Lake Benmore is New Zealand's largest artificial lake. Located in the South Island of New Zealand and part of the Waitaki River, and a maximum depth of 90 meters. and the lake was filled in December 1964.

After the lake was created the incidence of seismic shocks increased by a factor of three to six times.

Uses

Besides being a reservoir for Benmore Dam, the lake is a fishing spot; in 2009 it was the second most-fished lake in New Zealand, with fish such as brown trout, rainbow trout, chinook salmon, and sockeye salmon. Fish in the lake include salmon that have escaped from salmon farms on nearby hydro canals. The lake is also used for swimming and camping and there are walks in the area.

Climate

See also

  • Electricity sector in New Zealand
  • Lakes of New Zealand
  • List of lakes in New Zealand

References

  • Map of Waitaki District showing Lake Benmore bordering the Mackenzie and Waimate Districts