
About This Spring
## Overview Nestled along Lakeside Drive in the picturesque town of Wanaka, on the shores of Lake Wānaka in New Zealand's Otago region, this public drinking spring is a beloved local gem. Regarded by residents as the best water in the area, this spring draws from the pristine glacial and alpine aquifers that feed the Southern Lakes district of the South Island. Wanaka sits at the southern end of Lake Wānaka, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park and the broader Southern Alps — a landscape shaped by millennia of glacial activity that has produced some of the purest freshwater sources in the world. The Otago region is known for its clean, mineral-rich groundwater, filtered naturally through layers of ancient schist rock and glacial moraine deposits. Locals have long valued this particular spring as a reliable source of exceptionally clean-tasting water, and it has historically been used as a drinking water source by the community. ## Directions 1. From the centre of Wanaka township, head west along Lakeside Drive, which runs parallel to the southern shore of Lake Wānaka. 2. The spring is located along Lakeside Drive at approximately GPS coordinates **-44.6927, 169.1359**. 3. Look for the spring outlet near the roadside — it is a publicly accessible point that locals frequent to fill water bottles and containers. 4. Parking is generally available along Lakeside Drive or in nearby pullover areas. *Note: These directions are based on the GPS coordinates provided and have not been independently verified against a secondary source. Using a GPS device or mapping app to navigate to the coordinates is recommended.* ## What to Expect Visitors will find a publicly accessible spring set against one of New Zealand's most stunning backdrops — the deep blue waters of Lake Wānaka framed by snow-capped mountains. The spring is conveniently located along Lakeside Drive, making it easy to access by car or on foot from central Wanaka. The water from this spring has been reported by locals to taste exceptionally clean and fresh, and it is widely considered the best drinking water source in the Wanaka area. Many residents regularly visit to collect water here. As with any natural water source, conditions can vary, and the water has not been independently tested or certified as potable — visitors should use their own discretion. Wanaka itself is a year-round destination, and the spring is accessible in all seasons. In summer, the surrounding lakeside area is perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic, while in winter the alpine scenery is breathtaking. The spring makes a convenient stop whether you're exploring the town, heading to Treble Cone or Cardrona ski fields, or embarking on a hike in Mount Aspiring National Park.
Getting There
Address
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GPS Coordinates
-44.692700, 169.135910
Directions
Community SubmittedDirections 1. From the centre of Wanaka township, head west along Lakeside Drive, which runs parallel to the southern shore of Lake Wānaka. 2. The spring is located along Lakeside Drive at approximately
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Water Safety Disclaimer
Try Water does not independently test, verify, or guarantee the quality, safety, or potability of any water source listed on this site. Listings are based on publicly available data, community contributions, and historical reports — not laboratory analysis.
Water conditions at natural springs can change at any time due to weather, contamination, agricultural runoff, seasonal variation, or other environmental factors. A spring that was safe to drink from yesterday may not be safe today.
Always test water yourself before drinking. We strongly recommend using a portable water testing kit or filter (such as a LifeStraw) and consulting local health authorities when in doubt. Never rely solely on the information provided here when making decisions about drinking from a natural water source.
By using this site, you acknowledge that you assume all risk associated with visiting and consuming water from any listed source.
Quick Facts
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Tips
Bring empty jugs or bottles to fill up.
Accessible by road — pull off carefully.
Parking available nearby.
Safety Info
Always test or filter water from natural springs before drinking. Water quality can change seasonally.
Bring your own containers. A portable water filter like a LifeStraw is recommended.
Respect the environment. Pack out everything you bring in.