Lake Ferry sit’s on the South Coast along from Cape Palliser and is located next to Lake Onoke which is its maori name.
It is believed the area was settled many years before european settlers arrived by the maori.
Sheep and cattle were brought into the area in 1844 with the settlers along the coastal route from the Wellington area.
It was not until 1850 that the first ferry service was started after a drowning in 1851 the Lake Ferry hotel was opened to provide accomodation.

On entering Lake Ferry you will see that the place is now manly used for holiday homes and with some caravaning sites some people mind you do call this part of the coast home on a year round basis.

At the end of the road you can park near the Hotel and walk along the unmade road that takes you to a grass and shingle bank where you can hear the sound of the waves breaking, Off to your right you will see the lake and in the distance a shallow shingle bar that allows water in and out from the open sea.

The short walk to the top of the bar can be tough but is well worth it, here you are welcomed with sight of Cook Strait and Cape Palliser to your left and Turakirae Head to your right which then carries on round to Baring Head.

It is a popular place to fish and wind surfers can be seen often crossing the waters of the lake, If time is not a problem stop for a meal and a drink at the hotel which likely has not changed much over the years which adds to its charm. 

On a cold day sit close to the log burner which helps to take the edge of the chill outside,
Stay late to watch the sun come down or if you are up to it,raise early to see the waters of the lake gain color as the sun climbs over the far hills that can offer a great backdrop for that perfect picture.