If You Love It, You Can Protect It
Using the Lakes Responsibly This Summer
This summer, we’ve been inviting everyone to use the lakes responsibly. Whether you are a local, a visitor or a holiday homeowner, small everyday actions can help protect these precious waterways — while continuing to enjoy all they have to offer.
Photo: Franzi, WAI’s Community and Education Activator at The Outlet stall for Summer on the Lake.
Over recent months, the WAI Wānaka team has spent time at boat ramps, beaches, and popular swimming spots, connecting with people enjoying Lakes Wānaka and Hāwea, as well as the Mata‑au (Clutha) River. Alongside sharing practical tips, we have been listening to how the lakes fit into people’s lives.
From quick chats between swims to stories of summers gone by, one message has come through clearly: these lakes are deeply valued and play an important role in everyday life.
As part of this mahi, WAI Wānaka launched the Summer on the Lake survey — a snapshot of how locals and visitors use the lakes, what they value most, and how ready they are to take action to support freshwater health. To date, 142 people have responded, with results showing strong connection to and care for local waterways.
What the survey shows
One of the strongest themes is how frequently people use the lakes during summer. 72% of respondents said they use Lakes Wānaka and Hāwea daily or weekly, while 18% said they visit only rarely or monthly.
Photo: people enjoying the lake at Glendhu Bay.
Respondents were able to select multiple activities. Swimming received the highest number of responses (121 votes), followed by boating (100), water skiing and wakeboarding (78), barbecues (77), sightseeing (63), and fishing (57). These results reflect what many locals already know — the lakes are active, shared spaces that support health, happiness, and connection.
When asked why they use the lakes, respondents most often cited recreation and enjoyment (129 votes), spending time with friends and whānau (123), and relaxation (110).
This everyday recreational use is significant. Nationally, the Treasury recognises recreation and enjoyment of freshwater as ecosystem services that contribute to wellbeing. When water quality declines, these benefits can be put at risk, limiting how communities connect with and enjoy their waterways.
Encouragingly, many respondents are already aware of threats facing the lakes. Rubbish entering the water and fuel spills were the most commonly identified risks (134 votes). There was also strong support for positive action, with 141 respondents saying they would take litter home and 106 saying they refuel boats carefully and avoid spills.
Photo: boats lined up for summer fun at Glendhu Bay.
The survey has highlighted opportunities for further education. While freshwater pests were identified as a risk by 104 respondents, the action designed to prevent their spread — Check, Clean, Dry — was being practised by 127 respondents, suggesting growing awareness that can be built on.
Microplastics prompted a more mixed response. While 95 respondents identified microplastics as a risk, 77 said they would buy eco‑friendly boating accessories to help reduce them.
Why it matters
The survey reinforces the enormous value these lakes provide every day — from healthy ecosystems to places that support wellbeing and social connection. National freshwater policy recognises that protecting lake and river health also protects community wellbeing. When our lakes and rivers are healthy, so are we.
Thanks to everyone who has completed the survey, shared stories or stopped to chat. The survey remains open until 31 March, and the insights gathered will help shape future education and engagement initiatives, practical tools, and campaigns.
Thanks also to Love Wānaka, KEA Outdoors, and Marine & Sport Wānaka for supporting this initiative.
To learn more or take part in the survey, visit
www.waiwanaka.nz/summer-on-the-lake/
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