Lake Tikitapu — widely known as the Blue Lake — is a small, deeply coloured lake in the Lake Tikitapu Scenic Reserve, 9 kilometres south-east of Rotorua on Tarawera Road. The lake sits alongside the Whakarewarewa Forest, and the reserve has a pumice sand beach, safe swimming, picnic facilities, and the Blue Lake Track — a 5.5-kilometre walk circling the lake through native and exotic bush. Lake Tikitapu is one of the most accessible swimming lakes in the Rotorua area and a popular day trip from the city.
Practical Information
| Location | Tarawera Road, 9km south-east of Rotorua (via Te Ngae Road, right at the roundabout onto Tarawera Road) |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Blue Lake Track | 5.5km loop around the lake; easy; approximately 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Tikitapu Nature Walk | Shorter loop with plant identification panels; easy; approximately 30 minutes |
| Swimming | Safe swimming from the pumice sand beach |
| Facilities | Beach area, boat ramp, BBQs, picnic areas, children’s playground, toilets |
| Entry | Free |
The Blue Lake Track
The Blue Lake Track is a 5.5-kilometre loop circling Lake Tikitapu, rated easy with only about 40 metres of elevation change throughout. The walk takes approximately one hour and 45 minutes at a comfortable pace. The track weaves through native bush and sections of the Whakarewarewa Forest’s exotic conifers, with lake views opening up at intervals around the circuit. The south side of the lake has additional small beaches accessible from the track.
For a shorter visit, the Tikitapu Nature Walk is a distinct track with interpretive panels identifying native plants — it takes about 30 minutes and is suitable for all ages. Both walks start from the main reserve car park and beach area.
Swimming at Blue Lake
Lake Tikitapu’s pumice sand beach is one of the better swimming spots in the Rotorua lakes district. The lake is clean, the water is clear (the intense blue colour is a result of the lake’s depth and purity), and the beach is broad enough to spread out on warm days. The swimming area is shallow and sheltered close to shore, making it suitable for families. A boat ramp serves kayakers and recreational boaters, and the lake is used for water sports including jet skiing and kayaking.
The lake sits directly adjacent to Lake Rotokakahi (the Green Lake), which is Māori sacred water — wāhi tapu — and completely closed to public access. The visual contrast between the deep blue Tikitapu and the green Rotokakahi, visible from the track and from the road between them, is one of the distinctive features of this part of the Rotorua lake district.
“Blue Lake is a perfect easy day out from Rotorua — beautiful clear water, a good walking track around the lake, and proper beach facilities. Busy on weekends but the track thins the crowd out. The contrast with the Green Lake visible from the road is striking.” — visitor account
Where to Learn More
DOC — Lake Tikitapu Scenic Reserve — official reserve and track information.
Rotorua Lakes Council — Blue Lake (Tikitapu) — local council information on lake access and facilities.
Rotorua NZ — Lake Tikitapu — visitor guide and practical information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Lake Tikitapu from Rotorua?
9 kilometres south-east of Rotorua, approximately 10 minutes by car via Te Ngae Road, turning right at the roundabout onto Tarawera Road.
Is it safe to swim at Lake Tikitapu?
Yes — the pumice sand beach has safe swimming conditions close to shore. The lake is clean and clear. Check the Rotorua Lakes Council or LAWA water quality monitoring for the most current water quality status.
How long is the Blue Lake Track?
5.5km around the lake, rated easy with minimal elevation change. Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes at a comfortable pace.
What facilities are at Lake Tikitapu?
Pumice sand beach, boat ramp, BBQ and picnic areas, a children’s playground, and toilets. Entry to the reserve is free.
Can I kayak or boat on Blue Lake?
Yes — there is a boat ramp, and the lake is used for kayaking, boating, and water sports.
Why is the lake called Blue Lake?
The deep blue colour of Lake Tikitapu comes from the lake’s clarity and depth — the water is pure enough that it absorbs red and green wavelengths, reflecting blue. The adjacent Lake Rotokakahi (Green Lake) has different mineral content and reflects green.
Lake Tikitapu is one of several lakes in the Rotorua reserves. See the Rotorua parks and reserves guide for other outdoor options, and the Whakarewarewa Forest guide for the adjacent redwood forest and treewalk.
