Rotokare Walkways

The Rotokare Scenic Reserve Trust offers a couple of options for walkways - each catering for a range of fitness levels and time restraints. Find out more below, or visit their website at www.rotokare.org.nz

The Lake Walkway

Type of pathway: walking track

Distance: 4km

Grade of walk/ride: easy/moderate

Time to complete: 1.5 – 2hours

Description/history: Lake Rotokare Scenic Reserve is a stunning 230 hectare predator-free environment where you will be surrounded by native and endangered flora and fauna that is quickly regenerating in a protected environment.

The lake walkway comprises of 4km of meandering track that surrounds the 17ha lake. With the first 600 meters of boardwalk (up to wheelchair standard), all people can easily enjoy this fantastic reserve. There is now also an extended wheelchair accessible wetland boardwalk that leads onto a floating pontoon, for visitors to get closer to the wetland wildlife.

600m of barrier free boardwalk (up to wheelchair standard)
Wetland boardwalk and floating viewing platform (up to wheelchair standard)

Points of interest: There are many seats along the lake walkway to stop and enjoy the abundant bird life and native bush. The walkway makes its way through some breathtaking lowland forest before heading deep into Rotokare's swamp forest. You will see the great swamp forest giants (Kahikatea and pukatea), notice their gnarly buttress roots. Spend time looking in the small streams feeding into the lake, you may spot some of our native fish (banded kokopu)

Dangers/warnings/things to be aware of: Please note – Lake Rotokare is a predator-free zone so check your vehicle and bags for stowaway rodents before entering. A double gate system allows entry to the reserve - simply push the entry button for the gates to open automatically. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended as there are muddy areas. Dogs prohibited at all times. In winter areas of the track can become quite wet and muddy

Type of footwear required: sturdy walking shoes

Accessibility: walkers, mobility scooters, wheelchairs, prams and buggys, cycling restricted and no dogs allowed

How to get there: Starts at Lake Rotokare Information Hut at the end of Sangster Road (take Anderson Road off SH3, 12km east of Eltham). A double gate system allows entry to the reserve - simply push the entry button for the gates to open automatically.

Other contributors: Rotokare Scenic Reserve Trust

The Ridge Walk

Type of pathway: walking track

Distance: 6km

Grade of walk/ride: moderate/hard

Time to complete: 3 - 5 hours

Description/history: The ridge walk enables you to see the amazing predator-proof fence up close, and also allows you to take advantage of the wonderful vistas on offer from the ridgeline.

Points of interest: Starting opposite the boat ramp, the track meanders through some beautiful bush before meeting the fence line, you will then follow the fence around part of the perimeter of the reserve, before heading back down the old road, which then meets up approximately half way along the lake walkway track.

Dangers/warnings/things to be aware of: Please note – Lake Rotokare is a predatorfree zone so check your vehicle and bags for stowaway rodents before entering. A double gate system allows entry to the reserve - simply push the entry button for the gates to open automatically. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended as there are muddy areas. Dogs prohibited at all times. In winter areas of the track can become quite wet and muddy

Type of footwear required: sturdy walking shoes

Accessibility: walkers, no dogs allowed

How to get there: Access from State Highway 3 just north of Pātea via Ball Road and Rotorangi Road. The camp ground located by the dam offers toilet facilities, showers and tent sites.

Other contributors: Rotokare Scenic Reserve Trust