Blue Lake in Nelson, New Zealand: The Clearest Lake in the World

When most people think of New Zealand, they may imagine rolling hills, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. And while New Zealand is famous for its natural beauty, there is one lake that stands out above the rest: Blue Lake in Nelson.

Blue Lake is known for being the clearest lake in the world, with visibility up to 80 meters. To put this into perspective, the average swimming pool has a visibility of about 5-6 meters. Blue Lake is almost as optically clear as distilled water, making it an incredible natural wonder that is not to be missed.

The lake is located in Nelson Lakes National Park, which is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Blue Lake is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and fishing, and visitors are often amazed at how clear the water is.

The lake is fed by the cold, clear waters of the surrounding mountains, which contributes to its clarity. The lake’s temperature remains at a chilly 8 degrees Celsius year-round, making it unsuitable for swimming for extended periods of time.

Blue Lake is also significant for its cultural and spiritual importance to the local Maori people. They believe that the lake is a sacred site and is home to a taniwha, a guardian spirit.

In addition to its cultural significance, Blue Lake is also important for scientific research. The lake’s clarity has allowed scientists to study the effects of climate change on freshwater ecosystems. The lake’s water quality is closely monitored to ensure that it remains in pristine condition.

Visitors to Blue Lake should take care to respect the environment and avoid disturbing the delicate ecosystem. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including the native longfin eel.

In conclusion, Blue Lake in Nelson, New Zealand, is an incredible natural wonder and an important site for both cultural and scientific research. Its clarity is unparalleled and makes it a must-see destination for anyone visiting New Zealand.