Last updated July 2026
The Blue Lake Track is a 5.5 km loop walk around Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) in the Lake Tikitapu Scenic Reserve, 9 km south-east of Rotorua. The track follows the lake shoreline through native bush and pockets of forest, passing small beaches and a lookout offering views over both Tikitapu and the adjacent Rotokakahi (Green Lake). It is an easy walk taking 1.5–2 hours and is managed by the Department of Conservation.
Practical Information
| Distance | 5.5 km loop |
| Time | 1.5–2 hours |
| Grade | Easy — mostly flat lakeside track with some stairs to the lookout |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Reserve | Lake Tikitapu Scenic Reserve |
| Start / Finish | Blue Lake car park area off Tarawera Road, 9 km south-east of Rotorua |
| Cost | Free |
| Facilities | Toilets, car parking, picnic areas, BBQs, playground and swimming beach at the lake |
| Getting there | Approximately 15 minutes by car from central Rotorua via Te Ngae Road and Tarawera Road |
| Accessibility | Not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers due to steps, narrow sections and uneven surfaces |
Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake)
Lake Tikitapu is a small crater lake known for its clear blue water, which results from groundwater filtering through volcanic rock with minimal sediment. The name Tikitapu is associated with its sacred status in te reo Māori. The lake supports swimming and non-motorised water activities, with a popular beach and grassed areas near the main car park that are busy in summer.
Adjacent to Tikitapu and separated by a narrow ridge is Rotokakahi (Green Lake), a similarly clear crater lake that is tapu to local iwi and closed to public swimming or boating. The lookout on the track provides the best simultaneous views of both lakes.
The Track
The circuit follows the full perimeter of Lake Tikitapu through regenerating native bush. The track surface is mostly compacted dirt and well-formed path, though it includes a multi-flight staircase to the ridge lookout and some uneven sections with roots. A short roadside portion requires care with traffic. The lookout is the highest point and a natural rest spot before descending back toward the lake.
Clockwise travel is recommended. The track offers quiet beaches, forest shade and occasional lake glimpses through the trees. It connects with areas of Whakarewarewa Forest for longer options.
Where to Learn More
DOC – Blue Lake Track: official Department of Conservation page with track description, conditions and facilities.
Rotorua NZ – Lake Tikitapu: visitor information on the lake, swimming and surrounding reserve.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers enjoy the peaceful lakeside setting, clear water views and the highlight lookout over both Blue and Green Lakes. Many note the track is straightforward and family-friendly apart from the stairs, with good shade and picnic spots.
Reviewers appreciate the well-marked loop, native bush and swimming opportunities in summer. Some mention the roadside section requires extra caution and that the surface can be muddy after rain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Blue Lake Track?
5.5 km as a full loop, taking 1.5–2 hours at an easy pace.
Can you swim at Lake Tikitapu?
Yes, there is a beach and swimming area near the main car park. The adjacent Rotokakahi (Green Lake) is tapu and closed to swimming.
Where is the Blue Lake Track?
9 km south-east of Rotorua off Tarawera Road. 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 starting area.
What is the lookout on the Blue Lake Track?
A short staircase climbs to a ridge viewpoint with views over both Lake Tikitapu and Rotokakahi.
Is the track suitable for children?
Yes, it is easy overall, though the lookout stairs may need supervision for younger children.
Are there facilities at the lake?
Yes, toilets, parking, picnic tables, BBQs, a playground and swimming areas are available near the lake.
Is the track accessible?
No, it has steps, narrow sections and uneven surfaces that make it unsuitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
