Last updated June 2026
The Kawakawa Section forms the central 19.5km portion of the Great Lake Trail network on the western shore of Lake Taupō. It comprises three linked trails — the K2K, Orakau and Otaketake — offering intermediate-grade riding and walking through wetlands, native bush, and lakeside scenery between Kinloch and Kawakawa Bay. The section connects eastward to the W2K trail and westward via boat to the Waihaha section, making it a key link for multi-day adventures on the full Great Lake Trails. Riders and walkers enjoy flowing singletrack, viewpoints, and a popular swimming spot at Kawakawa Bay.
Practical Information
| Total distance | 19.5km (Kawakawa Section) |
| Grade | Grade 3 — Intermediate |
| Time | 2.5–3.5 hours one way |
| Access | Orakau car park off Whangamata Road (20 minutes from Kinloch); Kinloch for K2K and Otaketake starts |
| Trails included | K2K Trail, Orakau Trail, Otaketake Trail |
| Part of | Great Lake Trails (Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails) |
| Dogs | Permitted on leads |
| Facilities | Shelter, toilets and campsite at Kawakawa Bay |
About the Kawakawa Section
The Kawakawa Section winds through regenerating native forest, wetlands and ravines on the western shore of Lake Taupō. It provides ever-changing views across the lake toward the Tongariro National Park volcanoes and offers a mix of gentle descents, boardwalks and short climbs suitable for intermediate cyclists and walkers.
Kawakawa Bay serves as the scenic midpoint with clear water for swimming, a shelter and basic camping facilities. The trails are shared-use and free-draining pumice surfaces allow year-round riding, though weather can change quickly in the area.
The section forms part of the broader Great Lake Trails network, which totals around 90km and is designed for multi-day exploration with shuttle and boat support options available from Kinloch.
The Three Trails
The K2K Trail runs approximately 8.4km from Kinloch to Kawakawa Bay, featuring a climb to the Te Kauwae headland with panoramic lake views followed by a flowing descent. It takes about 1.5 hours by bike one way.
The Orakau Trail covers roughly 10km from the Orakau car park on Whangamata Road down to Kawakawa Bay through native bush, wetlands and alongside the Orakau Stream, with boardwalks and waterfalls. It is mostly downhill and popular for point-to-point rides.
The Otaketake Trail is 12km long and branches off the K2K about 3km west of Kinloch. It climbs through the Otaketake Stream valley with native bush, birdlife and lake viewpoints before reaching the Orakau car park. Combined with the K2K it creates a popular 32km loop, best ridden anti-clockwise for optimal lake views.
Access, Connections and Practical Tips
Access the section from Kinloch or the Orakau car park. Boat shuttles operate across the lake to link with the Waihaha section at Waihora Bay. Shuttles and water taxis are commonly used for logistics and should be booked in advance.
Carry water, food and navigation tools as there are no services along the trails beyond Kinloch. Cell coverage is patchy beyond the immediate Kinloch area. The trails are suitable for mountain bikes and e-bikes; horses are not permitted.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the flowing singletrack, stunning lake and mountain views, and the refreshing swim at Kawakawa Bay. Many enjoy the Otaketake–K2K loop for its variety and birdlife, noting it as a highlight of the Great Lake Trails network.
Riders and walkers frequently mention the well-maintained trails, peaceful bays and the convenience of starting from Kinloch. Some note the climbs on the K2K section but appreciate the rewarding descents and scenery throughout.
Where to Learn More
Love Taupō — Kawakawa Section: Official details on the three trails, ride options and planning information.
NZ Cycle Trail — Great Lake Trail: Comprehensive network overview with section descriptions, grades and logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kawakawa Section?
It is the 19.5km central stretch of the Great Lake Trail made up of the K2K, Orakau and Otaketake trails between Kinloch and Kawakawa Bay.
How long is the K2K Trail?
The K2K Trail is approximately 8.4km from Kinloch to Kawakawa Bay and takes about 1.5 hours by bike one way.
Can you swim at Kawakawa Bay?
Yes, Kawakawa Bay offers clear lake water, a shelter, toilets and a campsite, making it a popular swimming and picnic spot.
What is the Otaketake–K2K loop?
The Otaketake Trail combines with the K2K for a 32km loop starting and finishing in Kinloch, featuring native bush and lake viewpoints.
Do I need a shuttle or boat transfer?
Shuttles help with access to the Orakau car park, and boat transfers are required to connect westward to the Waihaha section.
Are dogs allowed on the trails?
Dogs are permitted on the Great Lake Trails provided they are kept on leads.
What grade are the trails?
All three trails in the Kawakawa Section are Grade 3 intermediate standard.
Is the section suitable for walking?
Yes, walkers can enjoy the K2K or Orakau trails separately or combined as a half-day or full-day outing.
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