Lake Waikaremoana Hike

After a cooked breakfast this is the longest day of walking, but there is still plenty of time to enjoy the bush, birds and beaches of the western arm of Lake Waikaremoana. Make the most of the many scenic lakeside and lookout spots for rests and refreshments, and you can choose to indulge in a swim. After lunch an optional boat cruise reduces walking time, and makes the side track to Korokoro Falls more achievable. These stunning falls are worth the detour! Te Urewera forest is comprised of a huge range of tree and plant species, which provide homes for many native birds. You are likely to witness the amazing flights of the fantail, tomtit and kereru, and hear the melodious calls of the bellbird and tui. For the last part of the day, walk through kanuka forest, which forms a tunnel-like trail on the lake shore. Waiopaoa Hut, nestled amongst the luxuriant rainforest that stretches to the lake edge, is your home for the night. NB: Some departures we will spend this night at Waiharuru Hut again.

Continuing along the Panekiri ridge, breaks in the forest offer more magnificent views and you will have fantastic photo opportunities from the ledges of the monolithic rock formations that form the range. From here you can look across Onepoto Bay and see the evidence of the landslide that created Lake Waikaremoana over two thousand years ago.

Experience the changing landscapes as you descend back to lake level and understand why this walk is considered one of New Zealand's "Greats". On completing the track you have time to celebrate your walking achievements, new friends, and enhanced knowledge and appreciation of the natural and cultural history of Waikaremoana. Return to Rotorua by 6pm.