A misspelt name and a misleading website...

Lake Rototoa, South Head, Auckland 
When: 31 May 2015
3 hours easy paddle (including lunch and numerous stops for photographic endeavours). 

This beautiful lake, about an hours drive north of Auckland, has been missing an R for many a year. Lake Ototoa is now known by its correct name - Lake Rototoa. This is a change however that locals and Google maps hasn't caught up with.

Lake Rototoa is the largest and most pristine freshwater lake in the Auckland region. And on a rather wet and miserable day it called out to us. A website I consulted said it had easy access to the water for kayaks. So, with this knowledge we made our way to the end of South Head.

Well, the website wasn't exactly correct, unless you call "carrying your kayak along a paddock and then down a path through the bush" easy access. However, we haven't been kayaking for such a long time, we were determined! And it ended up being easier to carry down than we thought. Tip: bring a small light kayak, or a strong muscly person... although we are evidence that it can be done.

Can you tell we are a bit happy to be back out on the water?

The first thing you notice out on the lake is the quality of the water. And it is deep, around 23 metres. The water is clear and dark. Stunning! What a fabulous find, and so close to Auckland.

We took our time, meandering around the edges, taking many photos of the reeds that hem the lake. 

The expected rain didn't show up so we were able to paddle around to the other side and find a great spot for lunch. As we paddled into a sheltered beach we heard a noise, and two wild fallow deer skipped through the forest and disappeared from sight. The thing that never ceases to amaze me is the surprises that kayaking brings. It truly is the greatest way to go exploring.

After lunch the rain set in for a bit, but it just adds to the beauty. Water drops on the surface of black water. The swaying of the reeds in the wind. Not a bad way to spend a day if you have the right gear to keep you warm... and a thermos of hot chocolate.

And then there is the climb back to the carpark to warm one up! 

This is a great day paddle. Be prepared to carry your kayak down... and then back up from the lakes edge. But, it is worth the effort.

Tips: 
Paddling in winter requires good warm clothing. Invest in good gear: beanie, thermals and a waterproof, wind proof jacket.
A thermos of hot drink is priceless.
Lake Rototoa is battling the invasion of water weed so check that your kayak is clean.


Extra important tip:
Bring snacks to recover your energy after lugging your kayak up the hill :)