Scenic Drive Along Lake Rotoiti
State Highway 30 offers a picturesque drive along the edge of Lake Rotoiti, stretching for about 9 km between Hauparu and Hinehopu. This route is dotted with small hamlets, primarily consisting of holiday homes, and several viewpoints that provide stunning vistas of the lake.
Exploring Korokitewao Bay
Upon reaching Hinehopu, you can leave the main road to explore Korokitewao Bay. This area features a charming beach, which varies in size depending on the lake's water level, and a playground. At the northern end of the beach, a short bush walk leads to the striking Te Papatu Point, offering a short walk into native shrubbery.
Activities and Attractions
The lakeside area is ideal for swimming, relaxing, or enjoying a picnic while touring the region. Additionally, visitors can access the historic Hinehopu / Hongis Track from here. This track is a scenic native forest walk that leads to Lake Rotoehu, providing a glimpse into the area's natural beauty.
How to Get There
To reach this scenic drive, take State Highway 30, which runs along Lake Rotoiti between Hauparu and Hinehopu. Once at Hinehopu, you can continue around the lake into Korokitewao Bay.
Nearby, you can also visit Lake Rotoehu via the Hinehopu/Hongi’s Track for further exploration and Lake Okataina with its superb short loop walking tracks, including the Ngahopua Track.
