Last updated October 2026
The Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve lies 20 kilometres north-east of Rotorua off State Highway 30 and protects native forest along the shores of Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoehu. The reserve forms part of Rotorua’s network of lakeside parks and scenic reserves managed for recreation and conservation.
Its main feature is Hinehopu’s Track, also known as Hongi’s Track, which links the two lakes through mature bush and carries both Māori and early European history. Lake Rotoiti itself supports boating, fishing and swimming, with easy walking access to the shoreline forest.
Swimming Facts
Before you swim: Tested weekly Nov–May by Bay of Plenty Regional Council. Stay out for 48 hours after heavy rain. Latest result on LAWA
Today at Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve
Thursday 22 OctoberWater quality track record
Excellent at 1 testing spot, Good at 1 (2019 to 2025), plus 2 checked for toxic algae onlyShowHide
What the grades mean
Excellent and Good: rarely unsafe for swimming. Fair: usually fine, but avoid swimming after rain. Poor: often unsuitable, especially after rain, so check the latest result first.
Grades use LAWA’s method: the 95th percentile of routine E. coli results over the five summers from 2020/21 to 2024/25, with at least 50 tests (Okawa Bay: 176 per 100 mL from 112 tests; Hinehopu: 97 per 100 mL from 112 tests).
Practical Information
- Location
- 20 km north-east of Rotorua off SH 30
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
- Hinehopu’s Track
- Easy walking track connecting Korokitewao Bay on Lake Rotoiti to Te Pōhue Bay on Lake Rotoehu
- Entry
- Free
- Dogs
- Not permitted
- Access
- Vehicle access available at both ends of the track
About Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve
Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve protects a corridor of native forest between two of the Rotorua lakes. The forest includes rimu, tawa, pukatea and rewarewa, providing habitat and scenic value. The reserve sits within the wider Rotorua lakes district, where multiple scenic reserves and parks offer public access to shorelines and bush.
The area holds cultural significance. The track is named after the Māori chieftainess Hinehopu, who lived in the district around 1620 and maintained homes at both lakes. In 1823 the Ngāpuhi leader Hongi Hika used the route to portage canoes between the lakes during a raid on Mokoia Island.
Visitors can combine the walk with lakeside activities. Korokitewao Bay offers a sandy beach, picnic tables, a playground and toilets. Other quiet spots around Lake Rotoiti provide additional picnic areas and swimming access.
Hinehopu’s Track
Hinehopu’s Track runs through mature native forest from Korokitewao Bay on Lake Rotoiti to Te Pōhue Bay on Lake Rotoehu. The easy-grade track suits most walkers and can be completed as a return journey or with transport arranged at each end. A short side loop near the sacred matai tree provides an optional detour before reaching Lake Rotoehu.
The route follows an ancient Māori pathway between the two lakes. European history links the track to Hongi Hika’s 1823 canoe portage. The surrounding bush offers a quiet forest experience with typical Rotorua canopy species.
Rotorua Parks and Reserves
Rotorua Lakes Council manages numerous lake reserves and parks around Lake Rotorua and the surrounding district. These include shoreline areas at Hamurana, Hannah’s Bay and Sulphur Point that provide views, fishing access and recreation space. Many reserves complement the Department of Conservation scenic reserves such as Lake Rotoiti by offering additional lakeside facilities and walking opportunities.
The network supports a range of activities including picnicking, short walks and water access. Visitors can combine time at Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve with other nearby council-managed sites for a full day exploring Rotorua’s parks and lakes.
Lake Rotoiti Recreation
Lake Rotoiti is popular for boating, waterskiing and trout fishing. The Okere Falls area at the northern end provides picnic facilities and short walks. Swimming is available at several bays, including Korokitewao Bay within the reserve. A holiday park at Okere Falls offers accommodation options for visitors staying in the area.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: official details on Hinehopu’s Track, access points and conditions.
Rotorua Lakes Council: information on lake reserves and parks across the Rotorua district.
Department of Conservation: overview of Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoma Scenic Reserves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve?
20 km north-east of Rotorua off State Highway 30, with track access at Korokitewao Bay on Lake Rotoiti or the Lake Rotoehu end.
How long is Hinehopu’s Track?
The easy track connects the two lakes through native forest and can be walked in a few hours one way, with the option to return or arrange transport.
Why is the track called Hinehopu’s Track?
It is named after the Māori chieftainess Hinehopu who lived in the area around 1620 and travelled between the lakes. It is also known as Hongi’s Track after the 1823 canoe portage by Hongi Hika.
Are dogs allowed at Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve?
Dogs are not permitted on Hinehopu’s Track or within the scenic reserve.
Can I swim at Lake Rotoiti?
Yes, swimming is popular at several bays including Korokitewao Bay, which has a sandy beach and facilities.
Is there anywhere to stay near Lake Rotoiti?
Accommodation options include a holiday park at Okere Falls and private holiday homes around the lake.
What other activities are available?
Boating, waterskiing and trout fishing are common on the lake, with picnic areas and short walks at Okere Falls.
How does the reserve fit into Rotorua’s parks?
It is one of several Department of Conservation scenic reserves and council-managed lake parks that together provide walking, swimming and recreation opportunities around Rotorua’s lakes.
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