Lake Hayes lies between Arrowtown and Queenstown, a small reflective lake ringed by willows, wetlands, and low hills. On a still morning it earns its Maori name, Waiwhakaata, the mirror waters: the reflections of the surrounding slopes can be almost too neat.
The loop track around the lake is easy and popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists. It is not wilderness, but it is a fine low-effort break between Arrowtown's historic streets and Queenstown's louder adventure scene.