Lynmore is an established suburb in the eastern part of Rotorua, well-regarded for its proximity to the Whakarewarewa Forest (the Redwoods) and the Blue Lake (Tikitapu). The suburb had a population of 3,345 in the 2023 census and is the 7th largest Rotorua suburb by total residential housing stock. Lynmore has historically commanded some of the highest property prices in Rotorua — in 2018, it recorded the city’s highest median house prices. The suburb’s eastern position and access to Rotorua’s best outdoor recreational assets make it one of the more sought-after residential areas in the district.
Practical Information
| Location | Eastern Rotorua, close to the Whakarewarewa Forest and Blue Lake |
| Population | 3,345 (2023 census); estimated ~3,360 as of June 2025 |
| Median age | 43.4 years (older than the national average of 38.1) |
| Housing | 7th largest Rotorua suburb by housing stock; majority built 1980–1989 |
| School | Lynmore Primary School (Te Kura ō Ōwhatiura, Years 1–6, roll 619) |
The Suburb
Lynmore grew predominantly in the 1980s, when the majority of its current housing stock was built — a pattern common to many of Rotorua’s eastern suburbs. The suburb has an older demographic profile than the Rotorua average, with a median age of 43.4 years and a predominantly European/Pākehā population (80.4% in the 2023 census). This demographic profile, combined with the suburb’s property values, reflects Lynmore’s status as one of Rotorua’s more established and sought-after residential addresses.
Lynmore Primary School (formally named Te Kura ō Ōwhatiura) is one of the larger primary schools in the Rotorua area, with a roll of 619 students. The school borders the Waitawa bush on its eastern side, giving the school grounds a distinctive native bush edge that is unusual for an urban primary school. The bush connection reflects Lynmore’s broader character as a suburb where residential development sits close to the natural landscape.
Proximity to Outdoor Recreation
Lynmore’s strongest asset is its position relative to Rotorua’s best outdoor destinations. The Whakarewarewa Forest (the Redwoods) — New Zealand’s premier mountain biking and walking forest network — is easily accessible from the suburb and is used regularly by Lynmore residents as an everyday recreational resource. Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) is approximately 5 kilometres from the suburb: a clear, spring-fed lake set in native bush, accessible via the Blue Lake / Green Lake walking circuit or by road. Both destinations are within easy driving distance, and many Lynmore residents use both as part of a regular outdoor routine.
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia — Lynmore — demographic and geographic overview of the suburb.
OneRoof — Lynmore Suburb Profile — property market data and suburb overview.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lynmore in Rotorua?
In the eastern part of Rotorua, close to the Whakarewarewa Forest (the Redwoods) and Blue Lake (Tikitapu). It is one of Rotorua’s more sought-after eastern suburbs.
Is Lynmore an expensive suburb in Rotorua?
Historically yes — Lynmore recorded Rotorua’s highest median house prices in 2018. It continues to be one of the more premium residential addresses in the city.
What school is in Lynmore?
Lynmore Primary School (Te Kura ō Ōwhatiura) is a state primary school for Years 1–6 with a roll of 619 students. It is one of the larger primary schools in the Rotorua area.
Is Lynmore close to the Redwoods?
Yes — the Whakarewarewa Forest entrance is close to Lynmore and is a practical everyday destination for residents, whether for walking, running, or mountain biking.
How old is the housing stock in Lynmore?
The majority of Lynmore’s residential housing was built between 1980 and 1989, though there is a mix of eras. The suburb is the 7th largest in Rotorua by total housing stock.
Lynmore is close to the Redwoods and Blue Lake. See the Whakarewarewa Forest guide for the walking and biking trails, and the Blue Lake (Tikitapu) guide for the lake and nature walk nearby.
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