Lake Ōhau Lodge - Ahuriri Conservation Park
Lake Ōhau Lodge is a hotel near Ahuriri Conservation Park.
- Location
- Ahuriri Conservation Park, Otago & Southland, New Zealand, Australasia
- Type
- hotel
- Coordinates
- -44.229305, 169.815690
- Best season
- Summer for hiking/cycling, Winter for skiing/snowboarding
- Website
- https://www.ohau.co.nz/
- Activities
- hotel
- Rooms
- 72
- Child-friendly
- Yes
Best Time to Visit Lake Ōhau Lodge
The best months to visit Lake Ōhau Lodge are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Month-by-Month Safari Conditions
- January: Good, temperature 10.25°C, rainfall 123.8mm, sunshine 12 hrs, humidity 75%
- February: Good, temperature 9.61°C, rainfall 147.9mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 77.6%
- March: Poor, temperature 7.25°C, rainfall 127.8mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 80.3%
- April: Poor, temperature 5.12°C, rainfall 138.9mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 81.1%
- May: Poor, temperature 2.99°C, rainfall 145.4mm, sunshine 6.2 hrs, humidity 81%
- June: Poor, temperature 0.48°C, rainfall 147mm, sunshine 4.9 hrs, humidity 82.7%
- July: Poor, temperature -1.4°C, rainfall 187.5mm, sunshine 5.2 hrs, humidity 84.9%
- August: Poor, temperature -0.77°C, rainfall 185.6mm, sunshine 6.3 hrs, humidity 85.9%
- September: Poor, temperature -0.3°C, rainfall 291.9mm, sunshine 7.9 hrs, humidity 85.4%
- October: Poor, temperature 2.23°C, rainfall 216.2mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 84.7%
- November: Poor, temperature 5.98°C, rainfall 161.7mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 79.8%
- December: Poor, temperature 8.25°C, rainfall 152.6mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 79.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wildlife can we realistically expect to see near Lake Ōhau Lodge, given its proximity to Ahuriri Conservation Park?
While Ahuriri Conservation Park isn't your typical African savanna, we love the unique New Zealand birdlife you'll encounter. Keep your eyes peeled for the rare blue duck, or whio, on the rivers, and listen for the melodic calls of tui and bellbirds in the surrounding beech forests. It's a more subtle, but equally rewarding, wildlife experience.
We're planning a family trip. How child friendly is Lake Ōhau Lodge, and what activities are best suited for younger travelers?
Lake Ōhau Lodge is genuinely welcoming to families. During summer, the gentle walking trails around the lake are perfect for little legs, and the lodge itself offers plenty of space to roam. We also find the staff are excellent at making sure kids feel included, whether it's during meal times or suggesting easy exploration routes.
What's the best season to visit Lake Ōhau Lodge if we're keen on outdoor adventures, and what should we pack?
For hiking and cycling, we absolutely recommend visiting during the New Zealand summer months, from December to February. The days are long and the weather is generally settled. Pack layers, including waterproofs, as mountain weather can change quickly, and don't forget sturdy walking shoes and sun protection.
We're considering a winter visit for skiing. What's the atmosphere like at the lodge during this season, and how does it compare to summer?
Winter at Lake Ōhau Lodge has a cozy, inviting feel. While the focus shifts to the nearby ski fields, the lodge still feels luxurious and timeless. We love returning after a day on the slopes to a warm fire and hearty meals. It's a different pace than summer, more about relaxation and enjoying the dramatic, snow-dusted landscapes.
Beyond the lodge itself, what are some must-do experiences in the immediate vicinity that offer a true taste of the region?
We highly recommend taking a scenic drive along the shores of Lake Ōhau itself; the views are simply breathtaking. For a more active pursuit, a walk into Ahuriri Conservation Park offers stunning alpine scenery and a chance to truly disconnect. And of course, the sunsets over the lake are sensational, best enjoyed with a glass of local wine from the lodge's bar.
Other Safari Lodges in Ahuriri Conservation Park
- Ahuriri Base Hut
- Ahuriri Bridge Campsite
- Boots and Jandals Hotel
- Buscot Station
- Countrytime Hotel
- Dunstand Downs High Country Sheep Station, Homestead and Backpackers Accommodation
- Freedom Camping spot
- Greta Lodge
- Hagens Hut
- Hideaway Hut
- Lake Benmore Campground - Ohau C
- Lake Middleton Campsite
- Lake Ruataniwha Holiday Park
- Maitland Hut
- Omarama Top 10 Holiday Park
- Quailburn Campsite
- Round Bush Campsite
- Shamrock Hut
- Snowy Gorge Hut
- South Temple Hut
- Tin Hut
- wild camp area