When someone mentions New Zealand, the iconic Lake Tekapo is likely one of the first things that will come to mind. Understandably, most couples visit the beautiful Lake Tekapo for their pre-wedding photoshoot, but that makes it heavily over-rated.
If you don’t want to jump on the bandwagon, we have good news for you!
Here is a list of the 5 best lakes in New Zealand that are non-mainstream and equally stunning. Your friends are going to be pestering you to tell them where you took your photos!
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1. Lake Wakatipu
Starting off with the third largest lake in New Zealand, you may have walked past this lake many times without knowing its name. Popular for its extreme sports, Queenstown is a tourist hotspot and one of the most happening towns in New Zealand. What many people do not know is that it is surrounded by the majestic Lake Wakatipu.
From Queenstown’s charming jetties to its neighbouring small town – Glenorchy, there are so many photoshoot places overlooking the lake that many people are unaware of!
2. Lake Hayes
Probably the most under-rated lake on this list, Lake Hayes deserves so much more attention. The true beauty of this lake shines during Autumn, when the dense foliage surrounding it turns a dazzling golden. New Zealand’s trees are evergreen but this is one of the best places to witness the rare changing colours of Autumn.
The nearby Arrowtown is a only a short 10mins drive away and is lined with quaint little cafes and vibrant boutiques that are excellent for photos as well. This place is truly a hidden gem and you can’t give it a miss!
3. Lake Wanaka
The forth largest lake and home to the most unique tree of New Zealand. Thousands of photographers have visited this lake just to photograph the crack willow tree that appears to be floating on water.
Unfortunately, due to its immense popularity, tourists are unintentionally damaging it during their photoshoots. The New Zealand Tourism Board recently placed a notice that they will be keeping a close eye on this beautiful tree. Hurry have a photoshoot with it before it’s too late!
Lake Wanaka is even more stunning from coromandel peak, where you can have a panoramic view of this vast lake that stretches beyond the horizon. If we had to pick the best photo spot in New Zealand, this will probably be it. There is simply no other place that can achieve this view and you will definitely regret leaving New Zealand without a photoshoot here. Find out how you can have a photoshoot at Coromandel Peak here: New Zealand Helicopter Shoots
4. Lake Pukaki
If you ever forget which lake is which, just remember that Lake Pukaki is the one with the most striking turquoise waters. This lake is so breathtaking that it was chosen to be part of “The Hobbit”. Lake Pukaki makes for an amazing photoshoot location with the snow capped mountains in its backdrop, one of them being Mt. Cook, the tallest alpine in New Zealand.
5. Avon River
This is not exactly a lake but it is a charming river for your photoshoot. The river flows through the centre of Christchurch and offers you a different angle of looking at the city. Punting is popular along this river and you can have your photos taken on these mesmerising little boats. It is a great way to have your photos taken while enjoying a peaceful tour around Christchurch.
If you are wondering when is the best time to visit New Zealand for a photoshoot, you can find some inspirations from our photos taken in New Zealand from all season. However, Autumn in New Zealand is an especially popular time to visit. Engage our experienced photographers for your pre-wedding photoshoot from our website!
