Tarawera Outlet to Humphries Bay
Track category
Tramping track
Time:
3 hr one way
Distance:
6 km
Description
Views of Lake Tarawera can be seen
from the track
The track begins at the Tarawera Outlet swingbridge. Cross the bridge and take the left hand track at the junction. The track passes a jetty a short distance from the Outlet and progresses westward.
Views of the lake become less frequent as the track climbs inland. The track descends into Humphries Bay - a pleasant picnic and overnight camping area. Trampers can then take the Eastern Okataina Walkway northwards to access Otangimoana Bay on Lake Okataina (approximately 20 minutes one way) or onwards to complete the Walkway at the Okataina carpark (Tauranganui Bay - a further 2 hours 40 minutes walk).
Facilities: Camping facilities and toilets are provided at Tarawera Outlet and Humphries Bay. Camping is permitted at Tarawera Outlet and Humphries Bay.
Getting there
Access to Tarawera Outlet is from Kawerau township (off SH 30 between Rotorua and Whakatane) via private forestry roads which require permits. A map & directions are avaliable at the Kawerau Information Centre. The forest gate is closed during the hours of darkness. The forest road may be closed in summer when fire risk is high.
Access permits
Permits cost $5 and must be collected on the day of entering the forest roads from:
Kawerau Information Centre
Plunket St, Kawerau
+64 7 323 6300
Email: kawerauinfo@xtra.co.nz
Open daily 9am - 4pm (8am - 6pm from December 15th to January 29th)
Also available on the Kawarau Online website.
Lake Tarawera transport options
There are a number of concessionaires that run either boat or helicopter transport around the Rotorua Lakes area, creating a variety of options for connecting trails or getting to/from campsites. View guides and tourism providers for Lake Tarawera.
Places to stay
Humphries Bay Campsite is a small, informal camping area at the northern arm of Lake Tarawera. The campsite is accessible on foot or by boat, and camping is restricted to visitors arriving on foot or by kayak only. Visitors are asked to limit their stay to one night. Toilet facilities are provided.
Plan and prepare
You need to be well prepared when tramping on conservation land, especially on longer day walks. Ensure you have warm clothes, strong, comfortable boots, a good raincoat, first aid kit, food and drink, a hat and sunscreen. It is also advisable to leave your tramping intentions with a responsible person, in case you get lost.
back to top
Guides and commercial tourism providers