The lake is surrounded by native vegetation and lies within the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage site.
Tours to watch Fiordland crested penguins are popular attractions for tourists. Since 1989, A bull southern elephant seal, named "Humphrey" returns annually. This species is rather rare on New Zealand coasts.[1][2] Another individual sometimes migrate here as well.[3] Occasionally, other pinnipeds such as New Zealand fur seals[4] and sea lions visit around. Hector's dolphins may possibly swim along the shores.[5]