Tarawera Falls to Lake Tarawera
A One‑Day Out‑and‑Back Adventure
Trail Overview and Planning
Some walks are memorable from the first step and Tarawera Falls to Lake Tarawera is one of those journeys.
This walk through the Lake Tarawera Scenic Reserve delivers cascading waterfalls, lush native bush, crystal‑clear river views and a sense of wilderness that feels personal and unspoilt.
It’s a perfect one‑day out‑and‑back hike for those with good fitness, planning and sense of adventure.
Setting Off: Morning at the Trailhead
Our day started early with essential snacks packed and the road into the reserve stretching ahead.
The access route into the Tarawera Falls car park winds through forestry land near Kawerau and you’ll need a forest access permit for your vehicle as the road crosses private forestry land. Permits are available from the Kawerau i‑SITE Visitor Information Centre.
We parked with excitement at the trailhead, laced up our boots, shouldered our day packs and set off along the Tarawera River.
Pausing to take in the spectacular colours of the Tarawera River
Tarawera Falls: First Reward on the Track
From the car park the official Tarawera Falls track heads upstream alongside the Tarawera River. It’s an easy, well‑defined path through towering forest and native bush with kōwhai, rātā and pōhutukawa forming a rich green canopy. After crossing a small footbridge, you keep following the river’s voice through the trees.
In about 20 minutes you arrive at the Tarawera Falls lookout and what a sight it is. Water thunders through narrow fissures in a sheer rock face, an amphitheatre shaped by volcanic flows from Mount Tarawera’s eruptions millennia ago.
Here we paused, took photos, and soaked up the view from a seat beside interpretive panels that share the area’s geological and cultural history.
Dense native forest surrounding Tarawera Falls
Beyond the Falls: Walking Through Native Forest
Refreshed from the falls stop, we continued past the viewing area onto the Tarawera Outlet Track, a true forest wander that follows the river for a couple of hours toward Lake Tarawera.
The trail character changed from easy footpath to more classic tramping terrain: tree roots, river rocks and gently rising sections that keep you attentive but comfortable.
The river itself was a star companion, sometimes rippling gently, sometimes cascading over small rocky steps, always clear and inviting. This is the kind of track where you find yourself slowing down not because it’s hard, but because this scene deserves time to be noticed.
The calm waters of Lake Tarawera reflecting the moody clouds
Lake Tarawera: Lunch and Lakeside Reflections
After about two to two‑and‑a‑half hours from the falls (depending on your pace), we reached Lake Tarawera.
The first glimpse of the lake opened up the forest canopy, revealing water that reflected the moodiness of the cloud. We claimed a soft patch of grass just above the shore, spread out lunch, and watched gentle waves lap the pebbles while wind played with lake reflections.
This was the heart of the day and the reward for the effort were open skies, water to drink and touch and the satisfaction of standing at the edge of a volcanic lake shaped by fire and time.
Tarawera River with overhanging native forest
Return Journey: Quiet Moments on the Trail
After sinking our toes in the lake and topping up on snacks, we turned back the way we came. There’s something meditative and grounding about return hikes: familiar sights feel richer, the light through the trees softer, and even the river seems to smile at you again.
We kept a steady pace, taking shorter breaks, trading storytelling and quieter moments with nature. Back beyond Tarawera Falls, the river’s rumble accompanied us, a steady soundtrack back toward the trailhead.
Mini cascades along Tarawera River
Tips for a Smooth and Rewarding Hike
Permits and access
Forest access permits are required for the road to the Tarawera Falls car park and access is typically restricted to weekends and public holidays.
Track conditions
The initial falls track is short and easy, but the route beyond toward Lake Tarawera is longer and more rugged, good walking shoes and plenty of water are essential.
Weather and season
Early starts avoid afternoon clouds or stronger winds at the lake. Summer and spring offer lush vegetation and vibrant river flow.
Respect the environment
Leave no trace, take only photos and memories and enjoy the serenity that comes when we tread lightly.
Cascading falls along Tarawera River
Final Thoughts
The Tarawera Falls to Lake Tarawera day hike is one of those journeys where everything goes right. From easy riverbank paths to spectacular waterfalls and the open expanse of a volcanic lake, it’s a storybook walk that rewards curiosity, rhythm and simply showing up.
If nature had a “must‑see” checklist for a perfect New Zealand day out, this one would tick all the boxes.
Share Your Experience
If you’ve walked this track, I’d love to know what stayed with you; a stretch of river, the sound of the falls or the moment the lake first came into view. And if it’s still on your list, feel free to share what draws you here. These stories are richer when they’re shared, so leave a note in the comments and add your voice to the journey.
The Tama Lakes Track in Tongariro National Park is a spectacular alpine day hike, offering panoramic views of Lower and Upper Tama Lakes, Tama Saddle, and the surrounding volcanic peaks.
Though less crowded than the famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, this out-and-back trail still demands preparation and the right gear.
From sturdy footwear and layered clothing to water, sun protection, and navigation tools, having the essentials can make the difference between a comfortable hike and an exhausting adventure.
In this guide, we break down everything you need for a safe and enjoyable hike, including a complete packing checklist you can download and take with you.
Whether you’re planning a summer trek or tackling the trail in cooler months, our tips will help you stay prepared, enjoy the scenery, and make the most of your Tama Lakes adventure.