Lake Coleridge
A remote high country lake with trout fishing, jet boating, horse trekking, and silence.
Lake Coleridge sits in the high country northwest of Methven, flanked by the Rakaia and Harper Rivers and backed by the foothills of the Southern Alps. At 695 metres above sea level and stretching 17 kilometres in length, it is one of Canterbury's largest lakes and one of its least-visited — which is precisely its appeal. The drive from Methven along Lake Coleridge Road is itself a scenic journey through open tussock grassland and schist rock formations, with increasingly dramatic mountain views as you approach the lake.
The lake and surrounding catchment are managed for both conservation and power generation — the Lake Coleridge Power Station has operated since 1914, the first large-scale hydroelectric scheme in Canterbury. Visitor facilities are basic but the natural setting is outstanding. Trout fishing is the primary draw for many visitors: the lake and the rivers feeding it hold good populations of brown trout, and the area is considered one of Canterbury's better angling destinations. A valid Canterbury fishing licence is required.
For non-anglers, the area offers scenic drives, walking tracks on the surrounding hills, horse trekking, and jet boating on the lake and upper Rakaia River. The Lake Coleridge Village is a small settlement of holiday homes and permanent residents — there is no commercial development to speak of, which is a feature rather than a drawback. Bring your own food, water, and supplies.
What to expect
The 50-minute drive from Methven is part of the experience. The road passes through farmland before entering more rugged high country — watch for hawk and kārearea on the fence posts. Lake Coleridge Village sits at the southern end of the lake and is the primary access point. From here you can access the lake shore, the Power Station Intake road (excellent for views), and the start of several walking tracks.
Trout fishing is best in the early morning and evening, particularly in the rivers and stream mouths. Brown trout up to 5kg are caught in the lake. A Canterbury fishing licence is required and available online from Fish & Game New Zealand. The regulations are specific to the waterway, so read them before fishing.
Walking options include the Lake Hill Track (accessed from Intake Road) and the Peak Hill Walk (from Algidus Road) — both offer exceptional views over the lake and surrounding ranges. These are moderately graded tracks suitable for most walkers. Bring sufficient water and wear layers — high country weather can change rapidly.
Best time to visit
Lake Coleridge is accessible year-round but the roads can be affected by snow and ice in winter — check conditions before heading out. Autumn (March–May) is the most beautiful season visually, with tussock turning golden and crystal-clear lake water after summer. The fishing season runs October to April. Spring and summer are ideal for walking and horse trekking when the days are long and the weather more settled.
Insider tips
- ✓Fill up with fuel in Methven — there is no petrol station at Lake Coleridge Village.
- ✓Bring everything you need for the day: food, water, sun protection and layers. There are no shops or cafés at the lake.
- ✓A Canterbury fishing licence is available online from Fish & Game NZ (fishandgame.org.nz) before your visit.
- ✓The drive along the south shore of the lake to the Power Station Intake is excellent even if you are not walking the tracks — the views from the road are spectacular.
- ✓Horse trekking in the area is available through operators in the wider Methven district — enquire at the Methven i-SITE for current operator details.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Lake Coleridge from Methven?
Lake Coleridge is approximately 45km northwest of Methven, around 50 minutes by car via Lake Coleridge Road. The road is sealed throughout and suitable for standard vehicles in normal conditions.
What fishing is available at Lake Coleridge?
Lake Coleridge holds brown trout and is considered one of Canterbury's quality fishing destinations. Fishing requires a valid Canterbury fishing licence available from Fish & Game NZ (fishandgame.org.nz). The fishing season runs October to April.
Are there walking tracks at Lake Coleridge?
Yes — the Lake Hill Track (accessed from Intake Road) and Peak Hill Walk (from Algidus Road) are the main options, both offering exceptional high country views. These are moderately graded tracks suitable for most walkers. Allow 2–4 hours for either track.
Is there accommodation at Lake Coleridge?
There is limited accommodation at Lake Coleridge Village itself. Most visitors stay in Methven and do Lake Coleridge as a day trip. Visit Methven offers self-contained holiday homes in Methven — browse at visitmethven.co.nz/stay.
Practical information
Hours
Open year-round. Fishing season October–April (Canterbury licence required).
Price
Free public access to lake. Activities priced separately.
Location
Lake Coleridge Road, Lake Coleridge Village, 45km northwest of Methven (45km northwest of Methven)
Stay near Lake Coleridge
Self-contained holiday homes in Methven — book direct and save.
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