Last updated July 2026
Lake Tikitapu, widely known as the Blue Lake, is a small, clear lake in the Lake Tikitapu Scenic Reserve, 9 kilometres south-east of Rotorua on Tarawera Road. The reserve sits alongside Whakarewarewa Forest and features a pumice sand beach, safe swimming, picnic areas, and two main walking tracks. It is managed by the Department of Conservation as a scenic reserve and forms part of Rotorua’s network of lake parks and reserves. The site offers easy access for day trips, family outings, and water-based recreation while protecting the adjacent Lake Rotokākahi, which remains closed to the public.
Practical Information
| Location | Tarawera Road, 9 km south-east of Rotorua via Te Ngae Road and the roundabout turn onto Tarawera Road |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation (scenic reserve); Rotorua Lakes Council (lake reserves network) |
| Blue Lake Track | 5.5 km loop; easy; approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Tikitapu Nature Walk | Short loop with interpretive panels; easy; approximately 30 minutes |
| Swimming | Safe from the pumice sand beach; shallow and sheltered near shore |
| Facilities | Pumice sand beach, boat ramp, electric BBQs, picnic tables, children’s playground, toilets, rubbish bins |
| Entry | Free |
About Lake Tikitapu Scenic Reserve
Lake Tikitapu lies in a scenic reserve that protects native bush and provides public access to the lake shore. The deep blue colour results from the lake’s clarity and depth, which absorbs longer light wavelengths. The reserve borders Whakarewarewa Forest, allowing visitors to combine lake activities with nearby forest trails.
The site serves as one of Rotorua’s most accessible lake reserves for swimming, picnicking, and short walks. It forms part of the broader Rotorua lakes reserves network managed in partnership between the Department of Conservation and Rotorua Lakes Council. The pumice sand beach and grassed areas support family use and water sports such as kayaking and boating via the boat ramp.
Immediately beside the reserve is Lake Rotokākahi, known as the Green Lake. This lake is privately owned by local iwi, designated wāhi tapu, and closed to all public access, including swimming and boating. The visual contrast between the two lakes is visible from the road and parts of the walking track.
The Blue Lake Track
The Blue Lake Track forms a 5.5-kilometre loop around Lake Tikitapu. It is rated easy with only minor elevation change of around 40 metres. The track passes through native bush and sections of exotic conifers in the adjacent Whakarewarewa Forest, with intermittent lake views. Several smaller beaches on the south and east sides are accessible from the track.
The walk starts and finishes at the main car park and beach area. It suits most fitness levels and takes roughly 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes at a steady pace. The track surface is well formed and suitable for a range of visitors.
Tikitapu Nature Walk
The Tikitapu Nature Walk is a shorter, separate loop within the reserve designed for all ages, including children. It features interpretive panels identifying native plants and birds along the route. The walk takes approximately 30 minutes and starts from the same main reserve area as the longer track.
This option provides an accessible introduction to the local forest ecology without requiring a full circuit of the lake. It remains a popular choice for families and those seeking a brief, informative stroll.
Swimming and Water Activities
The pumice sand beach offers one of the safer and more popular swimming spots among the Rotorua lakes. The water is clear and the near-shore area is shallow and sheltered, making it suitable for families. The lake supports kayaking, boating, water skiing, and jet skiing, with a boat ramp at the northern end.
Visitors should check current water quality information through Rotorua Lakes Council or LAWA before swimming. The reserve provides electric barbecues, picnic tables, and a children’s playground to support day visits.
Park and Scenic Reserve Context
Lake Tikitapu Scenic Reserve is one of several lakefront parks and reserves in the Rotorua district. It contributes to the city’s network of accessible outdoor spaces managed for recreation and conservation. The Department of Conservation oversees the scenic reserve status, while Rotorua Lakes Council coordinates broader lake reserve facilities and access.
The reserve’s location next to Whakarewarewa Forest enhances its appeal for combined visits. Entry remains free, and the site operates year-round with standard public access.
What Visitors Often Say
Blue Lake offers an easy day trip from Rotorua with clear water, a good walking track, and proper beach facilities. The track helps spread out crowds on busy days, and the contrast with the adjacent Green Lake is striking.
The short nature walk suits families and provides useful plant information. The beach area works well for picnics and swimming, though it can become busy on weekends and holidays.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Lake Tikitapu Scenic Reserve: official information on tracks, access, and reserve details.
Rotorua Lakes Council — Blue Lake (Tikitapu): local details on facilities, water sports, and lake reserves.
DOC — Tikitapu Nature Walk: specific track description and plant information panels.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Lake Tikitapu from Rotorua?
9 kilometres south-east of Rotorua, approximately 10 minutes by car via Te Ngae Road and a right turn at the roundabout onto Tarawera Road.
Is it safe to swim at Lake Tikitapu?
Yes, the pumice sand beach provides safe, shallow swimming close to shore. Check current water quality on the Rotorua Lakes Council or LAWA websites.
How long is the Blue Lake Track?
The track is a 5.5 km loop rated easy with minimal elevation change. It takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes.
What is the Tikitapu Nature Walk?
It is a short interpretive loop with plant and bird identification panels that takes about 30 minutes and suits all ages.
What facilities are available?
The reserve includes a pumice sand beach, boat ramp, electric BBQs, picnic tables, a children’s playground, and toilets. Entry is free.
Can I kayak or boat on the lake?
Yes, a boat ramp supports kayaking, boating, and other water sports.
Why is the adjacent Green Lake closed?
Lake Rotokākahi is privately owned by local iwi, designated wāhi tapu, and closed to all public access.
Is Lake Tikitapu part of Rotorua’s parks network?
Yes, it is a Department of Conservation scenic reserve within the Rotorua Lakes Council’s network of lake reserves and parks.
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