The Government is investing $1 million into upgrading walking tracks around Lakes Tarawera and Ōkātaina, aiming to improve visitor access, strengthen conservation outcomes, and support tourism growth in the Rotorua region.
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka announced the funding package as part of wider investment into New Zealand’s conservation and visitor infrastructure network. The upgrades will focus on improving track quality, safety, resilience, and accessibility in one of Aotearoa’s most popular outdoor recreation areas.
The Tarawera and Ōkātaina areas are internationally recognised for their native forests, lakes, geothermal landscapes, and cultural significance to Te Arawa iwi and hapū.
The investment comes amid growing pressure on conservation infrastructure as visitor numbers continue increasing across regional tourism destinations.
The Government says improving tracks and facilities helps protect fragile natural environments while supporting local economies reliant on tourism and outdoor recreation.
The Rotorua lakes region attracts thousands of domestic and international visitors every year for walking, boating, fishing, mountain biking, and eco-tourism experiences.
The funding is also expected to strengthen biodiversity and environmental management efforts around the lakes, where invasive species and environmental pressures remain ongoing challenges.
Recent Government conservation investment has included biodiversity projects, predator control, and tourism infrastructure upgrades designed to improve visitor experiences while protecting natural ecosystems.
The Tarawera and Ōkātaina track improvements are part of broader efforts to balance tourism growth with environmental sustainability and cultural protection across the conservation estate.
Local tourism operators and outdoor recreation groups have welcomed the investment, saying improved tracks will enhance safety and help future-proof the region’s tourism offerings.
The Rotorua lakes remain among the Bay of Plenty’s most important tourism and recreation assets, while also holding deep cultural and historical importance for mana whenua.
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