Last updated July 2026
Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve, officially Maunga Kākaramea and Waiotapu Scenic Reserve, is a free Department of Conservation reserve located 26 km south-east of Rotorua beside State Highway 5. The mountain’s slopes display vivid reds, yellows, and whites from mineral deposits including silica, sulphur, and iron compounds left by geothermal activity. These colours contrast with the surrounding native bush. Two main walking tracks provide access: the short Crater Lake Walk and the longer Summit Track, which offers 360-degree views across the Rotorua lakes district to Lake Taupō and the Tongariro volcanic peaks.
Practical Information
| Location | SH5 (Rotorua–Taupō highway), 26 km south-east of Rotorua; car park on the left just past the SH38 Murupara turnoff |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Crater Lake Walk | 1 km return; easy; reaches two crater lakes in approximately 15 minutes one way from the car park |
| Summit Track | 2.5 km one way; advanced; 1 hour 30 minutes one way; 360° views at summit |
| Entry | Free |
| Dogs | No dogs allowed |
| Mountain biking | Shared-use track; cyclists access via Te Ara Ahi Cycle Trail |
About Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve
Maunga Kākaramea lies in the Bay of Plenty region and forms part of the Maunga Kākaramea, Waiotapu and Te Kopia Scenic Reserves. Geothermal activity has shaped the landscape, exposing bare volcanic soil stained by mineral deposits that create the striking colours responsible for the common name Rainbow Mountain.
The reserve sits beside the Rotorua–Taupō highway and offers visitors an accessible introduction to the area’s volcanic geology. The lower sections feature steaming vents and pale blue-green crater lakes, while higher ground provides expansive vistas of the central North Island volcanic arc.
Visitor facilities are minimal, with the main car park serving as the starting point for both tracks. The site is popular for short walks and longer hikes, and it pairs well with nearby geothermal attractions along State Highway 5.
Walking Tracks
The Crater Lake Walk is an easy 1 km return option suitable for most fitness levels. It reaches two crater lakes within about 15 minutes one way and passes through areas of vividly coloured geothermal ground where mineral staining is most visible on exposed soil.
The Summit Track continues from the crater lakes to the top of Maunga Kākaramea. This 2.5 km one-way route takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to the summit and is rated advanced due to steeper, less formed sections in the upper reaches. The full return journey is longer than the original lower-track option.
From the summit, clear days reveal a broad panorama including Mount Tarawera to the north, the Paeroa Range to the west, the Te Urewera ranges to the east, and Lake Taupō with the Tongariro peaks (Ruapehu, Ngāuruhoe, and Tongariro) to the south. The track forms part of shared-use routes that also connect to the wider Te Ara Ahi Cycle Trail.
What Visitors Often Say
The short crater lakes section delivers striking mineral colours and steaming vents without a long commitment, while the summit provides one of the broadest views in the Rotorua area. Many note the track becomes steeper higher up and recommend allowing extra time for photos and rest stops.
Visitors frequently combine the reserve with nearby Wai-O-Tapu and appreciate the free access and lack of crowds compared with commercial geothermal sites. The colourful ground and panoramic outlook are highlighted as highlights for both casual walkers and those seeking a moderate challenge.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Maunga Kākaramea Crater Lake Walk: official details on the short easy track, access, and conditions.
DOC — Maunga Kākaramea Summit Track: official track information, difficulty rating, and current alerts.
NewZealand.com — Rainbow Mountain: overview of the reserve, tracks, and surrounding geothermal features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve?
26 km south-east of Rotorua on SH5 (the Rotorua–Taupō highway). The car park is on the left side of the highway just past the SH38 Murupara turnoff.
Is Rainbow Mountain free?
Yes, the reserve is free to visit with no entry fee for the walking tracks.
How long does the Summit Track take?
The Summit Track is 2.5 km one way and takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes one way. The Crater Lake Walk reaches the lakes in about 15 minutes one way.
What are the views from the summit?
360-degree views include Mount Tarawera and lakes to the north, the Paeroa Range to the west, Te Urewera ranges to the east, and Lake Taupō with the Tongariro volcanic peaks to the south.
Why is it called Rainbow Mountain?
The common name comes from the vivid mineral staining on the geothermal slopes in reds, yellows, whites, and ochres from silica, iron, and sulphur deposits. The Māori name is Maunga Kākaramea.
Can I take a dog?
No dogs are allowed on the tracks in the reserve.
Is mountain biking allowed?
The tracks are shared use. Cyclists can access the area via the Te Ara Ahi Cycle Trail, which passes through the reserve.
Are there any facilities?
Facilities are limited to the car park at the trailhead. There are no toilets or other amenities on site.
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