Lake Ōkāreka
Walking & Hiking
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.
Its name Ōkāreka means "the lake of sweet food". In early times, Māori grew sweet potatoes or kumara around the outside of the lake. Now the area is residential with a handful of recreational activities.
The main activities enjoyed here are trout fishing, boating, paddle boarding and walking, with a number of great spots for picnics and barbecues. Rotorua Duck Tours visit the lake on their tours, and you can go horse trekking on the surrounding farmland with great views of the lake and out to Mount Tarawera.
The large sandy beach and safe swimming area, plus children's make Boyes Beach one of the most popular areas on the lake.
The Lake Ōkāreka Campsite off Millar Road is a scenic camping spot with a cooking shelter and basic toilet facilities, and Boyes Beach has a designated overnight parking area for motorhomes and campervans.
The main activities enjoyed here are trout fishing, boating, paddle boarding and walking, with a number of great spots for picnics and barbecues. Rotorua Duck Tours visit the lake on their tours, and you can go horse trekking on the surrounding farmland with great views of the lake and out to Mount Tarawera.
The large sandy beach and safe swimming area, plus children's make Boyes Beach one of the most popular areas on the lake.
Walking & Biking Trails
The Lake Ōkāreka Walkway is a 5.5km return scenic walkway with a long boardwalk section through the wetlands. This flat and easy walking trail is popular with young families and bird watchers.Accommodation & Camping
Accommodation around Lake Ōkāreka is predominantly private holiday homes and bed and breakfasts.The Lake Ōkāreka Campsite off Millar Road is a scenic camping spot with a cooking shelter and basic toilet facilities, and Boyes Beach has a designated overnight parking area for motorhomes and campervans.