The Tarawera Trail is a 15km hike that is quickly becoming one of the most famous tracks in Rotorua, New Zealand.
The trail is known for its native tracks, isolated beaches, and natural hot pools. The walk is gaining a reputation for being one of the most beautiful day walks in New Zealand, with stunning views of Lake Rotomahana, as well as the many dips and valleys of the lands surrounding Lake Tarawera. The trail is also known for its magical conclusion of a relaxing geothermal soak at Hot Water Beach at the end.
The trail is a return of the people to their land and the birthplace of tourism in New Zealand, as it was once devastated by the 1886 Tarawera eruption. Dogs, horses, vehicles (including bicycles and motorbikes), fires, removal of plants or animals, and hunting are not permitted along the trail. It is important to not overestimate your capability and consider booking a campsite or a water taxi rather than attempt to walk the trail in both directions in one day if you are not an experienced walker. A water taxi is available to ferry passengers from the end of the track at Hot Water Beach to the Te Wairoa carpark. If walking the track in reverse, the water taxi can also transfer and ferry walkers from Te Wairoa carpark to Hot Water Beach. Pre-booking the water taxi in either direction is essential. The track suffers from occasional localized rock falls, especially after heavy rainfall, so it is important not to stop on the track between the signposts indicating this hazard. It is also important to bring your own water.
The Tarawera Trail is highly enjoyable and is known for its beautiful views of the lake and Mt Tarawera, fringed by NZ ponga ferns. The first half of the trail is especially beautiful, with lots of views of the lake and Mt Tarawera. The trail is graded as difficult and takes most people between 4 to 5 hours to walk. There is signage along the trail that outlines the distance and walking time between each landmark. The Tarawera Trail is also home to the Tarawera Ultramarathon, an iconic trail running event held in Rotorua, New Zealand. The event features four different courses, including a 21km, 50km, 102km, and 100 Miler course. The courses take in the most stunning scenery imaginable, featuring eight different lakes, waterfalls, and the lushest native New Zealand forests. The Tarawera Ultramarathon by UTMB is part of the UTMB World Series, attracting some of the world’s best elite trail runners. The TUM102 and the TUMMiler are both qualification races for the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run, with the TUM102 carrying a golden ticket entry. All distances carry the opportunity to earn Running Stones towards qualifying for UTMB Mont Blanc.
Overall, the Tarawera Trail is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Rotorua, New Zealand. With its stunning views, natural hot pools, and rich history, it is a unique and unforgettable experience for hikers and runners alike.