In a quiet day dark waters of Lake Matheson becoming a mirror of the highest mountain in New Zealand. It is located near the Fox Glacier in South Westland Lake Matheson - a sacred place for the local Maori people.
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| en.wikipedia.org |
Lake Matheson is one of the most photographed places in New Zealand. Walk to the lake is the most popular attraction for visitors to the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers. Lake Matheson was formed by glaciers about 14,000 years ago. Glacier Fox stepped forward to the sea and left the basin, which later was filled with water. The lake is located at the bottom of a valley, about 12 km from the present glacier, as well as the mountains.
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| adventurelink.com |
Water in Lake Matheson has a dark brown color, in the halcyon days it turns in a perfectly reflective surface. In this mirror you can watch the reflection of the mountain Aoraki, Tasman and La Perus. This unusual color is caused by the natural leaching of organic substances from the surrounding grass cover.
Tourist flow to Lake Matheson began be widespread in the 1950s. It was a popular morning excursion for guests from a nearby hotel Fox. Today the walk starts from the same place, but the conditions became much easier. Now there is much more developed infrastructure, with bridges, railings and hiking trails.
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| newzealand.com |
There relic White Pine is growing, as well as red pine. Shrubs of New Zealand flax and many varieties of ferns also thrive near the lake. The lake has rare species of fish, as well as hundreds of strange birds.
Before the trip, be sure to check weather forecasts and information to the local Department of Conservation office. Weather in the area can change very quickly, so always take warm and waterproof clothes. Be sure to put in a backpack water, insect repellent and sunscreen. In the village near the Fox Glacier you will find accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.