Rotorua Lakes

Sometimes described as the Lakes District of the North Island, the Rotorua region has an abundance of picturesque waterways, including 16 lakes of varying sizes. Of these, 15 boast excellent fishing, mainly trout of three varieties, rainbow, brown and brook.
The numerous lakes in the district were all caused by the volcanic nature of the Central Plateau. They range from magnificent Lake Rotorua, formed in a volcanic depression or 'caldera', to Lake Rotokawau, a small crater lake. The most magnificent example of bodies of water being volcanically sculptured is Lake Taupo, the largest lake in the North Island, the second deepest in New Zealand, and the enduringly beautiful leftover of a large scale eruption.
Activities are plentiful, as is the fishing! Most of the lakes in the area are great spots for picnics and swimming. From pleasurable cruises aboard vessels ranging from the spectacular Lakeland Queen to the fun WWII amphibious vehicle that looks like a yellow rubber ducky, the lakes of Rotorua offer visitors diverse and enjoyable activities.

The Lakes

Lake Rotorua
Lake Rotoiti, Rotoehu & Rotoma
Lake Okataina
Lake Tarawera
The Blue and Green Lakes (Lake Rotokakahi and Lake Tikitapu)
Lake Rotomahana
Lake Rerewhakaaitu