Kai Iwi Lakes is a popular holiday location on the Kauri Coast, 35 km north of Dargaville. The three dune lakes formed over 1.8 million years ago by accumulated rainwater in sand depressions and basins. The underlying ironstone prevents water from leaking away. The lakes are surrounded by white sand within the 538-hectare Taharoa Domain. The combination of white sand and clear water makes them perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. You can also hike around the lakes, and a 2.5 km walkway across a farm provides access to Ripiro Beach on the Tasman Sea coast.
The largest lake, Lake Taharoa, covers 240 hectares and is up to 37 metres deep. It is the easiest to access, with a significant grassed reserve area on the south side and two campgrounds - Pine Beach and Promenade Point - at the east and west ends, respectively. Taharoa sits between two smaller lakes, Lake Waikere and Lake Kaiiwi. Lake Waikere (35 hectares) is known for water skiing. Keep an eye out for ski lane ropes if you are swimming. Lake Kaiiwi is the smallest at 27.6 hectares and has a depth of up to 15.7 meters. It is the least attractive of the lakes for swimming, but it is a pleasant walk. Taharoa and Waikere are stocked with trout annually.
The lakes used to be surrounded by mature exotic pine trees, especially around the campgrounds. However, these were removed years ago, and the area was replanted with natives. The walks take you around the lakes and through the forest regrowth.
Kai Iwi Lakes are north of Dargaville on the Kauri Coast. Take State Highway 12 and turn west on Omamari Road at the Kai Iwi Lakes sign. Then turn north onto Kai Iwi Lakes Road.
