Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve — officially Maunga Kākaramea and Waiotapu Scenic Reserve — is a free DOC reserve 26 kilometres south-east of Rotorua on State Highway 5. The mountain’s slopes are stained vivid reds, yellows, and whites by mineral deposits from geothermal activity — silica, sulphur, and iron compounds that colour the bare ground and contrast sharply with the surrounding native bush. Two walking tracks give access to the reserve: the shorter Crater Lake Walk and the longer Summit Track, which rewards the climb with a 360-degree view across the Rotorua lake district south to Lake Taupō and the Tongariro volcanic peaks.
Practical Information
| Location | SH5 (Rotorua–Taupō highway), 26km south-east of Rotorua — car park on the left just past the SH38 Murupara turnoff |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Crater Lake Walk | Short; easy; reaches two crater lakes in approximately 15 minutes from the car park |
| Summit Track | Full ascent from car park; moderate; approximately 2 hours return; 360° views at summit |
| Entry | Free |
| Mountain biking | Uphill biking only on the Summit Track (part of a wider MTB loop) |
The Crater Lake Walk
The easiest access into the reserve is the short Crater Lake Walk, which reaches two crater lakes within approximately 15 minutes of the car park. The track passes through the coloured geothermal ground that gives the mountain its common name — the mineral staining is most vivid in the open areas where the bare volcanic soil is exposed. The crater lakes themselves are pale blue-green, set in depressions in the landscape with steaming vents visible at their edges. This short walk is suitable for all fitness levels and gives the main colour experience without committing to the summit climb.
The Summit Track
The Summit Track continues above the crater lakes to the summit of Maunga Kākaramea, with the full return from the car park taking approximately two hours. The upper sections of the track are steeper and less formed than the lower crater lake area. The summit elevation gives unobstructed views in all directions: north to Mount Tarawera and the Rotorua lakes; west to the Paeroa Range; east to the Urewera ranges; and south to Lake Taupō and the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park — Ruapehu, Ngāuruhoe, and Tongariro. On a clear day the panorama covers most of the central North Island’s volcanic arc.
“Rainbow Mountain is genuinely one of the best free walks in the Rotorua area — the coloured mineral ground near the crater lakes is striking, and the summit view is extraordinary. Easy to combine with a visit to Wai-O-Tapu next door.” — visitor account
Where to Learn More
DOC — Maunga Kākaramea Summit Track — official track information, access, and current conditions.
Tourism New Zealand — Rainbow Mountain — overview of the reserve and tracks.
Rotorua NZ — Rainbow Mountain Summit Track — practical visitor information and track guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve?
26km south-east of Rotorua on SH5 (the Rotorua–Taupō highway). The car park is on the left side of the highway just past the SH38 Murupara turnoff.
Is Rainbow Mountain free?
Yes — the reserve is free to visit. There is no entry fee for the walking tracks.
How long does the Summit Track take?
Approximately 2 hours return from the car park. The crater lakes can be reached in about 15 minutes as a short walk option.
What are the views from the summit?
360-degree views covering the Rotorua lake district (including lakes Tarawera, Rotomahana, and Rerewhakaaitu), Mount Tarawera to the north, the Tongariro volcanic peaks (Ruapehu, Ngāuruhoe) to the south, and Lake Taupō. One of the broadest panoramas accessible on foot in the region.
Why is it called Rainbow Mountain?
The common name comes from the vivid mineral staining on the mountain’s geothermal slopes — reds, yellows, whites, and ochres from silica, iron, and sulphur deposits. The Māori name is Maunga Kākaramea.
Can I mountain bike at Rainbow Mountain?
The summit track allows uphill mountain biking only (it is part of a wider MTB loop). Check current DOC conditions before planning a ride.
Rainbow Mountain is easily combined with a visit to Wai-O-Tapu, which is a short drive further south on SH5. See the Wai-O-Tapu guide and the Rotorua parks and reserves guide for other options in the region.
