Orakau Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Fall Colors · Lake · Swimming · Views · Wildlife

This is a dual-use trail and mountain bikers are common.

The track undulates, though terrain is 'mostly downhill'. Luckily the track is well maintained and typically clear of obstructions.

The Orakau Trail is a mostly downhill trail starting from Whangamata Road, heading down to the lake edge in Kawakawa Bay. Access to the trail is via the car park on Whangamata Road, 30km from Taupo. You can leave your car here or arrange to be dropped off by a shuttle service.

The trail follows the Orakau Stream and wetlands through beautiful native bush down to the lake edge at Kawakawa Bay which is an ideal spot for lunch and a rest prior to making the return ascent to your car or being picked up by water taxi. Alternatively, run up and over the ridge on the K2K Trail segment to get from from Kawakawa Bay to Kinloch to make for a longer day.