Discover the Serenity of Lake Rotopounamu Track
Explore the enchanting Lake Rotopounamu Track in Tongariro National Park, a hiker's paradise filled with stunning scenery and rich biodiversity.
Nestled within the stunning Tongariro National Park, the Lake Rotopounamu Track offers tourists a breathtaking escape into nature with its lush forests and tranquil waters. Perfect for hikers of all skill levels, this picturesque trail is renowned for its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife, making it an idyllic destination for a day of adventure and relaxation.
A brief summary to Lake Rotopounamu track
- Te Ponanga Saddle Rd, Waikato, 3382, NZ
- +6478923729
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to enjoy a quieter trail and catch the sunrise over the lake.
- Don't forget your camera; the views are breathtaking and perfect for capturing memories.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as some areas can be steep or uneven.
- Keep an eye out for the native wildlife, including various bird species that thrive in the area.
- Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the trail.
Getting There
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Car
From Palmerston North, take State Highway 3 southbound. Continue on SH3 until you reach the junction with State Highway 1. Take the exit towards Wellington and merge onto SH1. Follow SH1 until you reach the Taupo exit. Merge onto State Highway 5 towards Taupo. As you approach Taupo, follow the signs for State Highway 1 towards Napier. Continue for about 15 km until you reach the turnoff for Te Ponanga Saddle Road. Turn left onto Te Ponanga Saddle Road and follow the road for about 5 km to reach the Lake Rotopounamu track car park. Please note that there may be parking fees depending on the facilities provided.
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Public Transportation
From Palmerston North, take a bus to Taupo (you can check local bus services like InterCity or Naked Bus). The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Once you arrive in Taupo, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to the Lake Rotopounamu track. This is about a 20-minute drive (approximately 22 km) from the Taupo bus terminal to the track entrance. Be sure to check for taxi availability in advance. The taxi fare could be around NZD 50–70.
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Local Shuttle Service
If you are in Taupo, there are local shuttle services that offer rides to popular hiking destinations, including Lake Rotopounamu. Contact local tourism offices or search online for shuttle services that operate in the area. Prices vary by service but typically range from NZD 30–60 per person for a round trip. Make sure to book in advance to secure your spot.
Discover more about Lake Rotopounamu track
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Tongariro River
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Tongariro Lodge
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Tongariro Adventures
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Mangatepopo Hut
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Tongariro National Trout Centre
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Tongariro Crossing Car Park
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Te Porere Redoubt
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Blue Lake
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Mt Tongariro
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Soda Springs
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Okupata Caves
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Essential places to dine
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Valentino's Italian Restaurant
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The Terrace Restaurant & Bar
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Mavericks Gastro Pub
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Ploughmans Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Dspize Clothing Limted
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Hospice Shop Turangi
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New World Turangi
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