Rotorua is a Land of Lakes and Rivers
Rotorua City is surrounded by 13 major lakes as well as a variety of geothermal areas and scenic reserves. The city of Rotorua nestles on the shores of the largest lake, Lake Rotorua.
Photographer: Waimangu Volcanic Valley
(www.waimangu.com)
The Rotorua Lakes include:
- Lake Rotorua
- Lake Tarawera
- Lake Rotoiti
- Lake Rotoma
- Lake Rotoehu
- Lake Okataina
- Lake Rotokakahi (Green Lake)
- Lake Rotomahana
- Lake Rerewhakaaitu
- Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake)
- Lake Okareka
- Lake Okaro
The lakes were all formed by cataclysmic volcanic activity in times past.
Many of the Rotorua Lakes are steeped in Māori legend and history. You'll hear stories of phantom canoes seen gliding in the mist and lovers who swam the lakes to rendezvous in secret hideaways.
The lakes are managed by the Department of Conservation.
Rotorua Lakes Activities
The Rotorua Lakes offer a huge range of activities. You can cruise, kayak, ski and sail on these shimmering water-filled craters. Or you can ride the wild rapids and waterfalls along some of the rivers that run into them. Whatever your pleasure, Rotorua's stunning natural setting offers endless possibilities for relaxation, fun and adventure.
For the angler, the lakes and rivers teem with trophy sized rainbow trout. Professional guides are available to reveal the best spots to you - and many will guarantee you a catch. In fact, you're likely to find Rotorua the easiest place in New Zealand to hook a trout! The main lakes for fishing are: Rotorua, Rotoiti, Tarawera, Okataina and Rotoma.
There are also a huge variety of walking trails surrounding the Rotorua Lakes.
