Lake Pukaki, Alpine lake in Mackenzie District, New Zealand
Description
Lake Pukaki is an alpine lake in the Canterbury Region fed by glacial meltwater that gives it an intense turquoise color. The water's distinctive hue comes from fine sediments flowing from nearby glaciers into the lake.
History
The lake basin was dammed twice in the 20th century to generate hydroelectric power and increase water capacity. These interventions permanently altered the landscape and shoreline.
Culture
The Pukaki Scientific Reserve near the lake protects 32 hectares of land and provides a habitat for native species including the Izatha psychra moth.
Practical
Traveling along State Highway 8 passes several viewpoints where you can observe the lake and mountain scenery. The best time for clear views is on calm days when the water surface is less disturbed.
Did you know?
The shoreline hosts an International Dark Sky Reserve with minimal light pollution, enabling outstanding observations of the night sky. On clear nights, visitors can see stars and cosmic phenomena with great clarity.
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New Zealand's South Island has many places that show the variety of this region in the South Pacific. The landscapes range from the deep fjords of Milford Sound to the glaciers of Fox and Franz Josef, from the snowy peaks of Aoraki/Mount Cook to the golden beaches of Abel Tasman. Towns like...
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