NZ
Northland

Kai Iwi lakes

296 Domain Road, Kai Iwi Lakes, Northland 0373 New Zealand

Open Now

Fri 12a-11:59p

Independent
Wheelchair
Accessible
Public
Restrooms

“The lakes that look so tropical you'll think you're in the tropics”

Over 100 years ago these lakes were prime gum digging territory with camps set up full of eager diggers looking for gold (of the gum kind). But in 1928 the area was protected and set aside as Lake Taharoa reserve. And thank goodness as now these freshwater lakes are a mecca for boat, kayak, paddleboard and waterskiing lovers, and swimmers. There also an extensive walking track around the reserve with sheltered camping and picnic area. It’s also only 2.5 km to the Tasman Sea (through an adjoining farm) if the incredibly clear fresh water is too much and you need to salt yourself up.

Situated 35km northwest of Dargaville, travel along State Highway 12 to the junction of Omamari Road, which is well signposted. Then it’s another 11km along Omamari Road to Kai Iwi Lakes Road to the domain.

Add Review

Thanks!

Your Rating

Reviewed by
wendyheadrick

1 Review
0 Helpful

December 26, 2019

Rated 5.0

Great swimming hole. Lake was large enough that some people were water skiing and jet skiing as well as paddle boarding and kayaking. The beach was pretty crowded but there is plenty of space around the outside of the week where you could pull off and find a small section that would go down to give you access to the water. We set up a blanket near a picnic table and just enjoyed being able to walk a few feet to the water and get in. It was so crystal clear even though we were 4 or 5 feet deep!

Was this helpful?

Be the first to add a review to the Kai Iwi lakes.