There are lots of walks within 2 hours drive of Rotorua that are amazing to do. Check out these half - full day walking tracks that are surrounded by beautiful forest and spectacular views. All of these Rotorua walks make for an unforgettable day of sightseeing:
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Tarawera Outlet to Tarawera Falls
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Mount Ngongotaha Scenic Reserve
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Tongariro Alpine Crossing
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Whakarewarewa Circuit
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Rainbow Mountain Summit Track
1. Tarawera Outlet to Tarawera Falls
Time: 3 hours
Distance: 10km return
This track begins at the Tarawera outlet which is about 1.5 hours drive from Rotorua. The easy walking track takes you exploring through native bush while following along the rivers edge. The river is crystal clear, with pohutukawa and rata trees surrounding the track making it the picture-perfect landscape. At the Tarawera Falls water gushes out of the 65m rock cliff face, hence why it is the most spectacular waterfall in the Rotorua region.
How to get there : Collect an access permit from the Kawerau iSite to access the forest road. Check out the directions from Rotorua iSite to the Tarawera outlet here.
Photo: Tarawera Outlet to Tarawera Falls is an awesome day walk we love in Rotorua
2. Mount Ngongotaha Scenic Reserve Jubilee Track
Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Distance: 2.4km return
One of the beautiful but lesser known Rotorua walks is the Mount Ngongotaha Jubilee Track. You'll be able to spot many native species along the track and this Rotorua walk is suitable for most fitness levels. Mount Ngongotaha is a volcanic dome that looks out over Rotorua city - 757m above sea level. Native forest surrounds the track that is rooty and at times can be steep. It is home to one of the largest rata trees in New Zealand. Read the information boards along the way and learn about the native forest and the conservation work that has been done on Mount Ngongotaha.
How to get there : The track to the summit is well sign posted and starts from Violet Bonnington Reserve. The reserve is located at the Rotorua end of Paradise Valley Road. Here is how you can find your way to the start of the track from the Rotorua iSite.
Photo: One of the lesser known but incredible Rotorua walks is the Mount Ngongotaha Jubile Track
3. Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Time: 6 - 8 hours
Distance: 19.4km one way
The Tongariro crossing is an iconic walk and is known as one of New Zealand's greatest day walks. Thousands of people walk the crossing every year to capture the stunning landscape that is a feature on the famous Lord of the Rings movies. The emerald lakes, volcanic peaks and the 360 degree views that look over to Mt Ngarohehe are spectacular - totally worth the 6-7 hour hike. Prepare for all weather conditions because the weather can change very quickly.
How to get there: It is a 2 hour drive to the start of the crossing. Start driving early so you can return in daylight at a reasonable time. Here are the directions beginning from the Rotorua iSite.
Photo: The Emerald Lakes at Tongariro Alpine Crossing.
4. Whakarewarewa circuit
Time: 8 hours
Distance: 34km return
The Redwoods offers some of the most popular Rotorua walks. The Whakarewarewa circuit trail is one of our favourites and it follows forestry roads and exciting tracks. This 8 hour trail passes by the Blue and Green Lakes as well as some other fantastic spots where you can experience beautiful views over Rotorua and it's surroundings. The track has all sorts of different terrain along the way so it makes for a very exciting Rotorua walk.
How to get there: Here are the directions from the Rotorua iSite to the beginning of the Whakarewarewa circuit. While at the Redwood Forest head into the Information Center and collect a map of the track.
Photo: The start of the beautiful Whakarewarewa circuit is located in the Redwoods - home to some of the most popular Rotorua Walks.
5. Rainbow Mountain Summit Track
Time: 3 hours
Distance: 5km return
Rainbow Mountain summit track has amazing 360 degree views out over the Rotorua region. Either at the beginning or end of this Rotorua walk, make a turn onto the Crater Lake track where you will find two amazing emerald coloured lakes which are definitely worth the extra 10 minute walk. While at the summit, take in the views of Mt Tarawera, Lake Tarawera and Lake Rotomahana. On a clear day you might even get a glimpse of the Tongariro National Park volcanic peaks in the distance.
How to get there: Rainbow Mountain is 26km south-east of Rotorua on the Rotorua-Taupo highway. The car park is on the left hand side of the road just after the SH38 turnoff towards Murupara. Here are the directions from Rotorua's iSite to the Rainbow Mountain Summit Track.
Photo: Enjoying the view one of our favourite Rotorua walks - Rainbow Mountain Summit.
There are so many amazing Rotorua Walks nearby you're spoilt for choice. If you're after more information to find Rotorua Walks that suit you check out the DOC walking and hiking in Rotorua guide. If you're after some other ideas of what to do in this hot spot, you can also check out other things to do in Rotorua here.
