Last updated July 2026
Rerewhakaaitu is a small rural community about 30 kilometres east of Rotorua city, spread across volcanic soils surrounding the lake of the same name. Lake Rerewhakaaitu is the southernmost and highest of the Rotorua Te Arawa lakes at 438 metres above sea level. The area was the last of the Rotorua district’s farming lands to be developed after the 1886 Tarawera eruption deposited fertile tephra that later supported productive pasture once lowlands were drained. Today the community remains modest in size with a primary school, ongoing lake restoration work, and a quiet rural character.
Practical Information
| Location | Approximately 30 km east of Rotorua, Bay of Plenty |
| Access | Via SH30 east or SH5, then Rerewhakaaitu Road |
| Lake elevation | 438 m above sea level (highest Rotorua Te Arawa lake) |
| Lake character | Small, shallow lake (max depth around 15–16 m) with active restoration |
| Activities | Kayaking, non-motorised boating, fishing, picnics, scenic walks |
| Community school | Lake Rerewhakaaitu School, Years 1–8, roll around 55 |
About Lake Rerewhakaaitu
The name Rerewhakaaitu translates as the lake of wandering spirits. The 1886 Tarawera eruption deposited thick layers of tephra across the area, which eventually proved highly fertile for pastoral farming once drainage improved. The lake occupies a shallow basin and supports a small catchment dominated by farmland.
Water quality reflects surrounding land use, prompting long-term restoration efforts. The Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Programme and local sustainable farming initiatives involving around 25 farms work to reduce nutrient inputs through monitoring and best-practice changes. These projects collaborate with farmers, scientists and councils to improve lake health.
The surrounding landscape offers expansive views toward Mount Tarawera on clear days. Cooler temperatures at this elevation make mornings crisp even in summer compared with Rotorua city.
Activities at the Lake
Kayaking and non-motorised boating suit the lake’s calm, shallow waters. Guy Roe Reserve on Brett Road provides popular access for fishing, picnics and boat launching. Basic camping options exist nearby with minimal facilities.
Scenic walking and cycling routes follow the pastoral roads around the lake. The remote setting offers a quiet alternative to busier Rotorua lakes.
Rerewhakaaitu Community
Lake Rerewhakaaitu School serves local families with a roll maintained around 55 students. The community participates in lake restoration alongside Rotorua Lakes Council services shared with nearby rural areas such as Reporoa.
The area has longstanding Māori connections through hapū associated with the Tarawera rohe, where volcanic soils and water sources supported traditional life before European settlement and farming.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere and scenic views across the lake toward Tarawera. Many enjoy quiet kayaking or fishing from the shore and note the rural charm and lack of tourist crowds.
Reviewers describe the area as a genuine off-the-beaten-track spot ideal for a relaxed day trip. Comments often highlight the crisp air at elevation and the simple pleasure of picnics or walks in a working farming landscape.
Where to Learn More
Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA): Monitored water quality data and ecological health indicators for the lake.
Rotorua Lakes Council: Details on reserves, access and recreation at Lake Rerewhakaaitu.
Wikipedia — Lake Rerewhakaaitu: Geography, history and context within the Rotorua Te Arawa lakes (citing primary sources).
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Rerewhakaaitu from Rotorua?
Approximately 30 kilometres east, with a road distance of around 38 kilometres taking 30 to 40 minutes via SH30 or SH5 and Rerewhakaaitu Road.
What does Rerewhakaaitu mean?
The name translates as the lake of wandering spirits, reflecting the area’s deep Māori history and spiritual landscape connections.
Which is the highest Rotorua lake?
Lake Rerewhakaaitu at 438 metres above sea level. It is also the southernmost of the Rotorua Te Arawa lakes.
Is Lake Rerewhakaaitu good for kayaking?
Yes, the calm shallow waters suit kayaking and non-motorised boating. Access is typically from the shore or reserves such as Guy Roe Reserve.
Is there camping at Rerewhakaaitu?
Basic camping options exist in the area with minimal facilities. Check current access and restrictions with Rotorua Lakes Council.
What happened to the Rerewhakaaitu area in the 1886 eruption?
The Tarawera eruption deposited thick tephra across the district. The volcanic material later supported fertile farmland once drainage systems were established.
Are there reserves or facilities at the lake?
Yes, Rerewhakaaitu Domain and Guy Roe Reserve provide access for fishing, picnics and boating. The reserves are managed by Rotorua Lakes Council.
Is the lake part of any restoration programme?
Yes, the area participates in the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Programme with sustainable farming projects aimed at improving water quality.
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