Last updated June 2026
The Orakau Trail is a 9.3-kilometre shared-use trail offering a gradual downhill ride through native wetlands and regenerating bush to the secluded shores of Kawakawa Bay on Lake Taupō. Part of the Great Lake Trails network, it follows the clear Orakau Stream across boardwalks and bridges while passing waterfalls and ravines. Riders and walkers enjoy native birdlife including tūī and bellbirds along the way. The trail ends at a tranquil bay ideal for swimming, with facilities including a shelter and toilet.
Practical Information
| Distance | 9.3 km (point to point, mostly downhill) |
| Time | 1.5 hours cycling | 3 hours walking |
| Grade | Grade 3 — Intermediate (shared use) |
| Start | Orakau carpark, Whangamata Road (20-minute drive from Kinloch) |
| Finish | Kawakawa Bay (shelter, toilet, swimming, campsite) |
| Shuttle | Recommended for point-to-point; boat taxi available from the bay |
| Dogs | Allowed |
| Part of | Great Lake Trails (Kawakawa Section) |
About the Orakau Trail
The Orakau Trail begins at the Orakau carpark on Whangamata Road and descends steadily through lush native wetlands and regenerating bush. It follows the Orakau Stream, crossing boardwalks and bridges while passing small waterfalls and deep ravines cut by the stream. The pumice terrain and young soils reflect the volcanic landscape of the Taupō region.
Native birdlife thrives here, with tūī and bellbirds frequently heard in the upper sections. Seats are positioned at scenic viewpoints along the route. The trail offers excellent flow with berms and corners on the downhill sections, making it rewarding for intermediate riders and walkers alike.
As the trail nears Kawakawa Bay, two bridges span particularly deep ravines, providing dramatic views. The path emerges onto the beach at the bay, where clear lake waters invite a swim on warm days and views extend across Lake Taupō to the mountains of Tongariro National Park.
Kawakawa Bay
Kawakawa Bay features a shelter, long-drop toilet and basic campsite with no cooking facilities. Visitors are advised to bring their own tent and refrain from lighting fires. The bay is popular with boaties and walkers in summer, and the track becomes two-way in places. Rock climbing is sometimes observed in the area.
Access and Shuttles
The trail is best enjoyed as a one-way ride with a shuttle drop at the Orakau carpark and a boat taxi or shuttle pickup from Kawakawa Bay. Out-and-back options are possible but involve a climb on the return. Book shuttles and water taxis in advance, especially during peak summer months. The carpark includes a shelter, map board and toilet.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the gradual downhill flow through beautiful wetlands and bush, noting the trail feels peaceful with good birdlife and scenic ravine views. Many highlight the rewarding swim at the end and recommend combining it with boat transfers for an easy day out.
Riders describe the trail as family-friendly on the lower sections with excellent scenery and well-maintained singletrack. Some note it pairs nicely with nearby trails for longer loops and appreciate the clear signage and facilities at the bay.
Where to Learn More
Love Taupō — Orakau Trail: Official details on trail stats, description, access and nearby options.
New Zealand Cycle Trails — Great Lake Trail: Network overview with section descriptions and maps.
Department of Conservation — Kawakawa Bay Tracks: Track information including links to the Orakau Trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Orakau Trail suitable for beginners?
The trail is rated Grade 3 Intermediate overall. The lower sections near Kawakawa Bay are gentler and more accessible, while the upper sections have more flow and some technical features. Some off-road experience is helpful.
Do I need a shuttle for the Orakau Trail?
Yes, a shuttle or boat taxi is strongly recommended to avoid a long climb on the return. Arrange drop-off at the Orakau carpark and pickup from Kawakawa Bay.
Can I swim at Kawakawa Bay?
Yes, the bay offers clear, calm lake water perfect for swimming in summer. Facilities include a shelter and toilet.
Are dogs allowed on the Orakau Trail?
Yes, dogs are permitted on the trail.
What facilities are at Kawakawa Bay?
There is a shelter, long-drop toilet and basic campsite. No cooking facilities are available.
How far is the Orakau carpark from Kinloch?
The carpark is approximately a 20-minute drive from Kinloch on Whangamata Road.
Can the trail be ridden in both directions?
Yes, though the recommended direction is downhill from the Orakau carpark toward the bay.
Is the trail part of a larger network?
Yes, it forms part of the Kawakawa Section of the Great Lake Trails and connects with the K2K Trail toward Kinloch.
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