Don’t miss the chance to explore Rotorua’s stunning lakes, including the picturesque Lake Tarawera, the expansive Lake Rotoiti, the tranquil Lake Ōkāreka, and the vibrant blue waters of Lake Tikitapu.
Discover the breath-taking beauty and thrilling adventures awaiting you in Rotorua, a destination renowned for its 18 magnificent lakes, three major rivers, and an abundance of ways to enjoy them – including at night.
By day, immerse yourself in a variety of water activities such as swimming, fishing, lakeside picnicking, stand-up paddle boarding, and other exciting water sports. Whether you’re setting sail with a boat, grabbing your floaties, or just looking to relax by the water, our beautiful lakes promise endless fun and relaxation.
For a truly unique experience, escape to one of Rotorua’s two secluded thermal hot water beaches – Hot Water Beach at Te Rātā Bay or Manupirua Springs Hot Pools at Lake Rotoiti – accessible only by water shuttles, water taxi, jet boat, floatplane, or a scenic hike along Tarawera Trail. Let the warm waters melt your worries away.
Thrill-seekers will find their paradise with exhilarating jet boat tours. Choose from a ride through a thrilling, man-made river course at Velocity Valley, or race across Lake Rotorua with Katoa Jet.
One of Rotorua’s world-famous adventures awaits adrenaline junkies. Kaituna River offers the opportunity to plunge over the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall with local whitewater rafting companies, or in a guided tandem kayak with New Zealand Whitewater Academy.
By night, venture out on a canoe with Waimarino Kayak Tours, or kayak or SUP with Paddle Board Rotorua tour across a serene lake to witness the magical glow worms illuminating the night.
Rotorua is a destination where natural beauty meets adventure, creating unforgettable memories for every visitor.
Boyes Beach & Park
Lakes & Rivers, East
Boyes Beach is one of the largest beaches on Lake Ōkāreka and a great attraction during the warmer months, and popular for swimming, fishing and picnicking.
Hamurana Springs Nature Reserve
Lakes & Rivers, Central
Discover the beauty of Hamurana Springs at your own pace or be guided by a descendant of the Ngāti Rangiwewehi people who first migrated to the area in the mid-1300s. Enjoy the stunning natural elements and cultural stories that make this such a magical place.
Hot Water Beach at Te Rātā Bay
Lakes & Rivers, East
Tucked away on the southern shore of Lake Tarawera, a hot spring trickles down a small stream and into the lake, creating our very own hot water beach at Te Rātā Bay.
Lake Ōkāreka
Lakes & Rivers, East
One of the smaller lakes in the Rotorua region, Lake Ōkāreka remains off the beaten path, tucked away off the main road accessing lakes Tikitapu and Tarawera.
Lake Ōkāreka Walkway
Lakes & Rivers, East
Lake Ōkāreka is popular with water skiers, swimmers, boaties and walkers.
Lake Ōkataina
Lakes & Rivers, East
Lake Ōkataina is closed for one month effective from October 1st 2023. The name Ōkataina means "The lake of laughter", a shortened form of the original name Te Moana-i-kataina-a-Te Rangitakaroro.
Lake Rerewhakaaitu
Lakes & Rivers, South
Camping, picnicking, swimming and boating are all popular recreational activities at Lake Rerewhakaaitu Recreational Reserve.
Lake Rotoiti
Lakes & Rivers, East
Lake Rotoiti is one of the three largest lakes in the Rotorua region. Surrounded by lush native bush, it also features glow worm caves and a secluded hot pool complex.
Lake Rotomā
Lakes & Rivers, East
Lake Rotomā means "lake of exceptionally clear water". The lake currently has the best water quality of all the Rotorua lakes.
Lake Rotomahana
Lakes & Rivers, South
Sitting at the base of Mount Tarawera, Lake Rotomahana is steeped in history and surrounded by geothermal features like geysers, fumeroles and colourful steaming cliffs.