Overview
Lake Pukaki is a stunning glacier-fed lake located in the Mackenzie Basin of New Zealand's South Island. It is situated in the heart of the Southern Alps and is surrounded by some of New Zealand's most stunning alpine scenery. The lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing and boating in the surrounding area. The region is also home to several historic sites and landmarks, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts.
Lake Pukaki Details | |
---|---|
Location | Lake Pukaki |
Region | Canterbury |
District Council | Mackenzie District |
Sub-District | Mackenzie District |
Postal Code: | - |
Current Time: | 07:58 AM |
Date: | Thursday, November 07, 2024(NZST) |
Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
Elevation / Altitude | 51.86 meters. Above Seal level |
Latitude | -44.1561 |
Longitude | 170.1280 |
DMS Lat | -45° 50' 38.1941'' |
DMS Long | 170° 7' 40.9062'' |
History
Lake Pukaki was formed during the last ice age and has been a significant source of freshwater for the region's flora and fauna ever since. The lake is named after the native Pukaki rock, which is a common feature in the surrounding area. 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. Today, Lake Pukaki is a popular destination for tourists, who come to experience its stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Geography
Lake Pukaki is situated in the Mackenzie Basin of New Zealand's South Island. The lake is fed by glacial meltwater and is surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, including the iconic Mount Cook. The region is known for its high altitude and cool temperatures, which help to maintain the lake's water levels and contribute to the stunning natural beauty of the area. The lake is also a popular destination for fishing, with salmon being the most commonly caught fish in the area.
Lake Pukaki is located at latitude -44.15605720 and longitude 170.12802950 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -45° 50' 38.1941'' and longitude 170° 7' 40.9062'' (DMS).
Below is map of Lake Pukaki
Demographics
The Lake Pukaki area has a very small permanent population, with most residents being farmers or involved in the tourism industry. The town of Twizel, located approximately 40 kilometers from Lake Pukaki, 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 Pukaki area has a cool, alpine climate with low rainfall throughout the year. The surrounding mountains receive heavy snowfall during the winter, making it an ideal location for skiing and snowboarding. The region experiences mild temperatures throughout the year, with warm summers and cool winters.
Lake Pukaki Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Lake Pukaki Live Weather
Overcast clouds
Humidity: 88%
Wind: 1.11 mt/sec towards NE
observed on 06 Nov 2024 21:00
Lake Pukaki Weather Forecast for Next 5 days
13.23°C to 15.23°C
Overcast clouds
17.35°C to 19.91°C
Overcast clouds
20.03°C to 20.03°C
Few clouds
20.57°C to 20.57°C
Overcast clouds
18.29°C to 18.29°C
Overcast clouds
16.84°C to 16.84°C
Overcast clouds
Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Lake Pukaki is home to several historic sites and landmarks, including the Mount John Observatory, which is a world-renowned astronomical observatory located on the lake's southern shore. Other popular tourist attractions include the Tasman Glacier, which is a stunning glacier located in the nearby Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and the Hooker Valley Track, which is a popular hiking trail that takes visitors through some of the region's most stunning alpine scenery.
Economy
The economy of the Lake Pukaki area is primarily based on tourism. The region is known for its stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities, which attract visitors from all over the world. The town of Twizel provides most of the services and amenities for the region, including shops, restaurants and accommodation options.
Nearby Schools
Sr. No. | School Name |
---|---|
1 | Aoraki Mount Cook School |
2 | Fairlie Area Kindergarten |
3 | Lake Tekapo Kindergarten |
4 | Lake Tekapo School |
5 | Omarama School |
Nearby Towns and Cities
Popular Towns and Cities | |
---|---|
Lake Pukaki | Lake Wardell |
Little Rhoboro Hills | Mount Cook Road, Ben Ohau |
Pukaki Downs | Pukaki High Dam |
Pukaki | Rhoboro Downs, Canterbury |
Rhoboro Downs | Tay Stream |