Can I hire a bike and grab a coffee at Waipa before riding the loop?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, Waipa is a busy biking hub with a cafe and bike hire. It also has Secret Spot hot tubs and a beer garden, and it's one of the starting points for the loop.
Rotorua Questions
Rotorua people helping Rotorua people. Ask about any place, or answer one for a local.
Which place is it about?
Can't see it?
Questions here are answered by locals.
Type of place
Do you share the loop with many walkers, or is it mostly bikes?
Where do I pick up a map for the Redwoods walks?
RotovegasCity guide
Pick up a map at the Redwoods i-site, where all the forest walking trails start. The trails go through the Memorial Grove first, then branch off, with colour-coded arrow signs.
Do mountain bikers share the path through the grove, or is it just walkers?
Which direction do I walk the Waitawa Walk loop?
RotovegasCity guide
Follow the coloured arrows in the direction they point. The walks at the Redwoods are designed as circuits, so the arrows will lead you around and back to the start.
Are there toilets and drinking water near the start of the Waitawa Walk?
How long does the water taxi take from The Landing to Te Rata Bay?
RotovegasCity guide
The water taxi crossing from The Landing (Punaromia) to Te Rata Bay takes about 25 minutes.
Is there any shade on the beach in the afternoon, or is it all open sun?
Where do I pick up a map before starting the Quarry Lookout Track?
RotovegasCity guide
Pick up a map at the Redwoods i-SITE, where all the Whakarewarewa Forest walks start. The trails are well marked with colour-coded arrows.
Can a wheelchair manage any of this track, or only the flat bit near the visitor centre?
Are there toilets at Te Amorangi Museum?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, there are toilets on site. There are also picnic facilities if you want to stay a while.
Are the displays labelled well, or do you rely on the volunteers to explain things?
What time does Skyline Gravity Park open and close each day?
RotovegasCity guide
It's open 10am to 4.30pm, seven days a week, all months of the year. Trails and gondola can close at short notice for weather or safety, so check before you head up.
How busy does the gondola queue get on weekends and school holidays?
Can I take my dog on the Blue Lake Track?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, dogs are allowed on the Blue Lake Track as long as they are kept on a lead.
Has anyone taken an e-bike round the Blue Lake Track, or is it just for walkers?
Is any of the Pohaturoa Track on a sealed road?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, there's a short sealed road section up Nursery Hill once you're through the Redwood Grove. After that the track heads back into the forest.
Has anyone taken a dog round the Pohaturoa loop? Are they allowed on the track?
Where does the Te Ara Ahi trail start in Rotorua?
RotovegasCity guide
It starts at Prince's Gate near the Rotorua Museum, close to the lakefront. From there it follows the Sulphur Point Track along the lakeshore.
Is it easy to find a park near the start if you leave the car all day?
How high does the Tokorangi Pa Track climb?
RotovegasCity guide
It climbs steadily east through the Redwoods to about 500 metres above sea level. From the top you look out to Mt Ngongotaha, Rotorua city, the lake and the airport.
Do you share the Tokorangi Pa Track with mountain bikers, or is it walkers only?
How much climbing is there on the Moerangi Track by bike?
RotovegasCity guide
Around 1,000 metres of climbing over the 35 km, so it's a ride that demands respect. Strong fitness helps.
Are there any toilets along the Moerangi Track, or only at the huts?
Are there steep sections on the Summit Track?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, it's an advanced track that is steep, rough and eroded in places. The clay surface gets very slippery when wet, and there are cliffs and high drop-offs, so take care.
Is any of the track sealed, or is it all loose gravel and dirt underfoot?
Can I just go and watch the BMX riding from the side?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, you can watch from the sides. The landscaping around the track creates natural viewing areas with clear sightlines across the whole circuit.
Is there any shade around the track on a hot afternoon?
What is the street address for the Rotorua Museum?
RotovegasCity guide
It's on Oruawhata Drive in Government Gardens, Rotorua. The building is currently closed for earthquake strengthening, so you can't go inside.
Where do you park for Government Gardens, and is it easy to find a spot?
