Lake Tikitapu Blue Lake
A stunning volcanic crater lake famous for its brilliant blue waters, surrounded by parkland with walking trails and picnic spots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for swimming & picnics
Lake Tikitapu Blue Lake
Best Time
Perfect for swimming & picnics
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning volcanic crater lake famous for its brilliant blue waters, surrounded by parkland with walking trails and picnic spots.
"The brilliant blue lake is mesmerizing, even on a rainy day."
🚗 Easy Drive from Rotorua
A quick 15-minute drive from Rotorua makes this a convenient stop for sightseeing. :car:
🦆 Friendly Locals
The mallard ducks are quite friendly and often pose for photos! :duck:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mesmerizing Blue
Lake Tikitapu
Experience the brilliant, almost surreal blue waters surrounded by lush green forests and mountains.
Lakeside Stroll
Walking Trail
An easy, scenic loop walk perfect for all ages, offering serene views and friendly local ducks.
Green Lake Lookout
Lookout Point
Catch a glimpse of the adjacent, restricted Green Lake from a designated viewpoint.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Blue
Park & Play
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lakes) - Rotorua New Zealand
🚗 Easy Drive from Rotorua
A quick 15-minute drive from Rotorua makes this a convenient stop for sightseeing. :car:
🦆 Friendly Locals
The mallard ducks are quite friendly and often pose for photos! :duck:
Rotorua - what are some cool things to do there that don't break the bank?
🧺 Picnic Ready
BBQ facilities are available, but bring backup food as gas can run out. :knifeforkplate:
🚶♀️ Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on the walking trails. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Drive from Rotorua
A quick 15-minute drive from Rotorua makes this a convenient stop for sightseeing. :car:
🦆 Friendly Locals
The mallard ducks are quite friendly and often pose for photos! :duck:
🧺 Picnic Ready
BBQ facilities are available, but bring backup food as gas can run out. :knifeforkplate:
🚶♀️ Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on the walking trails. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lake Tikitapu for its stunning, vibrant blue waters and the serene beauty of its parkland setting. The easy walking trail and family-friendly amenities like the playground and BBQ facilities are frequently highlighted as positives. While the lake itself is a major draw, some note that the Green Lake is inaccessible, and BBQ gas can sometimes be an issue.
"A beautiful lake with basic amenities like toilet, playground, walking trail etc. It was raining when we visited the Blue lake which is actually known as Lake Tikitapu. The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountains & green forest.
There is a Green lake as well, but is not open to public. You can view the lake from the lookout point though."
Bindya Balakrishnan
"Nice easy walk, good to take dogs on. We were lucky with the sunny day, would be so nice to swim in if it was a bit warmer"
Isabella Pitt
"Lake Tikitapu also known as the Blue lake is a beautiful lake in Rotorua. Visited the lake during the rains, and the views of the lake and the mountains around with the forest covered in misty rain was very mesmerizing. Lots of malllard ducks around - pretty friendly ducks - poses for the pictures..
Enough parking space, there is also a trail around the lake, a ark nearby and short forest walks. A must visit place in Rotorua."
Sajeev Thomas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Tikitapu is a scenic 15-minute drive from Rotorua. Simply head south on State Highway 5 and follow the signs for the Blue and Green Lakes. Ample parking is available at the lake.
Public transport options to Lake Tikitapu are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to access the lake. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a car.
The most direct route from Rotorua is via State Highway 5. The drive itself is pleasant, passing through scenic landscapes.
Yes, cycling is a great option for reaching Lake Tikitapu, especially if you enjoy scenic rides. There are dedicated paths and roads suitable for cycling.
Yes, there is ample parking available at Lake Tikitapu, making it easy for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Lake Tikitapu Blue Lake and its surrounding parkland is free. You can enjoy the natural beauty and amenities without any admission cost.
Lake Tikitapu is accessible year-round, with no specific opening or closing hours. It's an outdoor public space.
No booking is required for general visits to Lake Tikitapu. However, if you plan to stay at nearby accommodation, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
While the lake is generally open, the adjacent Green Lake is not open to the public for swimming or access. Always respect signage and designated areas.
Yes, swimming is permitted in Lake Tikitapu. However, always be mindful of water conditions and safety. It's a popular spot for a dip on warmer days.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, canoeing, trout fishing, walking the scenic trail around the lake, picnicking, and using the playground. It's a versatile spot for relaxation and recreation.
Yes, Lake Tikitapu has basic amenities including toilets and BBQ facilities. Some visitors note that BBQ gas can run out, so it's wise to bring your own or a backup food plan.
The walking trail around Lake Tikitapu is described as nice and easy, making it suitable for families and casual walkers. It offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding forest.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Lake Tikitapu, provided they are kept on a leash. It's a great spot for a walk with your furry friend.
The Green Lake is adjacent to Lake Tikitapu but is not open to the public. You can view it from a designated lookout point, offering a different, striking color contrast.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire lake offers stunning photo opportunities, especially the brilliant blue water against the green forest. The walking trail provides various vantage points. Don't forget to capture the friendly ducks!
Both sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting for photography at Lake Tikitapu, casting a warm glow on the water and surrounding landscape.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and any specific restrictions for the park area before flying a drone.
Using a polarizing filter can enhance the blue hues of the water and sky. Shooting on a sunny day will also bring out the lake's vibrant color.
Yes, the mallard ducks are quite photogenic and often approach visitors, making for some fun wildlife shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
🎣 Anglers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Blue and Green Lakes
Adjacent to Lake Tikitapu is the Green Lake, which is not accessible to the public. While you can't swim or walk around it, a designated lookout point allows you to appreciate its distinct, emerald hue. The contrast between the two lakes, visible from certain vantage points, is a fascinating natural phenomenon and a popular subject for photos. The area's natural beauty is consistently praised in reviews, with many highlighting the mesmerizing quality of the blue water, even on rainy days.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities around Lake Tikitapu, including swimming, canoeing, and trout fishing. The parkland provides ample space for picnics, with BBQ facilities available. The easy walking trail encircling the lake is a major draw, offering continuous scenic views and a pleasant way to experience the environment. This accessible trail makes it a great spot for families and casual walkers alike.
Activities and Amenities for Everyone
The parkland surrounding the lake is well-equipped for visitors. You'll find essential amenities like toilets and a playground, making it ideal for families. BBQ facilities are also on-site, perfect for a leisurely picnic. However, a practical tip from travelers is to bring your own gas for the BBQs, as they are frequently used and can sometimes run out.
The walking trail around Lake Tikitapu is a highlight for many. It's an easy, relatively short loop that provides constant, beautiful vistas of the lake and the surrounding native forest. This trail is also dog-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their leashed pets along for the walk. The combination of natural beauty and accessible amenities makes Lake Tikitapu a well-rounded destination for a day out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit