Okataina Scenic Reserve
Explore the stunning New Zealand bush on challenging hiking and biking trails, with abundant birdlife and scenic lake views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, less mud
Okataina Scenic Reserve
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, less mud
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the stunning New Zealand bush on challenging hiking and biking trails, with abundant birdlife and scenic lake views.
"Amazing trail for walking or mountain biking, offering beautiful NZ bush and rewarding views."
Carry Water & Snacks
No toilets or fresh water on the track. Bring enough for your entire trip! :water_wave:
Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can get muddy and sodden, especially in winter. Good grip is key! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Okataina Saddle Hike
Okataina Scenic Reserve
Challenging hike with rewarding views, leading to Lake Okataina.
Scenic Cycling Trails
Okataina Scenic Reserve
Enjoy wide, undulating trails perfect for mountain biking and electric bikes.
Abundant Birdlife
Okataina Scenic Reserve
Immerse yourself in the sounds and sights of native New Zealand birds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Preparation
Access & Trail Length
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hikes near Rotorua
Carry Water & Snacks
No toilets or fresh water on the track. Bring enough for your entire trip! :water_wave:
Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can get muddy and sodden, especially in winter. Good grip is key! :athletic_shoe:
Check Hunting Season
Reserve closed for hunting Nov 30 - Feb. Safer for visitors during this time. :hunting_gear:
Beware of Motorbikes
Some users report motorbikes 'hooning' through. Stay alert. :motorcycle:
Tips
from all over the internet
Carry Water & Snacks
No toilets or fresh water on the track. Bring enough for your entire trip! :water_wave:
Sturdy Footwear Essential
Trails can get muddy and sodden, especially in winter. Good grip is key! :athletic_shoe:
Check Hunting Season
Reserve closed for hunting Nov 30 - Feb. Safer for visitors during this time. :hunting_gear:
Beware of Motorbikes
Some users report motorbikes 'hooning' through. Stay alert. :motorcycle:
Report Wallaby Sightings
Wallabies are pests. Report sightings to DOC to help conservation efforts. :rabbit2:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Okataina Scenic Reserve for its beautiful New Zealand bush, challenging trails suitable for hiking and biking, and abundant birdlife. The scenic views and the opportunity for a more off-the-beaten-path experience are frequently highlighted. However, the lack of facilities like toilets and water sources, along with potentially muddy conditions and occasional motorbike activity, are noted drawbacks.
"Amazing trail to walk or mountain bike. It's roughly 18km point to point and can be done as a return hike in a day, starting at either end.
There is parking at both ends of the trail. No toilets along the track or fresh water sources (so you have to carry what you need for a round trip or just hike one way).
Beautiful trail 👣"
Elly Pickering
"I love getting out into beautiful NZ bush and even though this is a very tough climb on the mountainbike, it's a very enjoyable downhill back down.
I was told that the gorse and blackberry can be hard to negotiate at times, but when we went, all the overhanging nastiness had been trimmed back for an adventure race through here, which was pretty good timing for us.
We spotted a wallaby in the park, which are deemed as pests, so reported it to DOC, who encourage reporting sightings."
Dave Pearson
"Two of us in our late 50's cycled a total of 12kms of the track which is wide enough, with ups and downs. Got off Electric bikes a couple of times but not for long! In Winter it would be muddy and a bit slippery I would think. But we enjoyed our cycle in March 2019!"
Valerie Morgan (Val)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Okataina Scenic Reserve is accessible by car, with parking available at both ends of the main trail. It's located near Rotorua, making it a popular choice for day trips and hikes in the region.
Public transport options are limited for direct access to Okataina Scenic Reserve. It is best accessed by private vehicle or as part of a guided tour from Rotorua.
The reserve has multiple access points, with parking available at both ends of the 18km point-to-point trail. One end leads towards Okataina Camp, and the other offers access to the saddle hike.
Okataina Scenic Reserve is a short drive from Rotorua, typically around 30-40 minutes, making it an excellent option for a half-day or full-day excursion.
While there are roads providing access to trailheads, the core of the reserve is best explored on foot or by bike. The main trail is not a drive-through road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Okataina Scenic Reserve is generally free. However, it's always a good idea to check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website for any potential permit requirements or fees, especially if you plan on activities like hunting.
