Last updated July 2026
Lake Ōkāreka is a small lakeside settlement on the shores of Lake Ōkāreka, east of Rotorua in the cluster of smaller lakes between Lake Rotorua and Lake Tarawera. The township covers 0.82 km² and had an estimated population of 480 as of June 2025, with a 2023 census count of 462. Lake Ōkāreka is one of four small lakes in the eastern Rotorua district, alongside Lake Rotokākahi, Lake Tikitapu and Lake Ōkataina. The settlement consists primarily of lakeside homes and holiday properties surrounded by native bush and reserve land.
Practical Information
| Location | East of Rotorua, in the eastern lakes district between Lake Rotorua and Lake Tarawera |
| Township area | 0.82 km² |
| Population | 480 (June 2025 estimate); 462 (2023 census) |
| Lake circumference | 9.7 km |
| Lake elevation | 353.6 m above sea level (approximately 60 m above Lake Tarawera) |
| Recreation | Swimming, kayaking, fishing, boating, walking |
| Access | Public reserves and walkway; dogs allowed with seasonal restrictions |
About Lake Ōkāreka
Lake Ōkāreka is one of four small lakes lying between Lake Rotorua and Lake Tarawera in the Bay of Plenty Region. The others are Lake Rotokākahi (Green Lake), Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake), and Lake Ōkataina. The lake has a circumference of 9.7 km, a surface area of 3.3 km², an average depth of 20 m and a maximum depth of 34 m. It sits at a surface elevation of 353.6 m above sea level, approximately 60 m above neighbouring Lake Tarawera.
The lake is used extensively for recreation such as boating, swimming, kayaking and rainbow trout fishing. The surrounding land is a mix of private residential properties and reserve areas. Rotorua Lakes Council maintains reserves including Boyes Beach, which offers swimming spots, picnic areas, barbecues and a children’s playground. Two camping areas are available, and the Ōkāreka walkway provides public access along the shore.
Settlement around the lake began in the late 19th century when European settlers acquired lakeside sections and built houses. The greater part of the basin has now become residential and reserve land. The lake has reasonably clear water but faces nutrient pressures from surrounding land use; a catchment management plan addresses water quality.
Ōkāreka means “the lake of sweet food” and was visited and described by Sir George Grey in 1849–1850. The area was traditionally used by Māori for cultivations, fishing and hunting.
Ōkāreka Walkway and Reserves
The Ōkāreka walkway starts from a council reserve on Acacia Road and runs roughly 2.5 km around the shore to the outlet. The track passes through native trees and shrub, farmland, beach and wetland areas over a timber boardwalk. It is wheelchair and pushchair accessible until Silver Beach (about 2 km) and takes approximately 1.5 hours return. Dogs and bicycles are not permitted on the walkway. Boyes Beach reserve provides additional facilities including public toilets, paid showers and overnight parking for motorhomes (maximum two consecutive nights per calendar month, fees apply).
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe Lake Ōkāreka as a calm, sheltered spot ideal for swimming, picnics and relaxed lakeside walks, with clear water and native bush surroundings that feel peaceful compared with busier Rotorua attractions.
Many appreciate the easy access via the walkway and reserves, noting good facilities at Boyes Beach and the opportunity for family-friendly fishing or kayaking in a scenic, low-key setting.
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia — Lake Ōkāreka: Detailed geographic, historical and demographic information on the lake and township.
Rotorua Lakes Council — Lake Ōkāreka & Boyes Beach: Official details on reserves, camping, walkway and facilities.
Department of Conservation — Lake Ōkāreka Campsite: Information on the DOC campsite and lake recreation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lake Ōkāreka?
East of Rotorua in the eastern lakes district, one of four small lakes between Lake Rotorua and Lake Tarawera, at 353.6 m elevation and approximately 60 m above Lake Tarawera.
What is the population of the Lake Ōkāreka settlement?
The township had an estimated population of 480 as of June 2025 and recorded 462 residents in the 2023 census.
What activities are available at Lake Ōkāreka?
Swimming, kayaking, fishing, boating and walking on the Ōkāreka walkway through native bush and reserves. Boyes Beach offers picnic facilities and a playground.
Is Lake Ōkāreka accessible to the public?
Yes. Public reserves and the walkway provide access. Dogs are allowed on reserves with seasonal restrictions (not permitted 9am–7pm from 15 December to 1 March).
What other lakes are nearby?
Lake Rotokākahi (Green Lake), Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Lake Ōkataina lie in the same eastern Rotorua lake district.
Are there camping options at Lake Ōkāreka?
Yes. Two camping areas are available, including a DOC campsite and Boyes Beach (motorhomes and campervans only, maximum two nights, fees apply, no tents or reservations).
Is the water quality suitable for swimming?
The lake has reasonably clear water and is used for recreation, though nutrient levels are monitored under a catchment management plan.
When did settlement begin around the lake?
European settlement began in the late 19th century with the acquisition of lakeside sections and construction of houses.
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