Lake Hood Anchorage
Lake Hood offers a vibrant mix of water sports, family fun, and scenic relaxation in Ashburton, New Zealand.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, not too hot or cold.
Lake Hood Anchorage
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, not too hot or cold.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Lake Hood offers a vibrant mix of water sports, family fun, and scenic relaxation in Ashburton, New Zealand.
"Beautiful spot for recreation with jet boats & jet skiers enjoying themselves on the water."
Pack for Algae
Swimming conditions can vary due to algae. Check local reports before planning a swim. :swimmer:
Golf Course Etiquette
Help keep the golf course clean by disposing of trash properly. :golf:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Water Sports Hub
Lake Hood
Experience the thrill of jet skiing and power boat racing on the clear waters of Lake Hood.
Scenic Golfing
Lake Hood Golf Course
Enjoy a round of golf with unique wildlife encounters, including friendly fantails.
Family Fun Zone
Lake Hood Playground
A great spot for children to play, with ample space for family picnics and outdoor activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Lake Hood
Activities and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for Algae
Swimming conditions can vary due to algae. Check local reports before planning a swim. :swimmer:
Golf Course Etiquette
Help keep the golf course clean by disposing of trash properly. :golf:
Enjoy the Views
The scenic views are a highlight, perfect for a relaxing drive or picnic. :camerawithflash:
Eventful Waters
Look out for exciting events like jet ski championships. :racing_car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for Algae
Swimming conditions can vary due to algae. Check local reports before planning a swim. :swimmer:
Golf Course Etiquette
Help keep the golf course clean by disposing of trash properly. :golf:
Enjoy the Views
The scenic views are a highlight, perfect for a relaxing drive or picnic. :camerawithflash:
Eventful Waters
Look out for exciting events like jet ski championships. :racing_car:
Kid-Friendly Play
The playground is a hit with children, making it a great family destination. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lake Hood is a beloved spot for recreation, praised for its scenic beauty and diverse activities like jet skiing and golf. Visitors appreciate the family-friendly playground and the peaceful atmosphere, especially on weekdays. Some concerns have been raised about litter on the golf course and occasional algae blooms affecting swimming conditions.
"I absolutely love coming out to visit, whether it be to swim in warmer weather (when you can swim and there isn't algae everywhere). Usually, there is plenty of space to park up and have you'd own privacy not too close to others. They have public toilets close to the small bridge you go over past the restaurant.
My dad and brothers love to go to the golf course here. They have the payment box/score cards/pens available. The course is 9 holes, and I've found that at hole 2/3, there seem to be 2 brown/black fantails that will fly around you and follow a bit!
The only downside to the golf course is that there seems to be multiple empty beer bottles or cans dropped near the bushes on the holes because people have been drinking there which i hope they don't ruin it for everyone. I think there should be a couple of rubbish bins along the course! Always love coming here and have since I was a child!"
Chloe Jamieson
"We love coming here to visit, the views are very nice, the area is always clean & tidy, nice to see jet boats & jet skiers enjoying themselves on the water. Great place to bring your children to play in the playground, it's not a suitable place for swimming though, just other water activities."
Charlotte Maxwell
"Went for a drive to Lake Hood just for a noisey as id lived in rakaia many years ago and Lake Hoodwasnt around then. Pleasant drive, lovely homes, got a pizza at The Landing. Good service, got a spot in the sun inside. Suited me well."
Tracey Siepkes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Hood is located in Ashburton, a scenic drive from Christchurch. Take State Highway 1 South, and follow the signs for Lake Hood. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. :car:
Yes, Lake Hood is easily accessible by car with ample parking available, especially on weekdays. :parking:
Public transport options directly to Lake Hood are limited. It's best to travel by car or consider a private tour from nearby cities like Christchurch or Ashburton. :bus:
The drive along State Highway 1 offers pleasant views. Consider stopping in Ashburton town for amenities before heading to the lake. :road:
Yes, Lake Hood is suitable for campervans and RVs, with plenty of space for parking. Many van-lifers enjoy the scenic spots. :camper_van:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lake Hood is generally free to access for recreational purposes. There are no specific entry tickets required for the lake itself. :free_entrance:
Parking at Lake Hood is typically free. You'll find ample space, especially during off-peak times. :parking:
Yes, there is a fee for playing at the Lake Hood Golf Course. Payment is usually handled through an honesty box system on-site. :moneywithwings:
Lake Hood is accessible year-round, with no set opening or closing hours for general access. :clock1:
While generally open for recreation, specific events might have temporary restrictions. Always check for local notices. :warning:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming (weather and algae permitting), jet skiing, power boating, picnicking, playing at the playground, and golfing. :kayak: :golf:
Swimming is possible during warmer months, but be aware of potential algae blooms which can affect water quality. :droplet:
Yes, public toilets are available near the small bridge, close to The Landing restaurant. :toilet:
You might encounter fantails, especially around the golf course, and various birdlife around the lake. :bird:
Yes, Lake Hood features a playground that is popular with families. :child:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, 'The Landing' restaurant is located at Lake Hood and offers dining options, including pizza. :pizza:
Absolutely! Lake Hood is a great spot for picnics, with plenty of space and scenic views. :picnic_table:
The primary dining option at Lake Hood is 'The Landing'. For more choices, you would need to travel back to Ashburton town. :forkandknife:
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. :sandwich:
While 'The Landing' offers meals, it's advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks, especially if visiting outside of restaurant hours. :water_bottle:
📸 📸 Photography
The lake shores offer beautiful reflections, especially during sunrise and sunset. The surrounding homes and the golf course also provide scenic backdrops. :camerawithflash:
Lake Hood's open spaces and scenic views make it a good location for drone photography, but always check local regulations regarding drone usage. :drone:
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. :sunriseovermountains:
Yes, keep an eye out for local birdlife, especially fantails near the golf course, for unique photo opportunities. :bird:
The small bridge over the water and the modern homes surrounding the lake can make for interesting photographic subjects. :bridgeatnight:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Van Life & Road Trippers
⛳ Golf Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Water Sports and Recreation
Beyond the high-octane water sports, Lake Hood is also a fantastic spot for picnics and family outings. The presence of a playground makes it an engaging destination for children, while the scenic surroundings offer a peaceful backdrop for relaxation.
For those who prefer activities on land, the Lake Hood Golf Course offers a unique 9-hole experience. A notable aspect of golfing here is the chance to be accompanied by local fantails, adding a touch of wildlife charm to the game.
Exploring the Lake Hood Area
For dining, The Landing restaurant is a key amenity within Lake Hood, offering options like pizza and a pleasant indoor seating area.
When planning your visit, consider the spring season for a particularly enjoyable experience. The weather is typically mild, not too hot or cold, making it ideal for outdoor activities and picnics.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit