A Walk along the Lakefront, Rotorua New Zealand
Enjoy an Easy Walk in the Volcanic Heartland of the Pacific
Forged by volcanic forces and steeped in Maori history, Lake Rotorua lies nestled in the basin of a long extinct volcano. Few visitors fail to remark on the sulphurous odour that is a continuous reminder of Rotorua’s volcanic past but it’s the bubbling mud pools and drifting steam that help to lend Rotorua its unique atmosphere. A well-maintained cobblestone walkway curves around the foreshore of the lake just minutes from the city centre.
Ohinemutu – Rotorua’s first Settlement and Ancestral Home of Tamatekapua
A good starting point and easily accessible via this walkway is Ohinemutu, the site of Rotorua’s paramount marae and the ancestral home of Tamatekapua, captain of the Te Arawa canoe that made landfall on New Zealand’s coastline many millennia ago. The early settlers, both Maori and European, made good use of the thermal waters at Ohinemutu for cooking, bathing and heating.
St Faiths, the tudor-style church built at Ohinemutu in 1910 is well worth a visit with its decorations of woven panels and carvings and the large etched window overlooking the lake where Christ appears to be walking on water. Behind the church lies a small peaceful graveyard where old soldiers are buried and the ANZAC day dawn parade is held each year.
Waka Taua – a Reminder of the Great Maori Migrations
Protected within a barred enclosure, the magnificent 33m Waka Taua (war canoe) carved by local master carver Lyonel Grant can be seen further along the lakefront. This imposing vessel is a reminder of the great migrations of Maori whose ocean voyages brought them to New Zealand more than a thousand years ago. Canoes were sometimes hauled overland to new settlements in the inland reaches. The Waka Taua at Rotorua is still occasionally used for ceremonial events.
Mokoia Island – Site of a Love Story that Spans Centuries
Jade-coloured Mokoia Island with its gently rounded form and bush-covered slopes is easily seen from the walkway. Legend has it that Hinemoa, a Maori maiden of great beauty was forbidden by her family from marrying Tutanekai, a handsome warrior who lived on the island. Determined to be with her lover, one moonless night Hinemoa swam across the dark waters to Tutanekai, guided by the haunting song of his flute. Rotorua city’s two main interlocking streets are now named after the young lovers and the warm pool on Mokoia where Hinemoa rested after her long, cold swim, carries her name to this day.
Sulphur Point – Warm Water and a Sanctuary for Birdlife
Vari-coloured thermal flats and a multitude of birdlife greet walkers as they continue along the well-kept walkway to Sulphur Point, Lake Rotorua’s southernmost bay. According to New Zealand Department of Conservation's online booklet, the warm, opalescent waters of this protected wildlife area offer sanctuary to over 60 bird species, including 45 native species.
Facilities – Café, Clean Toilets, Picnic Spots and an Adventure Playground
A café at the lakefront offers a variety of snacks and light meals and there are clean toilet facilities at several points. If there are children in your party, a colourful, safe adventure playground gives everyone an enjoyable break. There are also picnic tables and seats at various spots along the walkway. A craft market is held at the lakefront every second Sunday. While locals use the area for a brisk walk or run, visitors would enjoy spending more time meandering along the walkway soaking up the environment. Two hours would not be too long if one takes in Ohinemutu and stops to enjoy a coffee. While Rotorua is generally a safe area, this walk is best taken in daylight hours. Because of the thermal activity, visitors should stay in the designated areas.
Rotorua Information Centre is at 1167 Fenton Street. Ph 64 7 348 5179 info@rotoruanz.com.
Rotorua Lakefront Early in the Morning
|
Sulphur Point is a Sanctuary for Birdlife
|
St Faiths Church, Ohinemutu & Mokoia Island
|
What do you think about this article?
More in Travel
Latest Articles