Are there toilets and parking close to Dodzy Skills Park?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, the Tītokorangi hub next to the skills park has toilets and mountain bike car parks. The Nursery Road entry at the end of Tītokorangi Drive has its own mountain bike car park.
Is there drinking water near the park, or should I bring my own bottles?
Is Trout Pool Road freedom camping free, or do I have to pay?
RotovegasCity guide
It's free. Trout Pool Reserve is one of Rotorua's free freedom camping sites, with a maximum stay of 2 consecutive nights per calendar month.
How is the phone coverage at the Trout Pool Road camping area down in the bush?
Is the camping area at Hamurana Reserve flat or sloping?
RotovegasCity guide
It's flat and open, with views across the lake toward central Rotorua and the surrounding hills.
How is the phone coverage at Hamurana Reserve? Enough for calls and data?
Are there toilets near the playground at the Rotorua lakefront?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes. There's a new toilet block near the playground at the Rotorua lakefront on Lakefront Drive.
Is there anywhere to fill a water bottle along the Ngongotahā Trail?
Can you walk into central Rotorua from the Hinemoa Street car park?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, the city centre is about 10 minutes on foot. The Lake Rotorua foreshore is a short walk away, and Government Gardens is walkable from the car park.
How quiet is it overnight, with the spa across the road and the town so close?
Is there a playground next to Rotorua Library?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, the library looks out over Jean Batten Square, which has been landscaped with a children's playground and green space. It's a handy spot to let the kids burn off energy.
Is it easy to find a quiet spot to work on a weekday afternoon?
Can I stay at Okaro in a campervan that isn't self-contained?
RotovegasCity guide
No. From 7 June 2026 any vehicle used for freedom camping must be certified self-contained, so a non-self-contained campervan can't stay at the reserve.
How busy does Okaro get in summer, and do you need to arrive early to get a spot?
Do the exhibitions at The Arts Village change often?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, exhibitions change regularly. It's worth checking the website for the current programme before you visit so you know what's on.
Has anyone done a guided tour here, or is it just wander through the galleries yourself?
How early do I need to arrive before my Te Puia tour starts?
RotovegasCity guide
Check in 15 minutes before your scheduled tour departure time. Arriving a little early keeps you from missing your slot.
Is the valley walk okay for a wheelchair, or are there steep bits and rough paths?
Do I need to book Buried Village tickets online or can I pay at the door?
RotovegasCity guide
You can buy tickets online or at the museum entrance, so booking ahead isn't required. Discounts are available for students, seniors and groups.
Do primary school age kids stay interested here, or is it mostly reading signs?
Do you actually get involved at Te Pā Tū or just sit and watch?
RotovegasCity guide
You get involved in parts of it. Guests are invited to learn some basic movements and join in the customs of the night, so it's not just watching from your seat.
Is it too long a night for primary school kids, or do they stay interested?
What kind of food is on the hāngi buffet at Mitai?
RotovegasCity guide
It's a buffet of hot New Zealand meats and poultry, vegetables and fresh salads, finished with a dessert buffet. Full bar facilities are available too.
Are there any info panels or signs around the stream, or do the guides explain everything?
Are there information panels explaining the displays at Bibleworld?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, each exhibit comes with explanatory information, so you can follow what the artefacts are and how they connect to the ancient civilisations behind them.
Are there toilets at Bibleworld, or is it best to go before you get there?
Where do I leave the Mangorewa Stream when walking back to the car park?
RotovegasCity guide
Leave the river bed by the right bank just before the road bridge. A small track there exits the stream to the car park.
Is there room at the SH36 car park on weekends, or does it fill up?
What time does the first and last guided village tour leave at Whakarewarewa?
RotovegasCity guide
The first village tour leaves at 9am and the last leaves at 3pm. You can't enter the village without a guide, and it closes to the public from 4pm each day.
Is the route around the village okay for a wheelchair or pram, or are there steps and rough ground?
Where do you park for the Kōkako Track?
RotovegasCity guide
There are two car parks on Kapukapu Road. The first has a shelter and fits about 10 cars. The second is about 500 m further north at the track entrance and fits only three cars.
