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Lake Okareka
Lake/Outdoor Recreation

Lake Okareka

New Zealand
4.6
(250 reviews)
2
Tours Available
$0 (public access)
Adult Entry
2-3 hours
Recommended Duration
October-May
Best Time

Overview

Lake Okareka is a picturesque lake located within the Rotorua district, known for its stunning scenery and recreational opportunities. The lake is part of the Rotorua Lakes area, which is renowned for its geothermal activity and Maori cultural significance.

Lake Okareka is part of the Rotorua Lakes area, which is known for its geothermal activity and cultural significance to the local Maori people. The lake offers a variety of recreational activities and stunning views.

Scenic Views Water Activities

Location

Address

State Highway 30, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty 3074

Neighborhood: Lake District

Coordinates

-38.142000, 176.169000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday Open 24 hours
tuesday Open 24 hours
wednesday Open 24 hours
thursday Open 24 hours
friday Open 24 hours
saturday Open 24 hours
sunday Open 24 hours

Admission

Adults
$0 (public access)
Children
$0 (public access)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

October-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better wildlife spotting

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
30 minutes
Recommended
2-3 hours
Full Experience
Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm

  • • Wildflowers
  • • Migratory birds

summer

Warm to hot

  • • Swimming
  • • Kayaking

autumn

Cool to mild

  • • Fall colors
  • • Quieter setting

winter

Cool to cold

  • • Geothermal steam
  • • Peaceful atmosphere

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Check weather conditions
  • Bring appropriate clothing
  • Carry water and snacks

What to Bring

essential

Swimsuit Towel Sunscreen

recommended

Camera Binoculars Hiking shoes

seasonal

Jacket Umbrella Hat

not allowed

Glass containers Drones without permission

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to moderate

  • • Watch for geothermal hazards
  • • Stay hydrated

Medical facilities: Nearest medical facility is 10 minutes away

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit Cards

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Typical Costs

parking $5
rental equipment $20
guided tours $50

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable, Layered clothing, swimwear, Comfortable walking shoes or sandals, Inappropriate or offensive clothing

Booking Tips

  • • Not typically required, but recommended for water activities
  • • Local tour operators or activity websites
  • • Varies by activity provider
  • • Not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Rotorua Lakes App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Maps, Activity guides, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Nearby cafes and visitor centers

Charging Stations: Limited availability

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Rotorua Regional Airport

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 20 minutes

taxi
$40 20 min
public_transport
$5 30 min

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

bus
$2 15 min
taxi
$15 10 min
bike
25 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, cultural significance

Historical Significance: Part of the Rotorua Lakes area with rich Maori history

Insider Tips

  • Best views from the southern end of the lake
  • Local markets offer unique souvenirs

Local Recommendations

  • • Visit nearby geothermal attractions
  • • Try local Maori cuisine at nearby restaurants

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Kia ora
thank_you Kia ora
where_is Kei hea
how_much He aha te utu
beautiful Rere
ticket Tikiti

Guide Languages: English, Maori, Japanese

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Lake Okareka Lookout

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle for landscape shots

Result: Stunning lake and mountain views

#LakeOkareka #Rotorua #NewZealand

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Designated trails
prohibited areas Geothermal hazards, Private property
flash photography Allowed in most areas
commercial photography Permit may be required
drone policy Permit required for drone use
tripod policy Allowed in most areas
selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Lake Rotorua

Distance: 5km

Walking: 60 min

Type: Lake/Outdoor Recreation

Te Puia

Distance: 7km

Walking: 90 min

Type: Geothermal Park

Rotorua Museum

Distance: 5km

Walking: 60 min

Type: Museum

Redwoods Treewalk

Distance: 8km

Walking: 100 min

Type: Forest Walk

Reviews

4.6

Based on 250 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Visit early for peaceful experience"
  • "Bring swimwear for water activities"
  • "Explore nearby geothermal sites"

Contact Information

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Quick Info

Available Tours

2

Rating

4.6 / 5.0

Reviews

250

Adult Entry

$0 (public access)

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