Kuratau: Hotels, Lakeside Reserves and Trout Fishing

Kuratau between bay and lake

Kuratau sits on a shallow bay on the western shore of Lake Taupō. The lakeside settlement and Lake Kuratau are distinct landmarks: Lake Kuratau lies behind the settlement. Lush, gently rolling farmland stretches around Kuratau. Lake Kuratau was created as part of a hydroelectric project by flooding a forest. The bay, the agricultural surroundings and the history of the flooded forest offer insight into different aspects of the area.

Lakeside reserves and tracks

Kuratau’s lakeshore is surrounded by a continuous ring of community reserves. Kuratau Esplanade Reserve includes a narrow strip of lakeside land, as well as cliffs and higher ground along the cliff edge. On its northern and southern sides, it provides access on foot to the lakeshore. Pihanga Road Community Reserve provides access from Pihanga Road to the lakeshore and Kuratau Esplanade Reserve. Kuratau River Esplanade Reserve includes a popular walking track. When finding your way around, it is worth distinguishing between these lakeside access points and the walking track in Kuratau River Esplanade Reserve. Check current track conditions locally before planning to use any of the tracks.

Fishing at Lake Kuratau

Lake Kuratau is the smallest of the fishable lakes in the Taupō Fishery Area and has a high population of smaller trout. Fishing is possible from both the shore and a boat. When fishing from shore, the location matters: opportunities are limited away from the boat ramp, while good shore fishing is available near the ramp even without a boat. The lake is suitable for children and less experienced anglers. So, if you want to fish without a boat, the lakeshore near the boat ramp is a specifically identified landmark.

Weekend market in October

Kuratau’s annual weekend market is held together with nearby Omori on Labour Weekend in October. Stalls include fresh local produce, wooden furniture and wooden toys. For travel planning, Labour Weekend in October is the specific timing for this seasonal market.

More destinations in the Taupo District

In the Taupo District, Tongariro National Park is a short drive from Kuratau. It is one of New Zealand’s three World Heritage Sites; its dual World Heritage status recognises significant Māori cultural and spiritual associations. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is within this dual World Heritage area. Pureora Forest Park is a similarly short drive from Kuratau, and ski areas in the mountains are also a short drive away. Another destination in the Taupo District is the Great Lake Pathway, which starts at Taupo Boat Harbour. The track is mostly flat and offers a family-friendly outdoor experience.

Discover more destinations: Mangakino, Tokaanu, Taupo, Wairakei, Iwitahi, Kinloch, Mokai, Oruanui

For the broader travel overview: Taupo District.