Lake Kuwakatai lies a short distance due south of Lake Ototoa and, although the catchment size and type are essentially the same, the lake has very poor water quality and is ranked as second worst in the region after Lake Spectacle. The lake is highly turbid and nutrient enriched. It is surrounded by pasture and exotic forestry (source www.lawa.co.nz). The weed hornwort dominates the aquatic plant communities and many exotic fish are present, including koi carp. The lake provides a refuge and feeding habitat for resident and itinerant waterfowl. Lake Kuwakatai is identified as a Natural Lake Management Area by Auckland Regional Council. The management area includes the area of water within the lake and a 50 m buffer surrounding the lake (source www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz).
