Lake Tarawera: Lakeside Walks and Activities

Lake Tarawera is one of New Zealand’s largest lakes. There are geothermal springs on its southern and northern shores. The lake is also characterised by lakeside forest, bays and trails that offer a range of activities. If you’re looking for a hotel for your trip, you can start by deciding whether walks, water activities or seasonal fishing are your priority. The locations also vary by season and trail conditions.

Lakeside Trails and Scenery

The 15 km Tarawera Trail is a bush walk through native forest that follows the shore of Lake Tarawera to Te Rātā Bay and Hot Water Beach. Along the way, it passes through lakeside forest to Te Hinau Bay and over the cold springs at Twin Streams. The route links named bays on the lake with a landscape of forest and springs. One specific landmark is about five kilometres from the start of the trail: Hawaiki Bay. It has access to the lake and a picnic area with toilets. Its approximate distance makes it easy to factor into your walking plans; check the latest trail information, as facilities and conditions may change.

On the Water and Further on Foot

Visitors on Lake Tarawera can moor at Rāpatu Bay and take the Isthmus Track to Lake Rotomahana. This is an option if you’d like to combine an activity on the lake with a walk afterwards. Punaromia (Tarawera Landing) has traditional jetties and boat departure points on Lake Tarawera. From there, a short walk leads to the ancient Tuhourangi rock carvings.

Totally Tarawera operates a water taxi on Lake Tarawera that can take walkers to the Tarawera Trail and other popular walks around the lake, or pick them up from there. Bookings are required; availability may change. Check before making plans.

Bays and Seasonal Activities

Stoney Point is a popular spot for swimming and boating; the Tarawera Walkway runs through Stoney Point. Check the latest notices when planning, as conditions at the reserve may change. Fishing also varies by season: shore fishing is popular at Rangiuru Bay in summer, while trout fishing at Punaromia is especially popular in autumn. This lets you choose between two seasonal activities based on when you travel. Fishing conditions can also change, so check the latest information in advance.

The area around Lake Tarawera is considered the birthplace of New Zealand tourism. This historical distinction adds to the lake’s present-day attractions: you can plan your stay around trails, water activities or the season.

Discover more destinations: Rotorua, Waikite Valley, Okere Falls, Mourea, Hamurana, Atiamuri, Reporoa

For the main travel overview: Rotorua District.