How muddy does the Kōkako Track get after rain, and are the steps near the stream slippery?
Do you get a welcome at the marae before the tour sets off?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, guests get a traditional welcome at Te Takinga Marae in Mourea, the starting point, before the tour departs.
Is there easy parking at Te Takinga Marae if you drive out yourself?
Can I hunt in the Mokaihaha Ecological Area?
RotovegasCity guide
Only with a permit. Hunting without one isn't allowed in the Mokaihaha Ecological Area.
What is South Road like to drive after Mamaku, sealed or gravel, and OK for a normal car?
Is there parking close to the beach at Blue Lake?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, there's a main car park at the beach area. The Blue Lake Track starts and finishes there, so you can park and walk straight to the sand.
Is there much shade near the beach in the afternoon, or is it all open sun?
Is there a car park at Wai-O-Tapu?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, Wai-O-Tapu has a car park, and there's a café on site too.
How do primary school age kids find the Wai-O-Tapu walking circuit? Is it too much walking?
Where do I park for the Ngahopua Track?
RotovegasCity guide
Park beside Lake Ōkataina Road near the track entrances. The Ngahopua Track starts directly opposite the side road to the Outdoor Education Centre.
Are there toilets near where the short tracks start, and are they in decent shape?
Can I use my DOC Campsite Pass at Hot Water Beach campsite?
RotovegasCity guide
No, the DOC Campsite Pass can't be used at Hot Water Beach campsite. It costs $18 per adult and $9 per child aged 5 to 17 a night, and infants aged 0 to 4 stay free.
How quiet is the Hot Water Beach campsite at night in summer?
Where does the Rotoma Bridle Track start and finish, and where do I park?
RotovegasCity guide
It runs from Manawahe Road to Whangaroa Bay on Lake Rotomā, alongside SH30. The best parking is on Manawahe Road by the junction with SH30.
Is the Rotoma Bridle Track okay with a pram, or is the surface too rough?
Can a big campervan fit at the Lake Ōkāreka DOC campsite?
RotovegasCity guide
Not if it's over 6 metres long. The campsite isn't suitable for vehicles longer than that, and there is limited room overall, so bigger motorhomes should look elsewhere.
How sheltered is the lakeside campsite when the wind picks up?
Does Korokitewao Bay have picnic tables and a playground?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, Korokitewao Bay has picnic tables and a children's playground, plus toilets and a sandy beach.
Is the water at Korokitewao Bay shallow and gentle enough for little kids?
Does War Memorial Park connect to the Rotorua cycleway?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, the lakefront redevelopment added new connections to the city cycleway network, so you can reach the park by bike from around town.
Is there much shade around the playground in the afternoon?
Where can I park for Sulphur Bay, and does it cost anything?
RotovegasCity guide
Parking is free at Rotorua's Government Gardens or at the Lakefront. From the Lakefront, follow the road past the waka on display to reach the bay.
Is the cycle path along the bay flat, or are there any steep bits to watch for?
Are there toilets at Kerosene Creek?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, there are toilets at Kerosene Creek, along with a car park and an information shelter.
Is the track at Kerosene Creek okay for a pram or is it too rough?
Are there picnic tables and BBQs at Kuirau Park, and are there toilets?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, Kuirau Park has BBQs and picnic tables, and there are public toilets in the park too.
Is the playground fenced, or can kids wander off toward the steaming areas?
Is there a playground at Government Gardens for the kids?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, Government Gardens has a children's playground. It's listed among the park's facilities alongside the Klamath Falls Rose Gardens.
Are there any public BBQs at Government Gardens, or do you have to bring your own?
How long is the boat cruise on Lake Rotomahana?
RotovegasCity guide
The guided cruise on Lake Rotomahana takes 45 minutes. It's a fully guided trip and goes out to where the Pink and White Terraces ended up.
How much shade is there on the walk? Thinking of going on a hot summer afternoon.
Are the paths at Paradise Valley Springs flat and easy to walk in wet weather?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, the walkways through the park are flat and accessible, and they can be used in all types of weather.
Are there picnic tables at Paradise Valley Springs if we bring lunch?