Okataina Scenic Reserve is typically open year-round, 24 hours a day, as it's a natural reserve. However, specific areas might have temporary closures, particularly during hunting seasons.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for general access to Okataina Scenic Reserve. It's a public reserve, and you can visit at your leisure.
The main restriction is related to hunting seasons. The reserve is closed for hunting from November 30th to February, ensuring visitor safety during those months.
While there are mentions of an 'okataina camp' in reviews, it's best to confirm camping availability and regulations with the Department of Conservation (DOC) as facilities and rules can change.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The reserve offers a challenging 18km point-to-point trail, ideal for a day hike or bike ride. A popular option is the hike over the saddle to Lake Okataina, offering great views.
Yes, Okataina Scenic Reserve is highly recommended for mountain biking. The trails are wide enough for cycling, with a mix of ups and downs, and a rewarding downhill section. Electric bikes are also a good option.
Expect a mix of well-maintained tracks and potentially muddy, slippery sections, especially in winter. Some areas might have overhanging vegetation, though this is sometimes cleared for events.
No, there are no toilets or fresh water sources along the main tracks. Visitors must carry all necessary water and supplies for their entire trip.
The reserve is known for its awesome birdlife, with many native species to see and hear. Wallabies are also present, and visitors are encouraged to report sightings to DOC.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants located directly within Okataina Scenic Reserve. Visitors should plan to bring their own food and drinks for their visit.
The nearest dining options will be back in Rotorua or in smaller towns along the route. It's advisable to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the natural beauty of the reserve.
Yes, picnicking is a great way to enjoy the reserve. There are no designated picnic areas, but you can find scenic spots along the trails to stop and eat. Remember to pack out all your rubbish.
No, there are no potable water sources available within the reserve. You must carry all the water you need for drinking and cooking.
High-energy, non-perishable snacks and a packed lunch are ideal. Think sandwiches, trail mix, fruit, and plenty of water.
📸 📸 Photography
The best views are often from the higher points of the trails, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape and lakes. The lush New Zealand bush also provides excellent opportunities for nature photography.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide landscapes and closer details. A wide-angle lens is perfect for sweeping views, and a telephoto can be useful for wildlife.
Yes, the reserve is home to abundant birdlife. A telephoto lens can help you capture clear shots of birds in their natural habitat. Be patient and quiet to get the best results.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
The high points along the trails, especially those offering views towards Lake Okataina, are prime photography locations. The varied terrain also provides interesting foreground elements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Crucially, families must pack ample water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trails. Sturdy shoes are a must, as the terrain can be uneven and muddy. Keep an eye out for the abundant birdlife, which can be a fascinating educational experience for children. Be aware of hunting seasons and potential motorbike activity to ensure a safe outing.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Mountain Bikers
Be prepared for varied trail conditions; while some sections are well-maintained, others can become muddy and slippery, especially after rain or in winter. It's advisable to have a bike suitable for off-road conditions and to wear appropriate protective gear. Remember to carry all your water and snacks, as there are no services along the route.
🚶♀️ Hikers Seeking Solitude
The hike over the saddle to Lake Okataina is particularly noted for its potential to offer a more secluded experience. Remember to be self-sufficient with water and food, and wear appropriate footwear for the varied terrain. Checking for hunting season closures is also key to ensuring a peaceful and safe hike.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails: Hiking & Biking
When planning your trek, be aware that the conditions can vary significantly. While some parts are well-maintained, others can become muddy and slippery, particularly during the wetter winter months. Reviews suggest that overhanging vegetation, like gorse and blackberry, can sometimes make passage difficult, though this is often managed for events. Sturdy footwear with good grip is therefore essential for all visitors.
For those seeking a challenge, the hike over the saddle to Lake Okataina is highly recommended, promising rewarding views. Remember that facilities are minimal; there are no toilets or fresh water sources along the track, so come prepared with all your provisions.
Wildlife Encounters and Conservation
Beyond the birds, the reserve is also home to wallabies, which are considered pests in New Zealand. The Department of Conservation (DOC) actively encourages the public to report any wallaby sightings they make within the reserve. This information is crucial for their ongoing conservation efforts and management programs.
It's also important to be mindful of other activities that take place in the reserve. Hunting is permitted during specific seasons, and the area will be closed to the public during these times (typically from November 30th to February) for safety reasons. Always check the latest DOC advisories before your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit