The Omori and Kuratau reserves sit on the western shore of Lake Taupō, roughly an hour from Taupō town. Both are small lakeside settlements with public reserve areas, and together they offer some of the quietest access to the lake’s western bays — far from the busy town waterfront. The surroundings are a mix of native bush and open lake shore, and the water here is calm and clear.
Practical Information
| Location | Omori and Kuratau, western shore of Lake Taupō — approx. 1 hour from Taupō town |
| Entry | Free |
| Freedom camping | Not permitted — banned at these reserves |
| Omori facilities | Boat ramp (rebuilt 2012), jetty, swimming beach, picnic area, croquet lawn, tennis and volleyball courts |
| Kuratau facilities | Boat ramp, playground, tennis court, general store |
| Access | Via State Highway 32 (western Lake Taupō route) |
About Omori Reserve
Omori is a secluded settlement at the southern end of the lake’s western shore. The public reserve here includes a boat ramp and jetty rebuilt in 2012, a safe swimming beach, picnic area, and a range of informal recreation facilities including a croquet lawn, tennis court, and volleyball court. The general store is close by. The combination of calm lake water and a sheltered beach makes Omori one of the more family-friendly spots on the western side of the lake.
The surrounding area has plenty of native bush, and the lake views here look eastward across to the volcanic plateau. It is noticeably quieter than the Taupō town waterfront, particularly outside the summer holidays.
About Kuratau Reserve
Kuratau sits on a flat bay slightly north of Omori. The public reserve includes a boat ramp, children’s playground, and tennis court. There is a general store in the village and a winery and café that operates over summer. The settlement is small — the kind of place where most visitors are returning holiday home owners or people passing through on the western lake road.
Freedom Camping
Freedom camping is not permitted at either Omori or Kuratau reserves. The sites were previously restricted to self-contained vehicles only, but ongoing non-compliance led to the ban being put in place. Visitors looking for lakeside freedom camping around Lake Taupō should check the Taupō District Council’s current list of designated sites.
What Visitors Say
“Omori is one of those places you’d never know existed unless someone told you. The water is perfect — calm and clear — and the boat ramp is in great condition. Very quiet outside January.”
“Kuratau has a lovely little bay. The playground kept the kids busy while we launched the boat. The store is handy for basics.”
Where to Learn More
Love Taupō – Kuratau covers the village, its facilities, and things to do in the western bay area.
Taupō District Council – Parks and Reserves has the current list of reserves, facilities, and freedom camping rules around the lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a boat ramp at Omori?
Yes. The Omori boat ramp and jetty were rebuilt in 2012 and are suitable for launching trailer boats onto Lake Taupō. A DIA boat permit is required to launch on the lake.
Can I freedom camp at Omori or Kuratau?
No. Freedom camping is not permitted at these reserves. Contact Taupō District Council or check the TDC website for approved freedom camping sites around the lake.
Is there swimming at these reserves?
Yes. Both Omori and Kuratau have access to the lake for swimming. Omori has a designated safe swimming beach within the reserve.
How far are Omori and Kuratau from Taupō town?
Both settlements are approximately one hour from Taupō town via State Highway 32, which follows the western shore of the lake.
Are there toilets at these reserves?
Toilet facilities are available in the reserves. Check the Taupō District Council website for current amenity details.
Is there a playground at Kuratau?
Yes. There is a children’s playground at Kuratau reserve, located near Horomatangi Place.
Both reserves are part of the Taupō Parks and Reserves network. Visitors using the western lake road may also pass through Pukawa Lakefront Reserve further north, near Turangi.