Lake Mapourika

Lake Mapourika is the West Coast's largest lake, framed by native rainforest and often glass-still at dawn — perfect for a paddle with the Southern Alps reflected in the water. It's a short drive from Franz Josef Glacier and the Ōkārito kiwi sanctuary.

The DOC site sits by the lake among the bush; expect sandflies, damp West Coast weather and a proper wilderness feel. A great base for glaciers, rainforest walks and quiet water.

The lake sits ten minutes north of Franz Josef and makes a quieter base than the village itself. Its dark, tannin-stained water gives near-perfect reflections of the Southern Alps on a still morning, which is worth setting an alarm for. Sandflies here are relentless — keep the fly screens shut and put repellent on before you open the door, not after.