Exploring Lake Dunstan
Lake Dunstan, located in Central Otago around Cromwell, is a hydro lake lying in the valleys and gorges between the Pisa Range to the northwest, the Dunstan Range to the east, and Carrick Range and Cairnmuir Mountains to the southwest. This lake, formed by the damming of the Clutha River / Mata-Au at Clyde, provides a picturesque setting and a variety of water activities. A visit to the old town of Cromwell, which was moved above the waterline during the lake's creation in 1992/1993, provides a look back at the area's gold-mining history.
Geography and Touring Routes
Lake Dunstan is a long artificial lake in Central Otago formed behind the Clyde Dam on the Clutha River / Mata‑au, covering about 26 square kilometres and filling in the Cromwell Gorge and adjacent lowlands. It stretches from the dam site in the Cromwell Gorge northwards past Cromwell and then winds toward the Kawarau River confluence before extending into broad flats near Lowburn. The northern stretch down to Cromwell is flanked by State Highway 8 on the east side, backed by the rising slopes of the Dunstan Range, and State Highway 6 on the west side, with the rugged Pisa Range rising behind gently sloping alluvial terraces planted extensively in vineyards and orchards. SH8 is particularly scenic, with views across the lake to the Pisa Range.
Between Pisa Moorings and Lowburn, the western lakeshore is marked by a distinct, steep terrace. This section of the lake is the broadest, and State Highway 6 runs close to the lakeside.
From Cromwell, the lake has a narrow arm southeast toward Bannockburn, which then turns sharply 90 degrees northwest toward the Kawarau Gorge, where the Kawarau River enters the lake. A second narrow arm continues southeast along the Cromwell Gorge to the Clyde Dam. A spectacular section of SH8 runs along the northeast side of the gorge with its incredibly rugged, rocky, golden tussock lands and steep, slip-prone sides.
Taking a Break
Along the shoreline, there are numerous scenic stopping places and panoramic lookout points. These include the Bendigo Freedom Camping Area, Lion Lookout and Davis Creek on the northeast side; the 45th Parallel and the reserve around McNulty Inlet near Cromwell on the west side; the Cromwell Gorge Picnic Area and other reserves towards Clyde; and Bannockburn Inlet. Camping, swimming, boating, and cycling are all popular activities.
The lake is also a photographer's dream. In calm, still conditions, you will get mirror‑like reflections. Two of the best viewpoints are the Bruce Jackson Lookout, where the two arms separate next to Cromwell, and the nearby Goldfields Memorial
Trails Around Lake Dunstan
The lake filled the Cromwell Gorge, creating a scenic drive on both sides of the lake with numerous stopping points. On the southwest side, the Lake Dunstan Trail is a 55-kilometre shared walking and cycling path. This trail is ideal for those seeking an active way to explore the area. Additionally, an easier network of trails begins at the lake edge at Pisa Moorings Cromwell, follows the lake's edge through the town, and extends to Bannockburn, where it connects with the Lake Dunstan Track.
Best Time to Visit
For the best experience, aim to visit Lake Dunstan earlier in the day when the water is more likely to be calm. This timing enhances the enjoyment of both the scenic views and the various trails available around the lake.
How to Get There
From Wānaka, the west side of Lake Dunstan is a 30-minute drive, 45 km. From Queenstown, the lake is 60 minutes, 62 km. For access to the east side of the lake from Wānaka, take SH8A from SH6 just before Luggate. This connects with SH8 south of Tarras. Turn south to follow the lake to Cromwell and the Cromwell Gorge.
On the northeast side of the lake, Bendigo is a particularly interesting place to explore with mining ruins and ghost towns high in the Dunstan Range. There are also numerous wineries on both sides of the north part of the lake and around Bannockburn.
