longitude 171.53259910 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -44° 38' 2.5305'' and longitude 171° 31' 57.3568'' (DMS).
Below is map of Lake Coleridge
Demographics
The Lake Coleridge area has a very small permanent population, with most residents being farmers or involved in the tourism industry. The town of Methven, located approximately 40 kilometers from Lake Coleridge, is the closest population center and provides most of the services and amenities for the region. The area is predominantly European, with a small Maori and Pacific Islander community.
Climate
The Lake Coleridge area has a cool, temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. The region receives a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with most precipitation occurring in the winter months. The surrounding mountains receive heavy snowfall during the winter, making it an ideal location for skiing and snowboarding.
Lake Coleridge Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Lake Coleridge Live Weather
Overcast clouds
Humidity: 92%
Wind: 3 mt/sec towards NW
observed on 09 Oct 2025 15:00
Lake Coleridge Weather Forecast for Next 5 days
14.4°C to 14.47°C
Overcast clouds
18.92°C to 18.92°C
Broken clouds
18.95°C to 18.95°C
Broken clouds
18.41°C to 18.41°C
Broken clouds
16.35°C to 16.35°C
Light rain
11.3°C to 11.3°C
Moderate rain
Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Lake Coleridge is home to several historic sites and landmarks, including the Lake Coleridge Power Station, which is New Zealand's second-oldest hydroelectric power station and is open for tours. Other popular tourist attractions include the Methven Heritage Trail, which takes visitors on a journey through the town's rich history and the nearby Mount Hutt Ski Area, which is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Economy
The economy of the Lake Coleridge area is primarily based on agriculture and tourism. The region is known for its high-quality wool and dairy products, which are produced by local farmers. Tourism is also an important contributor to the local economy, with visitors flocking to the area to experience its stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The town of Methven provides most of the services and amenities for the region, including shops, restaurants and accommodation options.
Nearby Schools
Sr. No. | School Name |
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1 | Leap Ahead Early Childhood Centre |
2 | Methven Playcentre |
3 | Methven Pre-school Learning & Child Care Centre |
4 | Methven School |
5 | Mount Hutt College |