Blessed with sparkling mountain and lake vistas, Pisa Moorings is part of an expanding district, which enjoys an idyllic vineyard and boat mooring ambience.
Pisa Moorings, Pisa Village and Pisa Cove are relatively young, adjacent residential subdivisions, situated 10km north of Cromwell between Lake Dunstan and SH6. It is a fledgling community, which draws on Cromwell for its commercial, retail and service needs.
The Pisa District takes its name from the Pisa Range to its west. The area was, until the early 1990s predominantly farm land. Farming is still important, but in recent times vineyards have emerged and the environment has proved particularly suitable for the cultivation of pinot noir grapes. There is also a smattering of orchards and rural lifestyle holdings.
Pisa Moorings has stunning and distinctive landscape qualities that include Lake Dunstan, which forms a natural boundary to the east; the surrounding mountains, particularly the Pisa Range in the west and the Sugar Loaf beneath it. The Sugar Loaf has a Significant Landscape Feature classification in recognition of its unique glacial river terraces with flat tops and steep side slopes.
The 27-hectare, Department of Conservation managed Mahaka Katia Scientific Reserve is also within the district.
Lake Dunstan provides many opportunities for recreational pursuits including swimming, walking, picnicking and boating. There is a boat ramp at Pisa Moorings.
With its tranquil atmosphere and surrounding natural beauty, Pisa Moorings offers a peaceful respite from the nearby commercial centres of Central Otago.