Last updated July 2026
Two Mile Bay Boat Ramp Reserve is a popular public lakeside reserve on the southern edge of Taupō at Mapou Road. It features concrete boat ramps with vehicle and trailer parking, a swimming beach, toilets, and BBQ and picnic facilities on the shores of Lake Taupō. The reserve serves as a key stop on the Great Lake Pathway, also known as the Lions Walk, which runs along the lakefront from central Taupō toward Five Mile Bay. Access is free for general use, though a permit is required for the boat ramp.
Practical Information
| Address | Mapou Road, Two Mile Bay, Taupō |
| Entry | Free for general access |
| Boat ramp | Concrete ramps with vehicle and trailer parking |
| Ramp permit | Required for DIA-managed ramp; available online via ePermit or from local agents |
| Facilities | Toilets, BBQ areas, picnic tables, swimming beach |
| Trail connection | Located on the Great Lake Pathway (Lions Walk) |
About the Reserve
Two Mile Bay Boat Ramp Reserve lies on the Lake Taupō waterfront and forms part of the network of public reserves along the lake edge. The site provides straightforward access to the water for boating and recreation, with dedicated parking that accommodates trailers. Toilets and picnic facilities support day visits, while the adjacent beach offers a calm entry point into the lake.
The reserve is managed as public space by Taupō District Council, with the boat ramp facilities overseen by the Department of Internal Affairs. It experiences higher use during summer weekends when boating activity peaks on the lake. The setting remains sheltered on most days, making it suitable for a range of visitors.
Swimming and Lakeside Relaxation
Two Mile Bay includes a swimming beach with generally calm, clear lake water. The area is popular for family swimming and lakeside relaxation, with picnic tables and BBQ facilities available nearby. Public toilets are located at the reserve, and the site forms one of several swimming and rest spots along the lakefront pathway.
Visitors often combine swimming with a stop on the Great Lake Pathway. The beach provides easy access to the water, and the surrounding reserve offers space for picnics with lake views. Water conditions are typically cool and clear, though users should check current conditions before entering.
Boat Ramp and Permits
The concrete boat ramps at Two Mile Bay are a primary public launch point on Lake Taupō. Good parking for vehicles and trailers is available on site. A ramp permit from the Department of Internal Affairs is required to use the facility. Permits can be purchased online through the DIA ePermit system or from local agents such as dairies and service stations around Taupō. Both short-term and annual options are available, and the same permit covers other DIA-managed ramps on the lake.
Great Lake Pathway (Lions Walk)
Two Mile Bay Reserve sits directly on the Great Lake Pathway, the shared walking and cycling trail that follows the Lake Taupō shoreline. The full pathway measures 12.7 kilometres and takes approximately 2.5 hours to walk one way. The section from central Taupō to Two Mile Bay is a popular out-and-back route of roughly 45 to 60 minutes each way, offering continuous lake views and multiple swimming and rest opportunities along the way.
The trail is graded easy and suitable for walkers and cyclists of most abilities. Facilities including toilets are available at the bays along the route, supporting longer outings or relaxed lakeside stops.
What Visitors Often Say
The boat ramp offers reliable access with ample trailer parking, allowing families to launch boats while children use the nearby beach. The location works well as a convenient stop during a lakeside walk or cycle.
Visitors appreciate the clean facilities, picnic and BBQ areas, and the straightforward connection to the pathway from town. The swimming beach and lake views make it a pleasant spot for a relaxed outing.
Where to Learn More
Department of Internal Affairs – Lake Taupō Boat Ramps: Official information on ramp permits, pricing, and purchase options for Two Mile Bay and other DIA ramps.
Love Taupō – Great Lake Pathway: Details on the full trail route, distance, times, and facilities along the lakeside pathway.
Coastguard Lake Taupō – Local Boat Ramps: Practical guidance on boat ramps around the lake, including Two Mile Bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to use the boat ramp?
Yes. A ramp permit from the Department of Internal Affairs is required for the boat ramp at Two Mile Bay. Permits are available online or from local agents in Taupō.
Is there trailer parking at the reserve?
Yes. Dedicated parking for vehicles and trailers is available at the boat ramp reserve.
Can I swim at Two Mile Bay?
Yes. The reserve includes a swimming beach with generally calm lake water suitable for swimming and family use.
Are there BBQ and picnic facilities?
Yes. BBQ areas and picnic tables are provided at the reserve for public use.
How far is Two Mile Bay from central Taupō?
The reserve is approximately 2 kilometres south of the town centre along the lakefront and can be reached on foot via the Great Lake Pathway in about 45 to 60 minutes.
Is the reserve part of the Lions Walk?
Yes. Two Mile Bay Boat Ramp Reserve lies on the Great Lake Pathway (Lions Walk), a 12.7-kilometre shared trail along the lake edge.
Are toilets available?
Yes. Public toilets are located at the reserve and at other bays along the pathway.
Is the reserve open year-round?
Yes. The public reserve and facilities are available year-round, though use increases during summer.
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