Last updated July 2026
Lake Kohata is a small, secluded freshwater lake next to Lake Wiritoa on the southern edge of Whanganui. It supports a population of good-sized perch and sees lower fishing pressure because access involves a short walk from the nearest road. The lake lies within a reserve, and anglers must remain inside the boundary 20 metres from the water’s edge. Fishing is possible year-round except where seasonal restrictions apply, and the main techniques mirror those used at the neighbouring lake.
Practical Information
| Location | Adjacent to Lake Wiritoa, Kaitoke Road off SH3, approximately 3 km south of Whanganui |
| Access | Park near the northern shoreline of Lake Wiritoa (vicinity of last houses); cross stile beside Lake Kohata sign; 10-minute walk along fence line |
| Target species | Perch |
| Licence required | No licence required for perch |
| Best spots | Low-lying eastern shoreline; deeper water outside weedbeds |
| Seasonal note | Hornwort weed growth can limit access in summer; autumn through spring is generally better |
| Facilities | Bank fishing only; no boat ramp; walkers can circuit the lake within reserve boundaries |
About Lake Kohata
Lake Kohata lies immediately beside Lake Wiritoa and is reached from Kaitoke Road. The short walk from the car parking area keeps visitor numbers low and preserves a quiet atmosphere. Anglers can walk around the full perimeter provided they stay within the marked reserve boundary 20 metres from the shoreline.
The lake holds good-sized perch. Fish & Game notes that hornwort, an invasive aquatic weed, can make fishing difficult during summer months when growth is dense. Deeper water outside the weedbeds offers the most productive fishing, and the low-lying eastern shoreline provides the easiest bank access.
Recommended methods include bait fishing with a bubble float and worm or spinning with small lures such as Veltic or Toby spinners. Wet flies can also produce results. The lake has no boat ramp, so all fishing is from the bank.
What Visitors Often Say
Anglers appreciate the quiet setting and the chance to fish without crowds. Many note that the short walk keeps the lake feeling secluded compared with busier nearby waters.
Visitors report steady perch action outside the weedbeds and recommend visiting in cooler months when weed growth is lower. Some mention the eastern shoreline as the most comfortable area for casting.
Where to Learn More
Fish & Game Whanganui Fisheries: official access details, fishing tips and seasonal notes for Lake Kohata.
Whanganui District Council – Lake Wiritoa: location and reserve information for the adjacent lake and surrounding area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lake Kohata?
It lies adjacent to Lake Wiritoa on Kaitoke Road, roughly 3 km south of Whanganui off State Highway 3.
How do I reach Lake Kohata?
Park near the northern shoreline of Lake Wiritoa, cross the stile beside the Lake Kohata sign, and follow the fence line for about 10 minutes. The eastern shoreline offers the easiest access.
Do I need a fishing licence?
No licence is required when targeting perch, the main species present.
When is the best time to fish?
Autumn through spring is generally preferred because hornwort weed growth can restrict access during summer.
Can I launch a boat on Lake Kohata?
No boat ramp exists; fishing is from the bank only.
Are there any access restrictions?
Anglers must remain within the reserve boundary 20 metres from the water’s edge and can walk around the entire lake inside that limit.
What techniques work well?
Bait fishing with a bubble float and worm, spinning with small lures such as Veltic or Toby, and wet flies are all effective.
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