Isthmus Track
Short walk
Time:
20 min one way
Distance:
1.2 km
Getting there
26 km south-east of Rotorua. Most visitors access Lake Rotomahana through Waimangu Volcanic Valley (Waimangu Rd, off SH 5). Visitors boating on Lake Tarawera often tie up at Rāpatu Bay and walk to Lake Rotomahana over the Isthmus track.
About the area
At Lake Tarawera Scenic Reserve you can visit Tarawera Landing, The Orchard, Humphries Bay and Hot Water Beach.
Geothermal activity, Lake Rotomahana
Lake Rotomahana was internationally famous for its spectacular Pink and White Terraces which were destroyed in the Mount Tarawera eruption of 1886. Steaming cliffs and silica terraces still remain as a feature of this lake. The lake and surrounding margins are a wildlife refuge protecting many species of water fowl. The lake is closed to powerboats in May for the birds' breeding season. Many rare ferns and orchids are found within the thermal areas.
Description
The track links Lakes Tarawera and Rotomahana and is an integral part of Waimangu 'Round Trip'. Take the launch across Lake Rotomahana and walk across the Isthmus to Lake Tarawera where another launch delivers you to Tarawera Landing. Contact Waimangu Volcanic Valley, phone +64 7 366 6137.
Places to stay
This is a standard campsite in the Rotorua Lakes area.
Plan and prepare
When bathing in geothermal water do not immerse your head, due to risk of contracting the fatal disease Amoebic Meningitis. This disease is caused by water containing the amoeba entering through nasal passages.
You need to be well prepared when walking on conservation land. Ensure you have strong comfortable boots, warm clothing, a good raincoat, first aid kit, plenty of food and water, a hat and sunscreen. It is also advisable you leave your tramping intensions with a responsible person, in case you get lost.
What to expect on a short walk:
- Easy walking for up to an hour
- Track is well formed, with an even surface. There may be steps or slopes
- Suitable for people of most abilities and fitness
- Stream and rivers crossings are bridged
- Walking shoes required
back to top