Huntly Lakes
Many lakes are scattered across the northern part of the Waikato, including the three Huntly lakes. They are mainly vestiges of the wetlands drained for farmland once Europeans arrived. Most are unattractive, as they are shallow and have suffered from adjacent farming activity. Practices are improving, but there is no quick fix. Other lakes are surrounded by private land and are effectively inaccessible.
However, you can easily access two shallow lakes in Huntly – Hakanoa and Waahi. A third, Puketirini, is an old open-cast coal mine that is much deeper. There are walks and cycle trails around Hakanoa and Puketirini, but Hakanoa is probably the best option. It offers replanted native bush and trees, Japanese, Global, Wildlife, Palm Beach, and Contemporary Māori gardens. There is also a Green Cathedral and wetlands.
Getting to the lakes is easy. Lake Hakanoa is a short drive from the main road on the east side of the river, with the best access from Taihua Road. Waahi and Puketirini are conveniently located next to each other on the west side of the river, with access from Weavers Crossing Road. It's a leisurely hour's walk to explore both Hakanoa and Puketirini.