Are there benches to sit on at the Murray Linton Rose Gardens?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, there are benches at the gardens. The playground and sports fields of Fenton Park are right next door.
Is it easy to find a park near the roses when there's sport on at Fenton Park?
Is there parking at the start of the Ngongotahā tracks?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, there is parking at Violet Bonnington Reserve, which is about a 15 minute drive from central Rotorua.
Are there toilets at the start of the walk, or should we go before leaving town?
Can I get a snack or a drink at Hamurana Springs?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, there's an onsite café and bar where you can grab a snack or a drink. It's part of the golf course at the reserve.
Is it easy to find a park at the weekend, or does the car park fill up?
Is there any shade at Waitangi Soda Springs?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, native bush around the pool gives shade and privacy, though the setting stays open to the sky, so don't count on full cover.
Is there a toilet at the springs or should I stop in Rotomā first?
How far is Okere Falls from Tauranga by car?
RotovegasCity guide
It's about 60 km from Tauranga, roughly a 45 to 60 minute drive.
How slippery do the track and steps get after rain?
Is there parking at Holdens Bay, and where is the jetty?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, there's a large grassy area with parking under trees. The jetty is at the end of Robinson Avenue.
Is the entry to the water at Holdens Bay sandy, or is it muddy underfoot?
Is there a stream at Linton Park West in Rotorua?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, the Mangakakahi Stream is part of the park, along with a few other waterways. Native planting is under way to help keep the water in good condition.
Does the playground have anything a child with a wheelchair or walker can use?
Who looks after Tihiotonga Centennial Park and its trees?
RotovegasCity guide
Rotorua Lakes Council looks after the reserve. It replaces any damaged or dead memorial trees at the next suitable planting time, at no extra cost to the sponsor.
Is it a good walk for young kids, or are the gullies too steep for them?
What was the land at Neil Hunt Park used for before the sports fields?
RotovegasCity guide
It had industrial uses, including a timber industry that covered the base of the sports fields in sawdust. A former quarry site on the park is now used by clubs and sports teams.
Is there any water play at the playground, or is it just the usual equipment?
Where can I find the skate ramp and basketball court at Puketawhero Park?
RotovegasCity guide
The skateboard ramp and half-court basketball are in the overflow parking area on Te Ngae Road.
Is the playground fenced, or is it open to the car park and road?
Is there parking near the lakefront playground in Rotorua?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, there is parking nearby. It's also a short walk from the city centre along the lakefront path or nearby streets if you'd rather leave the car.
Is the playground fenced at all, or is it open to the lake and the path?
Where do you park for the Bridge at Waiotapu Stream?
RotovegasCity guide
Park anywhere on the side of the road near the bridge. It's on a short side road about 100 metres after the turnoff, and the pools are right beside the road.
Do people bring dogs to the Bridge, and is it okay with the other swimmers?
Are there toilets along the Tarawera Trail, or do I need to plan around that?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, Hawaiki Bay has toilets and a picnic area. It's about 5 km in from the Te Wairoa car park, with lake access too.
How busy does the Te Wairoa car park get at weekends if you're leaving a car all day?
Can I take my own boat right up to the Wairua Stream mouth?
RotovegasCity guide
No, the stream mouth can't be navigated by boat. Pull up on the reedy bank nearby and walk a short way along the well-worn path to the hot pools.
How busy does it get here, and is it better to go early or late in the day?
Can I hire a swimsuit and towel for the mud bath?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, swimsuits, shorts and towels can be hired at reception for $5 per item. You can also bring your own.
Are there any steep bits on the walk, or is it mostly flat?
How long do I have to use the boat ramp gate PIN at Ōkataina?
RotovegasCity guide
Use the first 4-digit PIN within 2 hours of receiving it to open the gate at the ramp. You get a second PIN for the gate when you leave the lake.
Is Ōkataina a good spot to bring kids or beginners fishing from the shore?
What's at the Ngongotahā lakefront besides the boat ramp?
RotovegasCity guide
There's a large grassy area with seating, plus a jetty alongside the boat ramp. You get to it from the end of Reeme Street.
How far is the walk from the car to the stream mouths if you're fishing from shore?
