Last updated July 2026
Kawakawa Bay is a sheltered bay on the western shore of Lake Taupō, reached by two Department of Conservation tracks that form part of the Great Lake Trail. The K2K track starts from Kinloch Beach and the Orakau Trail begins from a carpark on Whangamata Road; both routes pass through native bush and offer lake views before descending to the bay. At Kawakawa Bay visitors find a DOC shelter, toilets and a safe swimming beach suitable for picnics. The tracks are shared-use paths open to walkers and mountain bikers, providing a full-day outing from Taupō or Kinloch. The bay itself is accessible only on foot or by boat, preserving its remote character.
Practical Information
| K2K Track | 9 km one-way from Kinloch Beach to Kawakawa Bay; 2 hours walking or 1.5 hours mountain bike one-way |
| Orakau Trail | 10 km one-way from Whangamata Road carpark to Kawakawa Bay; 3 hours walking or 1 hour mountain bike one-way |
| Grade | Intermediate; undulating terrain with climbs and descents on both routes |
| K2K Start | Western end of Kinloch Beach, Kinloch (24 km from Taupō) |
| Orakau Start | Whangamata Road carpark, approximately 10 km west of Kinloch |
| At the Bay | DOC shelter, toilet, swimming beach, lakeside picnic area |
| Entry | Free; DOC managed shared-use tracks |
| Network | Great Lake Trail (Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails) |
About Kawakawa Bay Tracks
The K2K and Orakau tracks provide the main land access to Kawakawa Bay on Lake Taupō’s western shore. Both routes are managed by the Department of Conservation and form part of the Great Lake Trail network, which offers multi-day walking and cycling opportunities around the lake.
The tracks traverse a mix of regenerating native bush, wetlands and open sections with lake views. Vegetation includes rewarewa and giant matai on the K2K route, while the Orakau Trail passes through flax wetlands and streamside bush. The area supports a range of native birdlife typical of the central North Island lakeshore environment.
Visitors can complete either track as an out-and-back journey or link the two for a longer loop. The bay offers a tranquil destination with sheltered waters ideal for swimming and picnicking after the walk or ride. Facilities are basic, consistent with the remote setting.
Kinloch, the nearest settlement, lies 24 km from Taupō town centre and serves as the starting point for the K2K track. The tracks are suitable for a full-day excursion, with transport arrangements needed for point-to-point walks or rides.
The K2K Track
The K2K track begins at the western end of Kinloch Beach and climbs from Whangamata Bay before sidling along the top of a broad cliff. Glorious lake views are a feature for much of the route. The path passes through bush dominated by rewarewa with some giant matai trees visible.
After reaching a rocky lookout the track descends into Kawakawa Bay. The 9 km distance makes a satisfying 4-hour return walk or a point-to-point journey when combined with the Orakau Trail. Mountain bikers can complete the one-way trip in about 1.5 hours.
The Orakau Trail
The Orakau Trail starts from the carpark on Whangamata Road and follows the Orakau Stream and associated wetland through regenerating native bush. The route is generally downhill and provides views across Lake Taupō as it descends to the beach at Kawakawa Bay.
At 10 km one-way the trail takes approximately 3 hours to walk or 1 hour to cycle. It offers a quieter bush and wetland experience compared with the more exposed clifftop sections of the K2K track. Walkers and riders can return the same way or continue to Kinloch via the K2K.
At Kawakawa Bay
Kawakawa Bay is a sheltered horseshoe-shaped inlet backed by native bush. The DOC shelter and toilet provide basic facilities, while the beach offers safe swimming in the calm waters. Lakeside picnicking is popular after arriving on foot or by bike.
The bay remains relatively remote because land access is limited to the two tracks. Boat access is also possible, adding to its appeal as a quiet destination on the western shore of Lake Taupō.
Cycling the Tracks
Both the K2K and Orakau tracks are shared-use trails open to mountain bikes. The Great Lake Trail network promotes responsible riding, and users are asked to follow the mountain bikers code of respect for others, rules and the track. The routes suit intermediate riders comfortable with undulating terrain and some climbing.
Cyclists can ride the tracks separately or link them for a longer day. The K2K offers rewarding views from higher points before the descent to the bay, while the Orakau provides a gradual downhill through wetlands.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers and cyclists praise the stunning lake views from the clifftop sections and the peaceful, sheltered beach at the end of the journey. Many appreciate the mix of bush, wetlands and open vistas, noting the tracks feel remote yet accessible for a full-day adventure.
Visitors often highlight the rewarding descent into Kawakawa Bay after the climb and the basic but welcome DOC facilities. Riders mention the flowing singletrack and the opportunity to combine both trails for a longer loop with transport arranged at one end.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation – Kawakawa Bay tracks: official track descriptions, distances, times and access details.
Great Lake Trail | Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails: network overview and trail information for the wider Great Lake Trail.
Love Taupō – Kawakawa section: additional visitor information on the K2K and Orakau routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Kawakawa Bay?
Walk or cycle the K2K track from Kinloch Beach (9 km, 2 hours walking) or the Orakau Trail from Whangamata Road carpark (10 km, 3 hours walking). The bay is also reachable by boat.
Is Kawakawa Bay suitable for swimming?
Yes, the sheltered bay has a safe swimming beach with opportunities for lakeside picnics. A DOC shelter and toilet are available at the bay.
Can I cycle the tracks?
Yes, both the K2K and Orakau tracks are shared-use trails suitable for mountain bikes as part of the Great Lake Trail network.
How far is Kinloch from Taupō?
Kinloch is approximately 24 km from Taupō town centre, about a 25-minute drive.
Are there facilities at Kawakawa Bay?
DOC provides a shelter and toilet. There are no food outlets or accommodation; visitors should bring everything they need.
Can I link the two tracks?
Yes, the K2K and Orakau trails can be combined for a longer day out, returning via the same route or arranging transport at one end.
Are dogs allowed on the tracks?
DOC does not list specific dog restrictions for these tracks; check current conditions on the official DOC page before visiting.
What is the best time to visit?
The tracks are open year-round, though conditions can vary with weather. Spring and autumn often provide pleasant walking and riding temperatures.
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