Lake Tarawera, in the Bay of Plenty near Rotorua, is a large lake beneath Mount Tarawera, a dormant volcano. Its clear water and forested shores draw people for swimming, boating, fishing and walks, while the mountain gives the lake its distinctive backdrop. For a geothermal stop, head to Hot Water Beach at Te Rātā Bay, where a hot spring-fed stream meets the lake. Reach it by water taxi or on foot via the Tarawera Trail. A café sits beside the water at the lake’s small beach.
A lake beneath Mount Tarawera
Lake Tarawera lies in the Bay of Plenty, near Rotorua, with Mount Tarawera rising across the water. The dormant volcano erupted in 1886, destroying the Pink and White Terraces and affecting Māori settlements around the lake. The eruption remains part of the area’s history; the Buried Village of Te Wairoa is a place to learn more about its effects.
The lake covers about 39 to 41 square kilometres, according to the figures available, and reaches a depth of 87.5 metres. It is one of New Zealand’s largest lakes. Forested hills line parts of the shore, and the volcano can be seen from different points around the water.
Swimming, boating and fishing
People come to Lake Tarawera for water activities, including boating, swimming and fishing for rainbow trout. Public swimming access includes Tarawera Landing and Stoney Point, also known as Rangiuru Bay. The beach by the lakeside café is another stop, though it is small.
The lake is also a setting for walks and paddling. From the shore, the view takes in the water, surrounding hills and Mount Tarawera. At the wharf, the jetty is a useful spot for sunrise photographs; it is also noted for night-sky photography.
Reaching Hot Water Beach
Hot Water Beach, at Te Rātā Bay, is a geothermal stop where a hot spring-fed stream flows into the lake. A water taxi can take you to this more remote part of the shore. Alternatively, the Tarawera Trail leads to the beach through native bush. The walk is a substantial outing, so allow time for the route and your return plans.
At the beach, people can dig into the hot sand or build a small rock wall to make a warm pool. The water’s temperature and conditions are not specified here, so take care when entering the stream or soaking. A café beside the lake provides a place to stop for food by the water.
FAQ
How do you get to Hot Water Beach on Lake Tarawera?
Take a water taxi to Te Rātā Bay, or walk there on the Tarawera Trail.
Can you swim in Lake Tarawera?
Yes. Public swimming access includes Tarawera Landing and Stoney Point/Rangiuru Bay. The beach near the lakeside café is small.
What can you do at Hot Water Beach?
A hot spring-fed stream flows into the lake. You can dig into the hot sand or use rocks to shape a warm pool.
What is the history of Mount Tarawera?
Mount Tarawera erupted in 1886, destroying the Pink and White Terraces and affecting Māori settlements around the lake. The Buried Village of Te Wairoa covers the eruption’s effects.
