History

The inspiration of The Lakes theme draws from the sites' evocative natural history and provided the vision for creating a unique and expansive residential community developed amongst park-like surroundings.

The Lakes is about creating a memorable landscape. Building on the past for each sculpture reflects the strong design elements inherent to the valley history. It is thought that the famous Taupo eruption of 166 AD wiped out the forest that once covered the valley floor where The Lakes now stands today. 

Excavations revealed numerous logs and fragments of old growth forests suspected to have been destroyed in the eruption. This is represented in the sculptured falling logs on Lake Boulevard – a symbolic appreciation of the sites historical links.

 

Lake Taurikura

The focal point of The Lakes subdivision is the 10 hectare freshwater lake which meanders through the suburb. A structured landing is situated at each end of Lake Taurikura, as well as a jetty which is popular with the local remote controlled yachting club.

The name of the lake comes from the legend of Princess Taurikura who once lived in these valleys.

Her story tells us that in a disagreement with her Grandfather one night she changed herself into a Mokomoko (lizard) and created the nearby Kopurererua River as an escape route out through the Waikareao Estuary on her journey to Karewa island. She resides there to this day as the ancestor of the famous Mokomoko.....the Tuatara.

The architecturally designed double curved bridge which stretches across the lake is a natural extension of The Lakes, blending in with the wood detailing and natural surroundings.

Home to the Kingfisher and the Heron, the lake is populated with fish from the nearby Kopurererua Stream. Lake Taurikura is perfect for kayaking and with no tides and the confined environment, it makes an ideal place to teach the kids to kayak.

Other popular pastimes at the lake include jogging, cycling, walking, sketching and photography. The lake also provides opportunities for schools to carry out a range of environmental studies. The Lakes has been planned and designed with great respect for heritage and nature; we are an environmentally sensitive and aware community.
 

 

Mortlake Heights Lot 575 - Before and After