The Great Lakes of New Zealand for Boating and Jet Skiing

Around New Zealand are some of the most pristine lakes and rivers. For a fantastic day of fun in the sun, or weeklong holidays by the sea, there are so many places to go for boat access to the water. From the stunning Bay of Islands in the north, to Lake Wanaka in Otago, there is a place that is just perfect no matter what you have planned. 

For some of the best boating, waterskiing and jet skiing the North island has to offer, there really is no substitute for the many lakes dotting the Waikato River. One such lake, Whakamaru, just half an hour north of Taupo, is a pristine example of these. With a campsite nestled in pine forests, and ramp access to the lake itself, Whakamaru is a renowned waterskiing retreat, and generally quieter than the nearby Lake Ohakuri. Also on the Waikato trail, this spot is a must visit for those looking for an adventure destination for the summer.

The next lake on the river, separated by dams, is Lake Maraetai. A wildly popular summer destination for the boating enthusiast population of the North Island, this is a perfect stop for a family summer holiday. Near the town of Mangakino, the lake supports a thriving community for all kinds of water sport enthusiasts, from jet skiing and water skiing, to kayaks and paddle boards.

No discussion on boating in New Zealand is complete without acknowledging the incredible Bay of Islands, with its globally renowned sailing, and the several iconic coastal towns in the Bay to visit. Featuring the first capital of New Zealand, Russell is a town designed to be visited by boat. Across the Bay, Paihia is one of New Zealand’s definitive summer destinations, with the historic site, Waitangi just up the coast. Centered around the Te Rawhiti Inlet is a chain of islands and mainland bays which form an incredible array of beaches and coves to offer shelter in any conceivable weather condition, partly what makes the Bay so appealing to sailors. Opito bay, among all of these, stands out as one of New Zealand’s most well known sailing destinations.

The Kai Iwi Lakes nestled within the Taharoa Domain, are one of New Zealand’s best holiday spots to stay and play in. Only three hours from Auckland, 35 kilometres from Dargaville. The Lakes sit amongst 538 hectares of premier recreation reserve with white sand, freshwater dune lakes that are renowned for their jewel-like beauty and clear waters.

Perfect for a wonderful camping experience with the choice of two campgrounds located right on the lake shore, both offering an ideal camping experience for tents, caravans or motorhomes.

Lake Tikitapu, or the Blue Lake, is another popular spot for water skiing and jet skiing. Situated between Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty, Tikitapu is the smallest of four neighbouring lakes, but is commonly the focus of triathlons and other water sports in the area. Also featuring access to a huge selection of hiking trails and camping sites, Tikitapu is a must see when exploring the Bay of Plenty region.

Famous across New Zealand for some of the best kayaking, parasailing, paddleboarding, sailing, water skiing and windsurfing, Lake Taupo is a frequent stop almost all year round, even in winter for the truly brave! With almost every lakeside or water based attraction imaginable, Taupo is an ideal stop for any holiday, in addition to a plethora of action adventure attractions in the region, from cave diving and glow worms to the nearby Tongariro National Park.

For those looking for more breathtaking visuals, Lake Wakatipu, near Queenstown, is nestled amongst the Remarkables, and the view is not one to miss! From scenic trips across the river aboard a restored steamboat, to incredible trout fishing spots, Lake Wakatipu is an iconic spot to experience New Zealand from. Bordering the Lake, you will find Queenstown and the villages of Kingston, Glenorchy, and Kinloch. Brimming with stunning vistas many will recognise from the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, the entire region is a delight to explore.

Lastly, but certainly not least, Lake Wanaka is one of the crown jewels of the Southern Alps. A spectacular attraction year round. It’s boating and sailing in the summer attracts visitors from around the globe. In winter, four diverse ski fields offer endless options to skiers and snowboarders. In spring and autumn, the lakeside crowds with hikers and explorers seeking to take in the vibrant landscape.

The opportunities for boating, skiing and sailing trips around New Zealand this summer are positively limitless. Credit One has smarter finance options available at a click of a button. Credit One provides smarter finance and makes getting a boat loan, jet ski loan, yacht loan or a commercial fishing vessel easy. To learn more click here.