Area information
Although not serviced by public transport the Lake Coleridge area is readily accessible to all. Most visitors arrive by private vehicle or specially chartered commercial vehicles. Methven Information Centre or the local operators will be happy to assist with travel plans.
Once into the area roads are in good condition and can be safely travelled by cars and buses. At the upper end of the region roads are predominately gravel and in inclement winter weather it is wise to check road conditions.
Air so Crisp You Can Taste It
Like other South Island alpine areas, the Lake Coleridge region is subject to the vagaries of a high country climate. Frosty mornings and clear blue skies are a feature of winter while summer can bring hot, dry days.
Winter temperatures around 10°C with summer temperatures averaging 20° - 22°C are typical. Throughout the year the region can be buffeted by strong norwesterly winds. Snow is not uncommon in the winter and after a period of hard frosts, frozen lakes attract a keen following from ice skaters.
Where to Stay in the Lake Coleridge Basin
The Lake Coleridge area is serviced by a variety of accommodation options from waterside campsites to luxury resort accommodation. Dining options are equally diverse ranging from self catering to silver service dining. Retail outlets are limited in the area and those intending to self cater need to bring in provisions from outside. Cellphone coverage is also limited
Just A Stone's Throw Away
Much of the appeal of the Lake Coleridge area lies in its central location. When considering travel times the entrance to the Lake Coleridge area is only:
20 minutes from the gateway to Mt Hutt ski field
20 minutes from a full range of services in the ski town of Methven
To travel from the entrance of the Lake Coleridge area at Rakaia Gorge to the head of the Lake Coleridge Basin visitors need to allow for an hours travelling.