Thanks to the vast amount of volcanic activity in the Rotorua region, the area is covered with a range of stunning lakes. Possessing vibrant hues and rich history, each lake offers something unique. Between them, they cater to adrenaline junkies and beach dwellers alike.
1. Lake Rotorua
Lake Rotorua is the second largest lake on the North Island, with a surface area of 80 square kilometres. Along its southern shores lies the city of Rotorua which is dubbed by locals, ‘Roto Vegas!’! Walk the boards of the wildlife refuge that leads to Sulphur Point, where steaming vents provide an incredible picture of geothermal activity. In the centre of Lake Rotorua, you’ll find Mokoia Island, the ‘green jewel of Te Takiwa Waiariki’, where the lovers Tutanekai and Hinemoa once resided. Legend has it that Hinemoa swam over 2km in the dead of night to reach her true love, Tutanekai; her only guidance was the sound of his flute. This story is so beloved that two of Rotorua’s predominant roads are named after the pair.
If you want to check out the island for yourselves, try a Mokoia Island tour. Today the area is a nature reserve, so you’ll have the chance to get close to some native New Zealand birds while learning more about the romance that blossomed in this enchanting area.
2. Lake Rotomahana
Famous for the stunning vision of pink and white terraces that once sat on its shores, Lake Rotomahana was the most visited tourist attraction of the 19th century. But, when Mount Tarawera erupted in 1886, the terraces were destroyed, and the landscape of this natural wonder changed forever. Today, the lake is a bird sanctuary where no hunting is allowed. You can try your hand at fishing or jump on a boat cruise to check out the geothermal activity bubbling around the outskirts of the lake. While you’re in the area, check out Waimangu Volcanic Valley for some great experiences.
3. Lake Tarawera
If you’re looking for a spot to go fishing, it’s difficult to go past the rich waters of Lake Tarawera, abundant in impressively sized rainbow trout. While its shores were once home to an array of Māori villages in the 19th century, the Tarawera eruption was enough to destroy most of the settlements that were established at the time. Lake Tarawera appears smaller than Lake Rotorua as it’s only half the surface area, but with a depth of up to 85m, this is Rotorua’s biggest lake by volume. Enjoy the hilly landscapes along the Tarawera Trail and make your way to the hot water beach, where you can relax in the naturally heated waters of Te Rata Bay.
4. The Green Lake / Lake Rotokakahi
Lake Rotokakahi, commonly known as the Green Lake, is so-called thanks to the emerald hues of its waters caused by the shallow, sandy base. This lake in Rotorua is an excellent option if you’re looking for somewhere quiet to relax and unwind away from the city centre and tourist crowds. Admire the sacred waters of the Green Lake that remain untouched thanks to a ban on fishing, sailing, or swimming. While you’re here, take a walk to Wairoa Falls, where you can see the cascading waters flow from the Green Lake into Lake Tarawera.
5. The Blue Lake / Lake Tikitapu
Lake Tikitapu, the Blue Lake, dazzles visitors with its vibrant blue hues due to the rhyolite and pumice in the water. The more popular sibling to Green Lake, this area allows for swimming and watersports and even provides a venue for events such as the triathlon. Both of these lakes sit next to a volcanic caldera, and if you climb high enough, you can view the contrasting hues of the lakes at the same time.
If you want to amp up the adventure, check out our list of the Top 12 Activities in Rotorua!
6. Lake Okareka
This lake may be small, but it’s full of charm and hosts the perfect picnic spot at Boyes Beach, where a children’s playground and shallow waters provide everything you’ll need to entertain the kids. While you’re here, take the short boardwalk that meanders through the wetlands to enjoy the rich, aquatic waters of the area. If you fancy something a little different, try a horse trekking tour.
7. Lake Rotoiti
Enjoy many action-packed adventures at Okere Falls, a water outlet from Lake Rotoiti. Kayaking and rafting are particularly popular thanks to a good range of rapids and a seven-metre waterfall (the highest commercially rated in the world!). For those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land, the Okere Falls track provides a short walk that allows you to admire the waterfall’s plunge and elevated views of the surrounding areas.
