The Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve sits 20 kilometres north-east of Rotorua on State Highway 30, encompassing native forest around the shores of Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoehu. The reserve’s main walking track — Hinehopu’s Track (also known as Hongi’s Track) — connects the two lakes through a corridor of mature native bush, following a route with significant Māori and early European history. Lake Rotoiti itself is a popular recreational lake for boating, fishing, and swimming, and the reserve provides walking access to the lakeshore forest that surrounds it.
Practical Information
| Location | 20km north-east of Rotorua off SH30 |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Hinehopu’s Track | 5.6km (one way); easy; ~1.5–2 hours one way; connects Lake Rotoiti to Lake Rotoehu |
| Entry | Free |
| Dogs | Not permitted |
| Access | Track can be accessed from either the Lake Rotoiti end (Korokitewao Bay) or the Lake Rotoehu end |
Hinehopu’s Track
Hinehopu’s Track runs 5.6 kilometres between Korokitewao Bay on Lake Rotoiti and Te Pohue Bay on Lake Rotoehu, passing through mature native forest. Rated easy, it takes approximately one and a half to two hours one way — the track can be walked as a return trip from either end, or with transport arranged at both ends. A short side track leads to Hinehopu’s Tree, a large old specimen associated with the track’s Māori history.
The track follows a route used for centuries by Māori travelling between the two lakes. The European historical association is with Hongi Hika, the Ngāpuhi chief, who is said to have used this route in the 1820s to transport war canoes overland between Lake Rotoehu and Lake Rotoiti — hence the alternative name Hongi’s Track. The native forest on either side of the track is mature bush, with tawa, rimu, and tree ferns forming the main canopy.
Lake Rotoiti
Lake Rotoiti is one of the larger lakes in the Rotorua district and a well-established recreation destination. The Okere Falls area, at the northern end of the lake, has a picnic area and short walks to the falls themselves — a popular stop accessible from SH33. The lake is used extensively for boating, waterskiing, and fishing, with a holiday park and other accommodation at Okere Falls for visitors wanting to base themselves in the area.
The western end of Lake Rotoiti, around Te Ruato Bay, is the start point for the Western Ōkataina Walkway — a longer track connecting through to Lake Ōkataina — for those wanting a more extended walk in the area.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Hinehopu/Hongi’s Track — official track information, access points, and current conditions.
Lake Rotoiti Community Association — Things to Do — local community guide to walking, boating, and activities around Lake Rotoiti.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve?
20km north-east of Rotorua on SH30. The main track access is at Korokitewao Bay on Lake Rotoiti, or from the Lake Rotoehu end.
How long is Hinehopu’s Track?
5.6km one way, rated easy, taking approximately 1.5–2 hours one way. It connects Lake Rotoiti to Lake Rotoehu through native forest.
Why is the track called Hinehopu’s Track?
The track is named after Hinehopu, a significant figure in local Māori tradition associated with this route between the lakes. It is also called Hongi’s Track, referencing Hongi Hika who used this route to carry war canoes overland in the 1820s.
Are dogs allowed at Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve?
Dogs are not permitted on Hinehopu’s Track or in the scenic reserve.
Can I swim at Lake Rotoiti?
Yes — Lake Rotoiti has swimming areas at various points around the lake, including near the Okere Falls area. The lake is popular for water sports and recreational swimming.
Is there anywhere to stay near Lake Rotoiti?
Yes — the Okere Falls area has a holiday park. The lake district also has private holiday homes and bach accommodation.
Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve is one of the eastern lake reserves in the Rotorua district. See the Rotorua parks and reserves guide for other options, and the Lake Ōkataina Scenic Reserve guide for the more remote reserve further east.
