World by City

Nature

Lake Pupuke

Open in Maps
Lake Pupuke

Lake Pupuke

Lake Pupuke is a heart-shaped volcanic crater lake located on Auckland's North Shore, situated between the suburbs of Takapuna and Milford. Visitors go here for swimming, kayaking, and other water sports, as the lake provides a sheltered freshwater environment close to the coast.

Getting There

To reach the lake from Auckland city centre, you can take a bus toward the North Shore or drive across the Auckland Harbour Bridge. The journey typically takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Duration of Visit

Depending on average, allow 1 to 3 hours to walk around the perimeter or engage in water activities. The time spent depends on whether you are visiting for a short walk or spending the afternoon on the water.

When to Visit

The lake is accessible year-round, though swimming and water sports are most common during the summer months. It can become crowded on weekends and public holidays when local residents use the area for recreation.

Nearby Attractions

You can combine a visit to the lake with other nearby sites on the North Shore:

  • Le Roys Bush (4.8km)
  • Takarunga / Mount Victoria (5.9km)
  • North Head (6.7km)
  • Watchman Island / Te Kākāwhakaara (6.8km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

This place may not appear in the results — some sites are free to enter or sell tickets only at the gate.

Stays near Lake Pupuke

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Lake Pupuke Nearby stays

Check prices and availability on the booking sites.

Pick your dates — we'll search Auckland hotels for you

Choose dates and guests, and the buttons below will open search results with your criteria. Prices differ between sites, so compare before you book.

Hotel membership

Staying at Accor hotels often? ALL Accor+ Explorer

A paid annual membership. It includes two free nights a year across Asia-Pacific, 30% off dining and 15% off drinks, and 15% off stays at more than 4,500 hotels worldwide.

Explore the membership

Good to visit alongside