The first lake you'll pass on the track is Dry Lake. Flat, grassed areas above the lake are perfect for family picnics.
The track continues past Dry Lake to Lake Rotokura. This lake is surrounded by ancient beech forest and on clear days Mount Ruapehu is reflected in the lake’s calm waters.
12 km from Ohakune en route to Waiouru, turn off SH 49 onto Karioi Station Road. Drive 1 km to the Rotokura car park.
No drones
Unauthorised use of drones is prohibited. You must have a permit to fly a drone.
DOC does not generally approve permits to fly drones in this national park and we do not recommend you apply for one.
Native birds such as tūī, kākā, bellbird, fantail and North Island robin are commonly seen or heard along the track to the lake.
Rotokura is tapu (sacred healing waters) to Ngāti Rangi, the local Māori people or tangata whenua. Please respect this by not eating at or near Rotokura. Fishing is also prohibited.
| Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +64 7 892 3729 |
| tongarirovc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | Whakapapa Village State Highway 48 Mount Ruapehu 3951 |
| Hours | Visitor centre hours and services |