Otematata combines a distinctive townscape with leisure opportunities at the lakes and in the wetlands. When planning, it helps to distinguish between what’s available in town, activities in the recreation area, and the Benmore Peninsula Walk, which is nearby and accessible from Otematata. This makes it possible to tailor a stay around the town’s character, water activities and interest in walking, without turning it into a fixed day-by-day itinerary.
Townscape and Wetlands
Many of the original T-shaped houses remain and shape the town’s southern townscape. This architectural character adds to the choice of activities, so the townscape, as well as the lakes and trails, can play a part in choosing your destination.
The Otematata Wetlands recreation area can be accessed from the area north of State Highway 83. There are also access points to campgrounds and a boat ramp from there. The wetlands are ideal for walking, picnicking, cycling and swimming. This offers several ways to spend time in the area: you can make exercise, a break and water activities different priorities.
A network of established, marked trails connects the Wildlife Reserve with the Boat Harbour Camp Grounds and allows you to take a circular route through the town. The trails are therefore a distinct option alongside individual activities in the wetlands: they link named areas and loop through the town.
Lakes and Leisure
In summer, the lakes near Otematata offer opportunities for water sports, swimming, cycling and walking. This seasonal focus can help you choose when to travel based on your preferred water activities.
Parsons Rock Campsite is on the shore of Lake Aviemore, where there are opportunities for fishing and other activities on the lake. If you’re considering camping, you can take into account the combination of a place to stay and lake activities. Otematata also has a nine-hole golf course, adding another activity in town to the options involving water and trails.
Benmore Peninsula Walk
The Benmore Peninsula Walk is accessible from Otematata via the end of the road above the Benmore hydroelectric dam. It passes through an exotic forest and around a peninsula that extends into Lake Benmore. Its scenery differs from that of the wetlands trails: the walk focuses on forest and peninsula, while the recreation area is characterised by its marked trail network and connections. Check current trail conditions before setting out.
Otago in the wider region
The wider Otago destination offers outdoor experiences in open tussockland, by lakes and in the mountains. One regional walking option is the 10 km Kānuka Track: it forms a loop through regenerating kānuka woodland and past striking rock bluffs, with views of Lake Dunstan and the Upper Clutha Valley along the way.
Discover more destinations: Waianakarua, Kakanui, Deborah, Omarama, Duntroon, Moeraki, Hampden, Black Point
For the wider travel overview: Waitaki District.