Is there somewhere to sit and enjoy the view on the Skyline nature trails?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, the lookout points have seating areas with wide views over Lake Rotorua, the city and the surrounding lake district.
Has anyone taken a dog up the gondola for the nature walk?
Is the boardwalk a loop or do you have to backtrack?
RotovegasCity guide
It's a circuit, so you don't need to backtrack. The 2.5km boardwalk loop covers the main features, including the geysers, silica terraces and the cave.
How busy does it get mid-morning in summer, and is the ferry queue ever long?
Are dogs allowed at Hinehopu Lakeshore Reserve if I'm fishing there?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, dogs are allowed at Hinehopu Lakeshore Reserve but must stay on a lead. There is no overnight parking or camping at the reserve.
Is the shore at Hinehopu a good spot for beginners or kids learning to fish?
What do the orange triangles on the Cascade Falls track mean?
RotovegasCity guide
Orange triangles mark the walking route around the loop. They're easy to follow by day, but you need to watch more carefully for them at night.
Has anyone taken a pram around the loop? Wondering how it is with roots and steps.
Are there public toilets at Lake Rotomā?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, Matahi Spit reserve has public toilets. It also has a picnic area and a boat ramp.
Is the shore easy for beginners or kids to fish from, or do you really need a boat?
Does the Hamurana lakeside reserve have a playground and boat ramp?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, the reserve has a children's playground and a boat ramp, plus barbecues, a picnic table and toilets. It's an easy stop for a family while someone fishes the mouth.
Is it easy to find a park near the mouth on a hot summer weekend?
Is Huia Lyons skatepark okay for beginners?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, it suits all skill levels. The concrete ramps and obstacles include quarter pipes, rails and a bowl section, so beginners and more experienced skaters can both find something to ride.
Do kids on scooters share the park okay, or is it mostly skateboarders?
Do you have to pay to use the playing fields at Puketawhero Park?
RotovegasCity guide
The fenced fields 1 and 2 at Puketawhero Park can be charge grounds, so hiring them may cost. The skatepark and basketball area are in the overflow parking area on Te Ngae Road.
Are there any toilets close to the skatepark, or do you have to go elsewhere?
Are there any shops at Lake Rotoehu for food or drinks?
RotovegasCity guide
No, there are no shops at the lake, so bring your own food, water and gear. The Rotomā Store at 178 State Highway 30, a short drive east, is a Fish & Game licence agent.
Is there room to park a car and trailer near the launch spots at Rotoehu?
What's the bag limit and minimum size for trout on the Waiteti?
RotovegasCity guide
You can keep 8 trout, but only 2 of them can be brown trout. Each fish must be at least 350mm long.
Is it easy to find a park near the end of Taui Street on weekends?
Are dogs allowed at Tarawera Falls?
RotovegasCity guide
No, dogs aren't allowed on the Tarawera Falls track or anywhere else on DOC land here, so leave them at home.
Is the track muddy or slippery after rain?
What's the bag limit and minimum size for trout in the Ngongotahā Stream?
RotovegasCity guide
The bag limit is 8 trout, with no more than 2 of them brown trout. Any fish you keep must be at least 350mm long.
Is the way to the stream mouth manageable in a wheelchair, or is it rough underfoot?
Can I drive in to fish Lake Tarawera from Kawerau after dark?
RotovegasCity guide
No, the forest gate on the Kawerau side is closed during the hours of darkness. You need a permit for the private forestry roads, and the road can close in summer when fire risk is high.
Is it an easy walk from the car to the water's edge at The Landing?
When was the Rotorua CBD skatepark built?
RotovegasCity guide
The skatepark was first built in 1998, with an extension added a few years later. It sits at the Sheaf Park site on the corner of Amohau and Ranolf Streets.
Is there a drinking tap near the skatepark or should I bring my own water?
Is there a boat ramp at the Ōhau Channel?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, there are twin boat ramps at the Ōhau Delta, but one is temporarily closed for repair work on the diversion wall. That leaves one ramp open until the works are finished.
How far is the walk from where you park to the weir pool, and is the path easy going?
