Upper Clutha Mata-Au River, Wanaka

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/ Otago New Zealand
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Scuba Diving in Upper Clutha Mata-Au River, Wanaka, Otago New Zealand

Temperature:
9°C/48.20°F (winter), 19°C/66.20°F (summer)
Rapids:
Yes
Wanaka is a small town in Central Otago in the South Island of New Zealand, situated on the south side of Lake Wanaka.

The town is surrounded by the awe-inspiring Southern Alps, with spectacular mountains such as the Crown Range, Haast Pass, Roys Peak and Pisa Range and is close to Mount Aspiring National Park (World Heritage Area). Despite the mountainous landscape, the climate is considered to be continental, with fairly warm summers and temperatures that can reach up to 25°C/77°F, and cold winters with frequent snowfalls.

Clutha Mata-Au is the longest river in South Island. It begins its journey close to Haast Pass, passes Lake Wanaka and flows southeast up to 210 mi/338 km until it merges with the Pacific Ocean. It is a fast flowing river, with a rather diverse course and many rapids, consisting the perfect destination for the lovers of river drift scuba diving.

Start with Lake Wanaka Outlet and continue into Clutha River for some 6 mi/10 km. During your dive, you will meet many trouts passing you by.

Note: Temperatures: average of 9°C/48.20°F during winter and 19°C/66.20°F during summer.