The Blue Lake Track is a 5.5-kilometre circuit walk around Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) in the Lake Tikitapu Scenic Reserve, 9 kilometres south-east of Rotorua. The track follows the lake’s shoreline through native bush, passing small beaches and a lookout with views over both Tikitapu and the adjacent Rotokakahi (Green Lake) — the sister lake that sits just over the ridge. It is an easy walk, taking around 1.5–2 hours, and managed by the Department of Conservation.
Practical Information
| Distance | 5.5 km loop |
| Time | 1.5–2 hours |
| Grade | Easy — mostly flat lakeside track; some stairs to the lookout |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Reserve | Lake Tikitapu Scenic Reserve |
| Start / Finish | Blue Lake car park, 9km south-east of Rotorua on SH30 |
| Cost | Free |
| Facilities | Toilets and car parking at the start; swimming area at the lake |
| Getting there | ~15 minutes by car from central Rotorua; accessible from the Rotorua-Whakatāne highway |
Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake)
Lake Tikitapu — the name roughly means “sacred lake” in te reo Māori — is a small but striking crater lake known for its exceptional water clarity. The blue colour is genuine: the lake’s water is remarkably clear, fed by groundwater filtering through volcanic rock rather than surface runoff, which keeps sediment levels very low. The lake is used for swimming and non-motorised water activities, and the car park area has a small beach that is popular in summer.
Adjacent to Tikitapu and separated by a narrow ridge is Rotokakahi (Green Lake) — a similarly clear but distinctly green-coloured crater lake. Rotokakahi is tapu (sacred) to local iwi and is not open to the public for swimming or boating. The Blue Lake Track’s lookout point — reached via a short flight of stairs — gives views over both lakes simultaneously, which is the highlight of the walk.
The Track
The circuit follows the full perimeter of Lake Tikitapu through regenerating native bush and pockets of mature forest. The track surface is mostly well-formed path, with the exception of the staircase section that climbs to the ridge lookout. Most of the circuit is flat and close to the water’s edge, with occasional views of the lake through the trees. The lookout above the two lakes is the highest point of the walk and the obvious rest spot before the descent back to the car park.
Where to Learn More
DOC – Blue Lake Track — official Department of Conservation track page with current conditions, distance, and facilities information.
AllTrails – Blue Lake Track — walker reviews, photos, and GPS map of the Lake Tikitapu circuit.
Rotorua NZ – Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) — visitor information including lake swimming and the surrounding reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Blue Lake Track?
5.5 kilometres as a loop, taking 1.5–2 hours at an easy walking pace.
Can you swim at Blue Lake (Tikitapu)?
Yes — there is a small beach and swimming area at the car park end of the lake. Lake Tikitapu is known for its clear water. The adjacent Rotokakahi (Green Lake) is tapu and not open to swimming.
Where is the Blue Lake Track?
9 kilometres south-east of Rotorua, off SH30 (the Rotorua–Whakatāne highway). Allow about 15 minutes driving time from the city centre.
Is the Blue Lake Track a loop?
Yes — the track circuits the full perimeter of Lake Tikitapu and returns to the same car park, covering the complete shoreline.
What is the lookout on the Blue Lake Track?
A short section of stairs climbs to a ridge viewpoint with views over both Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Rotokakahi (Green Lake) — the highlight of the walk.
Is the Blue Lake Track suitable for children?
Yes — the track is easy with the exception of the lookout staircase, which is manageable for most children.
Blue Lake Track is one of several lake walks near Rotorua. See the walking tracks in Rotorua hub for more options, including the Lake Okareka Walkway — another easy lakeside circuit in the same area.
