At Manawa’s doorstep is access to Lake Tarawera and the wider Rotorua lakes region. New Zealand’s best range of cultural and natural attractions.
Local Spots of Interest
Stoney Point
Beach and public reserve with boat ramp and playground.
The Landing
Jetty, beach, boat ramp and cafe.
Buried Village
Historic archaeological site of the 1886 Mt Tarawera eruption. Shop, cafe, museum with outdoor historic sites and Wairere Falls walk.
Tarawera Trail
4-5 hour tramp from Te Wairoa to hot water beach.
Hot water spots
Te Rata Bay (hot water beach), Lakeside rock pools (“jacuzzi”) and Te Wairua Stream (shallow warm pool).
Rotomahana walk
Isthmus track takes 20-30 mins to walk to Lake Rotomahana, the historic site of the buried Pink and White Terraces.
Tarawera Falls track
From Tarawera Outlet there is a 2 hour walk (one way) through native bush following the Tarawera river to the spectacular Tarawera Falls. An hour from the outlet there is a very refreshing swimming hole.
Spots of Interest in the Rotorua lakes region
Geothermal Activity
There are many beautiful geothermal parks in the area. Rotorua is famous for its naturally therapeutic waters at one of many local geothermal hot pool spas. Newly opened Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa is nestled by the captivating Lake Rotorua, its name, ‘Chiefly Waters,’ reflects the majesty it holds. Owned and curated by the local iwi, you’ll discover the Wai Whakaora, a path to restoration, and the exclusive sanctuary, Āhuru Mōwai, both deeply rooted in Māori values.
Māori Culture
The Rotorua region offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Māori heritage. Cultural locations and various events offer a chance to sample Māori history and traditions.
Family Fun
Rotorua Skyline and Luge offers a wonderful view of the Rotorua area and exciting luge and mountain bike trail down the hill. It also has the Stratosfare Restaurant offering lunch and dinner buffets on selected days. Other notable attractions include: Paradise Valley Springs. Zorb. Amazing maze, etc. There is a wide range of activities like this throughout the Rotorua region.
Outdoor Adventures
World class cycling and tramping trails, treetop walk and other attractions. Manawa is just a 10-15 minute drive from the nearest entry point into the world-famous Whakarewarewa Redwoods Forest. The Redwoods Treewalk provides a canopy-height view of this mesmerising ecosystem. Lake Tikitapu (Blue lake) is a beautiful swimming spot with various lookouts, a playground. There is a 1.5 hour easy loop walk around the picturesque lake.
There are many more places of interest including Maori heritage and historical sites in the Rotorua Lakes District to explore.