Wharewaka Point sits at Four Mile Bay on the southern shore of Lake Taupō, about four kilometres from the town centre along the Great Lake Walkway. The beach has calm, shallow lake water suited to swimming for all ages, with soft sand and a gradual entry into the lake. The point is a natural stopping spot on the walkway, with BBQ facilities, toilets, and parking making it practical for a half-day visit.
Practical Information
| Location | Wharewaka Point Reserve, Four Mile Bay — 4 km south-east of Taupō town on the Great Lake Walkway |
| Entry | Free, open all hours |
| Water | Calm, shallow, gradual entry; clear freshwater lake |
| Facilities | BBQ areas, picnic tables, public toilets, parking, playground |
| Great Lake Walkway | The walkway passes directly through the reserve on the 10 km route from town to Five Mile Bay |
| Lifeguards | Not present — unsupervised |
The Swimming
The beach at Wharewaka Point has soft sand and a gradual entry into the lake — the water shallows slowly rather than dropping away, which is comfortable for families with younger children. The bay is naturally sheltered by the point, keeping the water calmer than more exposed stretches of the lakefront. Lake Taupō’s water quality is monitored seasonally across multiple sites, and the southern lakefront generally maintains good conditions through summer.
Wharewaka Point is not a designated swim-only area in the same way as Two Mile Bay or Three Mile Bay — the broader lake is open water — but the sheltered bay location means boat traffic is lighter here than on the main lake expanse. The playground and BBQ facilities at the reserve make it a complete half-day family destination.
Great Lake Walkway
The Great Lake Walkway (also called the Lions Walk) runs along the lake shore from the Taupō town waterfront south-east to Five Mile Bay — a 10-kilometre sealed path suitable for walking, running, and cycling. Wharewaka Point is approximately four kilometres from the town-end start, making it a reasonable turnaround point for a moderate outing. Two Mile Bay is the stop before Wharewaka Point on the walkway heading south-east from town.
What Visitors Say
“Great spot with a lovely playground and that classic Lake Taupō view. The kids swam while we had a BBQ — very clean and well set up.”
“We stopped here halfway along the Lions Walk — perfect place to rest, swim, and eat. Easy to park if you’re driving rather than walking.”
Where to Learn More
Love Taupō – Summer Swimming and Walking covers the Great Lake Walkway route and the reserves along it including Wharewaka Point.
Taupō District Council – Parks and Reserves — official listing for reserves along the lakefront.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wharewaka Point good for swimming with young children?
Yes — the beach has a gradual, sandy entry into the lake and calm, sheltered water. It is one of the more family-friendly swimming spots on the southern lakefront.
How far is Wharewaka Point from Taupō town?
Approximately four kilometres, either via the Great Lake Walkway on foot or bike, or by car via Lake Terrace with parking at the reserve.
Is there a playground at Wharewaka Point?
Yes — a playground is within the reserve, alongside the BBQ areas and picnic tables.
What is the Great Lake Walkway?
The Great Lake Walkway (Lions Walk) is a 10 km sealed path along the lake shore from Taupō town to Five Mile Bay. Wharewaka Point is a key stop along the route.
Wharewaka Point is part of the Swimming in Taupō lakefront network. The Wharewaka Point Reserve page covers the playground and BBQ facilities at the same location.