Located near Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands, it is part of the upper Waipapa stream.

[1] It is a reservoir created in the 1980s by the Ministry of Works along with Lake Waingaro to supply irrigation to Kerikeri's horticulture industry.

[2] In 1990, it was purchased by a cooperative of local horticulturalists and farmers under the name Kerikeri Irrigation Co Ltd.[3] An easement exists with the Far North District Council which allows public access for passive activities such as sailing, picnicking, swimming, kayaking, and fishing.

[2] The lake is stocked annually by Fish and Game with 400-500 rainbow trout fingerlings.

[1] Motorised craft are restricted on Lake Manuwai, though exceptions are made for safety, scientific, and maintenance use.