Exploring Hakatere Conservation Park
Hakatere Conservation Park, located about 600 metres above sea level, is a vast natural area spanning 60,000 hectares. Situated around the Ashburton Lakes and nestled between the Rakaia and Rangitata Rivers, this park offers a unique tussock landscape, backed by snow-capped mountains in Winter, that draws visitors for its stunning scenery. Te Araroa also passes through the Park.
Tussock Landscapes and Lakes
As you enter the Park, you will first encounter a handful of buildings associated with the historic Haketere Station. This is also the location of the park Visitor Centre. From there, you can turn north towards Lake Heron, the largest lake, or continue west to the main group of lakes, including Lake Clearwater with a small bach village. Either way, you'll pass through Fagans Downs, a wide, dry plain surrounded by distant mountains. This area is dotted with tussocks, lakes and wetlands, creating a striking contrast between dry and wet environments.
The larger lakes, such as Lake Camp Otautari, Lake Clearwater, and Lake Heron, are accessible by car. There is also a rough road to Lake Emma on the way to Lake Clearwater. Additionally, tracks are available for exploring several smaller lakes and some of the mountains.
Scenic Reflections
The lakes within Hakatere Conservation Park provide breathtaking reflections, especially on calm days. This provides excellent opportunities for photography and simply enjoying the serene beauty of the area.
How to Get There
To reach Hakatere Conservation Park, take Ashburton Gorge Road from the small town of Mt Somers on the edge of the Canterbury Plain, southeast of Methven and Mt Hutt on the Arundel Rakaia Gorge Road. As it enters the Park, the road changes to gravel. Head north on Hakatere Heron Road to get to Lake Heron, or continue west on Hakatere Potts Road to access Lake Clearwater and most other lakes.
From Lake Clearwater, you can continue west on Hakatere Potts Road, which takes you deep into the wide Rangitata River Valley. From there, you can access Mount Sunday. While in the wider mid-Caterbury region, visit Peel Forest and be sure to stop in Geraldine for a coffee and a bite to eat.