Why are the trout hard to catch in Lake Rerewhakaaitu?
RotovegasCity guide
The water is very clear, so trout are easy to see but easy to spook. Quiet, careful casting matters more than heavy gear.
How far is the walk from the car to the water at the shore spots?
Is there a car park at Te Ruato Bay on Lake Rotoiti?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, there is a car park at the Te Ruato Bay start on Lake Rotoiti. From there the track climbs steeply for about 15 minutes to a ridge with good views of the lake.
Are there any toilets along the track, say at the Outdoor Education Centre?
Is it safe to bathe in the geothermal water near the Isthmus Track?
RotovegasCity guide
Keep your head out of it. Don't put your head under geothermal water here, because of the risk of amoebic meningitis, which is fatal. The amoeba enters through the nose.
Are there any steep bits on the Isthmus Track, or is it pretty flat all the way?
Is there a shop or petrol station near Lake Rotomā?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes. There is a waterfront camping ground near the Whangaroa reserve, with a petrol station and a general store.
Is there any shade by the water at Whangaroa in the afternoon, or is it all open?
What type of fly line works best off the Awahou mouth?
RotovegasCity guide
Floating or intermediate lines are best, because the water off the Awahou mouth is shallow.
How's the path from the car park to the lake? Easy going or boggy after rain?
Are there toilets at the Blue Lake reserve on Tarawera Road?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, the reserve has public toilets. There's also a children's playground, picnic tables and electric barbecues that run on a timer.
How long is the carry from the carpark to the beach with rods and gear? Easy enough?
How do I get to Kennedy Bay on Lake Rotoehu?
RotovegasCity guide
From Manawahe Road, go 1.5 kilometres along Pongakawa Valley Road and Kennedy Bay is on your left. There is a jetty and a boat ramp there.
Is there anywhere to get changed at Otautu Bay or Kennedy Bay?
Are there public toilets at Boyes Beach on Lake Ōkāreka?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, Boyes Beach has free public toilets. There is also a free picnic area and free barbecues, and showers cost $2.
Anyone launched a trailer boat at Ōkāreka? Where's the ramp and what's it like?
How long is the Tuhoto Ariki Trail from start to finish?
RotovegasCity guide
It is about 5 km one way. It starts at the highest point in Whakarewarewa Forest, Tawa at 765 m.
Is there room to park at the top of Tawa Road, or do most people start from Waipa?
Can you walk or cycle from Piripai into Whakatāne?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, there are walking tracks and a cycleway near Piripai Beach that go into Whakatāne, so you can walk or ride into town.
Is there anywhere to rinse off after a swim at Piripai, like an outdoor shower?
Can you walk to Ōtarawairere Bay from West End?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, Ōtarawairere Bay can be reached on foot. It's a secluded beach with no road access, so walking or kayaking are the only ways in.
Is there much shade on the beach in the afternoon, or should I bring my own?
Do I need to clean my boat before launching on the Rotorua lakes?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes. Boat ramp users must certify the boat, craft and trailer are free of freshwater pest fish and plants. Any boat that has been in the Waikato River in the last 30 days needs a wash station clean first.
Is there any shade near the bank by the bridge in the afternoon, or is it all full sun?
How far is Te Kopia Walk from Rotorua?
RotovegasCity guide
It's about 39 km south of Rotorua. From Waiotapu, take Waikite Valley Road for about 9 km, then Te Kopia Road, and the track starts about 8 km along.
Are there any toilets at the start of the Te Kopia walk, or should I go before I leave?
Can you keep going past Humphries Bay to Tarawera Outlet?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes. From Humphries Bay you can carry on to Tarawera Outlet along the Northern Tarawera Track, or return the same way you came.
Has anyone taken a pram along the first bit to the Soundshell?
Are dogs allowed on the King Hill Reserve walking track in Mamaku?
RotovegasCity guide
No, dogs are not allowed on the King Hill Reserve Walking Track, so leave them at home.
How muddy does it get after rain, and is it still okay in normal sneakers?
Do I share the Utuhina Stream path with walkers when I'm on a bike?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, the Utuhina Stream path is a shared path, so expect walkers and people with prams along with other riders.
