Wharewaka Playground sits within the Wharewaka Point Reserve at Four Mile Bay, on the southern shore of Lake Taupō. The playground is part of a larger reserve area that includes BBQ facilities, toilets, lake swimming access, and walking paths that connect to the Lions Walk running from Taupō town to Five Mile Bay. The setting — open lakefront with views across Lake Taupō — makes it a popular stop for families along the waterfront.
Practical Information
| Location | Wharewaka Point Reserve, Four Mile Bay — on the Lions Walk route south-east of Taupō town |
| Entry | Free, open all hours |
| Facilities | Playground, BBQ areas, picnic tables, public toilets, swimming access, parking |
| Lions Walk | Reserve is a stop on the 10km lakeside trail from Taupō town to Five Mile Bay |
| Managed by | Taupō District Council |
About the Reserve
Wharewaka Point Reserve occupies a flat, grassed lakefront area on the southern shore of the lake. The playground is a key feature of the reserve, well positioned with direct lake views and space for children to run around on the surrounding grass. The BBQ and picnic facilities make it a practical destination for families spending time along the waterfront.
The reserve forms part of the continuous chain of reserves linking the Taupō town waterfront to the settlements further along the lake shore. The Lions Walk — the popular 10-kilometre lakeside trail from Taupō town — passes through the reserve, meaning it is often reached on foot or by bike as part of a longer outing along the lake.
Swimming
Wharewaka Point has lake swimming access. The water along this stretch of the southern shore is clear and typically calm, and the reserve area provides a comfortable base for a swim, with toilets and BBQ facilities nearby. It is one of the stops on the southern lake waterfront where TDC provides public amenities.
Getting There
The reserve is accessible by car with parking available on site. It is also a natural stop for those walking or cycling the Lions Walk — approximately four kilometres from the Taupō town waterfront along the lakeside path. The route passes Two Mile Bay before reaching Wharewaka Point, and continues to Five Mile Bay beyond.
What Visitors Say
“A great spot with a lovely playground and that classic Lake Taupō view. The kids played while we had a BBQ. Very clean and well maintained.”
“We stopped here halfway along the Lions Walk — perfect place to rest and eat. The playground is right by the lake which made it easy to keep an eye on everyone.”
Where to Learn More
Taupō District Council – Parks and Reserves lists all reserves along the southern lakefront with facilities and current conditions.
Love Taupō – Summer Swimming and Walking covers the Lions Walk route and the reserves it passes through including Wharewaka Point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Wharewaka Playground?
Wharewaka Playground is in Wharewaka Point Reserve at Four Mile Bay, on the Lions Walk route south-east of Taupō town centre.
Is Wharewaka Playground free?
Yes. The playground and all reserve facilities are free and open to the public.
Are there BBQ facilities at Wharewaka?
Yes. BBQ areas and picnic tables are available within Wharewaka Point Reserve.
Can I swim at Wharewaka Point?
Yes. The reserve has lake swimming access. Facilities including toilets are available on site.
How far is Wharewaka from Taupō town?
Approximately four kilometres along the Lions Walk lakeside trail, or a short drive from the town centre with parking available on site.
Wharewaka Playground is part of the Taupō Parks and Reserves network. The Taupō Lakefront Reserve and Lions Walk connects Wharewaka Point to the town waterfront, while the Two Mile Bay Boat Ramp Reserve is an intermediate stop along the route.