Grovetown Lagoon is a beautiful oxbow lake which was formed when the Wairau River changed its course roughly 155 years ago when a bend was cut off and became a circular lake.
Historically the lagoon, and adjoining wetlands and waterways were considered a mahinga kai (food resource) by iwi and as such these were highly valued for the abundance of freshwater foods and resources.
A 3.8 km circuit track runs around the outside of the lagoon is accessible to the public. Picnic tables are located near the track to the birdwatching hide, and beside the Wairau river. Kayaks can be launched on the lagoon. The best launching area at present is at the corner of the lagoon on the south-western side.
3.2km
Easy
If going to the Grovetown Lagoon from Blenheim, turn right off State Highway 1 at Grovetown (watching out for the railway crossing). Proceed along the road through suburban Grovetown (Fell Street), cross Vickerman Street, and keep going now through vineyards. Immediately before the end of the road turn right into Steam Wharf Road. Halfway down Steam Wharf Road you can see the Lagoon at a place from which you can launch a kayak. You can park at the end of Steam Wharf Road and walk along the stop bank past the Rowing Club to the Riverside and Springs Wetland areas.
The lagoon is currently home to a variety of birds. Birds seen at Grovetown include pukeko, coot, mallard, shoveler duck, paradise duck, grey teal, black shags, black swan, little white throated shags, black backed gulls, welcome swallows, blackbirds, song thrushes, goldfinches, starlings and harrier hawks. Currently birds can be most easily viewed from on the water, and the installation of pathways have enabled a greater range of people to be able to experience the wonderful wildlife of the lagoon.