Is it easy to find a park near the lakefront start, or does it fill up on weekends?
Can I start the Northern Tarawera Track from either end?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, you can walk it from either end, starting at the Tarawera Outlet swing bridge or at Humphries Bay. Both the Outlet and Humphries Bay have campsites with toilets.
Is there much shade along the track, or is it pretty exposed in the afternoon sun?
What is the Utuhina Stream like down near Lake Road?
RotovegasCity guide
Near Lake Road it is a deep, slow stream with a pumice bed and some geothermal influence. Public access there is limited, and the water further upstream is more popular with anglers.
Is the Utuhina Walkway manageable in a wheelchair, or is it rough in places?
How far is Whirinaki Waterfall from Rotorua?
RotovegasCity guide
The Whirinaki forest park is about 90 km south-east of Rotorua. You reach it via Minginui Road, off Te Whaiti Road (the old SH38), then Old Te Whaiti Road and River Road.
Has anyone taken a dog on the Whirinaki Waterfall loop? How did it go?
What is there to do at the Redwoods apart from the walking and biking tracks?
RotovegasCity guide
There's a Tree Walk, orienteering courses, a gift shop and visitor centre, and a multisport venue. The forest also has panoramic views over Rotorua city.
How steep are the climbs on the Forest Loop for someone of average fitness?
How long does the Waipā to Dipper loop take to ride?
RotovegasCity guide
Allow two to three hours. It's an easy grade 2 loop of 5 to 6.5 km, and some locals reckon it's the best beginner or kids' loop in the forest.
Has anyone taken an e-bike on the beginner trails at Waipā? How did it go?
How long is the walk from Lake Tarawera over to Lake Rotomahana?
RotovegasCity guide
The Isthmus Track is 1.2 km one way and takes about 20 minutes. It's an easy short walk, and boaties on Lake Tarawera often tie up at Rāpatu Bay to start it.
Is the shore easy enough for kids who are just learning to fish?
Is there parking closer to the Trout Pool than the main car park?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes. A small gravel parking area beside the road above the Trout Pool, at the northern end of the reserve, is closer. The main sealed car park is at the southern end.
Can you take a dog down to the Trout Pool, and do they need to be on a lead?
Are dogs allowed at Lake Ōkaro?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, dogs are allowed at Lake Ōkaro as long as they are kept on a lead.
How close can you park to the shore at Ōkaro? Is it a long carry with fishing gear?
What time are the vehicle gates open at the Redwoods?
RotovegasCity guide
The main gates are open for vehicles from 5.30am to 10.30pm. You can walk or bike in at any time, but it's best to stick to daylight hours for safety.
How hard is it to find a park at the i-SITE on a sunny weekend?
How long should I allow for the Lake Ōkāreka walkway?
RotovegasCity guide
Allow about 1.5 hours return. It starts at the reserve on Acacia Road and is wheelchair and pram accessible as far as Silver Beach, about 2 km along.
Do kids get bored on the Redwoods loop or is there enough to keep them interested?
Can I take my dog on the Te Tihi o Tawa trail?
RotovegasCity guide
No, dogs aren't allowed on Te Tihi o Tawa. It's a 1.5 km one way Grade 3 trail that starts at the top of Tawa.
How quickly does the Waipā car park fill up on a weekend morning?
Is there phone reception on the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, reception is good along most of the loop, though it can get patchy around Tikitapu.
Is there drinking water at the hub to fill bottles, or should I bring my own?
Is the tap water at Guy Roe Reserve safe to drink?
RotovegasCity guide
Boil it for 3 minutes first. Guy Roe Reserve has a tap, but the water needs boiling before you drink it.
How level is the ground for tents and campervans at Guy Roe Reserve?
Can you ride horses at Hannahs Bay Reserve?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, there is a horse bridle trail running through the reserve.
How close can you park to the playground at Hannahs Bay?
Do I have to share the path with walkers?
RotovegasCity guide
Yes, it's a shared path, so expect walkers and prams on it. Keep an eye out for them and ride to the conditions.
Are there any toilets along the trail or in the reserves?
Nothing here right now.