Attraction

Lake Wakatipu

Lake Wakatipu is a glacial lake in Otago's Queenstown-Lakes District, New Zealand's longest lake at about 80 kilometres, with a maximum depth of roughly 380 metres. Queenstown sits on its eastern shore. Visitors can walk the lakefront, take a scenic cruise, or ride the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw; most cruises depart from Queenstown's central wharf.

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How to get there

Lake Wakatipu runs directly alongside Queenstown, so the lakefront and town wharf are within walking distance of most central accommodation. The TSS Earnslaw steamship and other lake cruises depart from Steamer Wharf in town. Further along the lake, Glenorchy sits at the northern end, roughly a 45-minute drive from Queenstown on a sealed road that follows the shoreline. No boat is required to view the lake, but cruises and water-based activities need advance booking in peak season.

Approximate location

Approximate location

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Quick answers

How long is Lake Wakatipu?
Lake Wakatipu is about 80 kilometres long, making it New Zealand's longest lake. It reaches a maximum depth of roughly 380 metres and sits at the foot of the Remarkables mountain range near Queenstown.
Can you take a boat cruise on Lake Wakatipu?
Yes. The vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and several other operators run scenic cruises from Steamer Wharf in central Queenstown, with options ranging from short harbour trips to cruises across the lake to Walter Peak.
A vintage steamship with a red funnel on a long glacial lake surrounded by jagged mountains.
Photo: Go Do Something Fun · First-party AI-generated artwork © Suppers Software Limited

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