Poolburn offers some of the most spectacular skating in New Zealand.

Likelyhood of ice

Reports suggest that the reservoir rarely freezes over entirely. High winds wreak havoc with the ice surface, often blowing away large chunks of ice, leaving a wet watery surface behind. However, when the reservoir does manage to freeze over in it’s entirety, the ice usually remains for extended periods of time and can become very thick. Edward Waite reported that car tyre tracks were present around the entire dam in mid-late July 2010.

Access

Access to Poolburn reservoir is tricky during the winter months and a 4WD may be necessary. The most direct route to Poolburn is via Omakau, however there are many shortcuts including via Galloway just out of Alexandra.

Gallery

Map

Map of Poolburn reservoir

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