Lake Emma / Kirihonuhonu is one of the first Ashburton Lakes after you enter the Hakatere Conservation Park. Emma is one of the middling lakes by size, but it is exceedingly pretty and a good place for a picnic. The lake was a significant food source for Ngai Tahu, and today, you can fish there for trout in season.
It is accessible from a short side road from the town of Mt Somers along Ashburton Gorge Road to Hakatere Potts Road, the main access road into the park. The lake access road is rated 4WD, but we had no trouble in a small car.
From Lake Emma, you can continue on the main road to Lake Camp and Lake Clearwater. A walking trail through the tussock grass is also an option.
6 images