The reserve is a popular place for a range of outdoor activities including walking, swimming and kayaking.
There are two lakes at Roto Kōhatu - Lake Tahi, a privately leased lake for club members only, and Lake Rua, a public lake popular for swimming, dragon boating and sailing.
Lake Rua is managed by Christchurch City Council Park Rangers.
Access
Vehicle access to Roto Kōhatu is now off Outlook Place.
The old entrance off Sawyers Arms Road is now only open to pedestrians.
Gate times
- During daylight savings, 7am to 9pm
- Rest of the year 7am to 7pm
- Ring Christchurch City Council on 0800 800 169 or 941 8999 to release locked-in vehicles, at owner's expense.
Water safety
If swimming at Roto Kōhatu, please use caution as there are no lifeguards on patrol.
- Only swim in permitted areas shown on the map boards.
- Be aware of potential underwater hazards like submerged branches.
- Always check the water before you enter to make sure it's safe.
You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of those with you.
Water quality
At Lake Rua, the water quality is tested for E. coli once a week during the summer.
Please note that there isn't enough long-term data to give the lake an official water quality grade (less than three years).
Water conditions can change quickly, so it's best to avoid swimming for at least 48 hours after it has rained. Always follow on-site warnings and public health notices.
For up-to-date information, check the LAWA page(external link).
For useful guidelines and ways to keep yourself safe check out the swim smart checklist.(external link)
The first lake is leased by Canterbury Jet Sports Club(external link) and is reserved for club members only. All watercraft using this lake must be registered with the club.
The Canterbury Jet Sports Club(external link) website has membership options as well as a comprehensive list of rules, regulations and prohibitions regarding use of watercraft in the reserve.
Access
Vehicles with watercraft must use the access gate at the northern end of Sawyers Arms Road. This access will still be open to club members once the new entrance on Outlook Place opens.
Dogs must be leashed in around Lakes Tahi and Rua and are prohibited from swimming in the lakes. This is to protect wildlife in the area, and to keep dogs clear of land and water vehicles.
Dogs may be kept under effective control on the grassland area south of the jet-ski access road that runs from Sawyers Arms Road to the south of Lake Tahi.
Find more great spots for you and your dog to explore.
Take an easy stroll around the Lake Circuit Walk, a 2km walk past Lake Tahi and around Lake Rua.
For something more challenging, walk the Otukaikino Track, a 9km walk from Roto Kōhatu, through Clearwater Resort and the The Groynes and out to Darroch Street Reserve in Belfast.
