Hike around Lake Tikitapu

Lake Tikitapu is the smallest of the mountain lakes in the Rotorua area. Take Tarawera Rd about 9 kilometers and you'll run right into it. There is a huge lawn to the right that you can park on if the lot at the shore is full.

The beginning of the 5.5 kilometer trail starts on the right hand side of the lake at the base of the forest. The majority of the trail is covered with trees but there are multiple side trails that lead down to the waters edge to get a better view of the blue water or to find a more private beach for you and your crew. About half way around the lake the trail opens up offers more routes to the surrounding lakes, but if you stay left it will continue around Lake Tikitapu. The whole hike will take you about an hour and a half as you walk through the forest and along the waters edge. At one point along the track you will come out of the forest to a clearing and a small grassy knoll that offers views of both the Blue and Green Lakes.

There are endless activities to do at the lake but if you only have a small window of time, just watching the sunset and feeding the ducks at the shore is all you will need.