Lake Tikitapu, also known as Blue Lake, is one of my favourite places in Rotorua. It is surrounded by native bush and has beautiful blue water. It's the perfect spot for swimming, walking, or a lazy afternoon picnic!

The lake's name comes from Māori history. Tikitapu is a sacred greenstone necklace believed to have been worn by the daughter of a high-ranking chief and lost in the lake. 

There is plenty to do around Tikitapu. If you love walking, there’s a scenic 5.5km track circling the lake, perfect for an easy walk or a morning jog. Rotorua is like Disneyland for mountain bikers, and the Tangaroamihi trail links Tikitapu to the legendary Whakarewarewa Forest trail network if you want to get out and explore! If you'd prefer a more relaxed holiday, there are "beaches" at both ends of the lake, which are ideal for sunbathing, picnicking, or just dipping your toes in.

The area has picnic areas, barbecues, a boat ramp, a playground, and toilets. This is one of the rare places where you can bring your dogs, but they must always be on a lead.

Other things to do in the area

While at Tikitapu, you must go to the lookout between Blue Lake and its neighbour, Lake Rotokakahi (Green Lake). Rotokākahi means "the lake of the shellfish kakahi". Rotokākahi is sacred to Māori, and Motutawa Island in the middle of the lake is the burial ground of many Māori ancestors. Do not, under any circumstances, attempt to swim, fish or boat here, as the lake is privately owned by local iwi (tribes) and is considered tapu or sacred

If you'd like to stay by Tikitapu for a while, I highly recommend booking accommodation at the Blue Lake Top 10 Holiday Park. It's just across the road from the lakeside and has lots of different options, from unpowered camping sites to cosy little cabins.

How to get there

Unfortunately, there is no public transport to Tikitapu, so you will need your own car. The lake is 9 km southeast of Rotorua, and you can get there via Te Ngae Road. Then, take a right turn at the roundabout onto Tarawera Road. There are three free car parks. I recommend parking along Tarawera Road, opposite Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) Campground.