Lake Rotorangi walk explores the lake, the swamp and bush offering different landscapes in a short walk. The track can be muddy in winter. Lake Rotorangi is a lake created by the need for electricity. The track crosses the Patea Dam. This was built between 1979 and 1984 to supply electricity to the Taranaki area forming the longest lake in New Zealand. The lake has two public boat ramps, toilets and picnic facilities.
The walk is easy with a gradual incline through native nikau and tawa forest to sweeping views over part of Lake Rotorangi. There are seats in strategic positions giving visitors an excuse to chill down and soak up the quiet of nature. From here, the track passes through a grove of tawhairauriki/black beech trees. The return loop follows the lake edge to the dam.
New Zealand’s longest man made lake, two public boat ramps with access for water skiers and wake boarders. Lake Rotorangi is located off 24kms east of Eltham on the Rawhitiroa Road to Glen Nui Road. There are public toilets, picnic and camping areas available.
Length: 1.5 km
