A day trip from Rotorua to Kawerau offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in the Bay of Plenty. The 50-minute drive leads to premier attractions including the spectacular Tarawera Falls, the culturally significant Mount Putauaki, and the free Maurie Kjar Memorial thermal pools, creating an ideal itinerary for nature lovers and families.
How do you drive from Rotorua to Kawerau?
Embarking on day trips from Rotorua to Kawerau requires minimal travel time but rewards visitors with maximum scenic value. The journey is straightforward, covering approximately 55 to 60 kilometers depending on your starting point in Rotorua, with a typical drive time of 45 to 55 minutes.
Departing Rotorua, you will head east on State Highway 30 (Te Ngae Road), passing the Rotorua Airport. This route—known as the “Rotoma Dip”—is visually stunning, hugging the southern shores of Lake Rotoiti, Lake Rotoehu, and Lake Rotoma. The proximity to these lakes provides a tranquil backdrop for the drive, with native bush often creating a canopy over parts of the highway.
Upon reaching the turnoff at Tikitere, continue straight past Hells Gate (unless you plan a quick detour). The critical junction occurs after passing Lake Rotoma; you will turn right onto State Highway 34, which leads directly into the heart of Kawerau. The descent into the valley offers a panoramic view of Mount Putauaki (Mount Edgecumbe), the iconic volcanic cone that defines the region’s skyline.
Road Conditions and Safety
The road is fully sealed and generally well-maintained. However, State Highway 30 can be winding, particularly around the lakes. Drivers should exercise caution during winter months when shaded corners may be icy. There are several passing lanes, so patience is advised if you encounter logging trucks, which are common in this forestry-rich district.
What are the best morning activities in Kawerau?
To maximize your day trip, prioritize the most physically demanding or logistically complex activities for the morning. In Kawerau, the crown jewel is undoubtedly the Tarawera Falls.
Visiting Tarawera Falls
The Tarawera Falls are unlike most waterfalls in New Zealand. Instead of cascading over a cliff edge from a visible river, the water surges spectacularly out of fissures in the middle of a high cliff face, traveling through underground lava tubes from Lake Tarawera. The sight of the water bursting from the rock is a geological marvel.
Important Permit Information: Access to the falls requires driving on private forestry roads. You must purchase a permit ($10 NZD) before entering the gate. Permits are available online or at the Kawerau i-SITE Visitor Information Centre on Plunket Street. Do not attempt to enter without one, as security cameras and gates are in operation.
The walk to the falls is relatively easy, taking about 20 minutes one way from the car park. The track follows the Tarawera River, renowned for its crystal-clear water and trout populations. For the more adventurous, the track continues upward to the outlet of Lake Tarawera, a hike that takes roughly 2 hours return.
Mount Putauaki (Mount Edgecumbe)
Dominating the landscape is Mount Putauaki. While climbing to the summit offers 360-degree views of the Bay of Plenty, it is a significant undertaking and requires a permit from the Māori land owners. If you are not up for a strenuous hike, the mountain is best appreciated from Firmin Field or Waterhouse Street Reserve, where you can take stunning photographs of the dormant volcano looming over the town.
Where should you eat in Kawerau?
After a morning of hiking and exploration, refueling is essential. While Kawerau is a small industrial town and not a culinary metropolis, it offers solid, authentic options for hungry travelers. The town operates on a relaxed pace, so expect friendly service and hearty portions.
The Picnic Strategy
Given the abundance of green spaces, a picnic is often the best lunch strategy for day trips from Rotorua to Kawerau. We recommend packing a cooler before you leave Rotorua. The Stoneham Walk (Monarch Park) or the riverside reserves near the Tarawera River offer picnic tables and shaded areas under established trees. Eating al fresco allows you to soak in the atmosphere of the “town of trees.”
Local Cafes and Takeaways
If you prefer to buy lunch, head to the town center. The Check Out is a popular local spot known for good coffee and cabinet food. For a classic Kiwi experience, visiting a local bakery for a meat pie or grabbing fish and chips to eat at the park is highly recommended. The Kawerau Hotel also offers pub-style meals if you are looking for a sit-down lunch option.
How to spend the afternoon in Kawerau?
As the afternoon sets in, shift the pace from adventure to relaxation. Kawerau sits on an active geothermal field, and the town utilizes this resource for both industry and leisure.
Maurie Kjar Memorial Swimming Pool
This is a “must-do” for any visitor. The Maurie Kjar Memorial Swimming Pool complex is free to the public and heated by geothermal energy. It is a fantastic facility that rivals paid spas in other regions.
The complex features:
- A large 30-meter main pool kept at a comfortable temperature.
- Two smaller thermal pools that are hotter, perfect for soaking tired muscles after the Tarawera Falls walk.
- A splash pad for children.
- BBQ facilities and well-maintained lawns.
The water is soft and rich in minerals, providing a therapeutic experience. Because it is a community hub, it offers a great opportunity to chat with locals and experience the genuine hospitality of the town.
Waterhouse Street Reserve & River Walks
Before leaving town, take a stroll along the Tarawera River at the Waterhouse Street Reserve. This area is used for white water kayaking and rafting competitions. You can watch the river surge through the slalom course. It is a peaceful way to end your time in the township proper, watching the power of the water against the backdrop of the industrial mill steam and the mountain.
What are the best stops on the way back to Rotorua?
The drive back to Rotorua offers different lighting and opportunities to stop at places you may have missed in the morning rush.
Waitangi Soda Springs
Located near Lake Rotoehu on your return route, the Waitangi Soda Springs are a hidden gem. These are natural, non-commercialized hot springs. While facilities are minimal (changing sheds are basic), the experience is raw and authentic. The water bubbles up into a stream, and it is a favorite spot for locals. Note that there is usually a small koha (donation) or entry fee required by the local trust that manages the site.
Lake Rotoma
About 15 minutes from Kawerau on the return leg, Lake Rotoma is the clearest of the Rotorua lakes. Pull over at the Matahi Spit reserve. In summer, the swimming here is exceptional due to the water clarity. In cooler months, it is a perfect spot to stretch your legs and skip stones. The late afternoon sun hitting the lake creates beautiful reflection photography opportunities.
Essential Planning Tips for Your Day Trip
To ensure your day trip from Rotorua to Kawerau goes smoothly, keep the following logistical tips in mind:
- Fuel: Ensure you have sufficient fuel. While Kawerau has service stations, rural driving can consume more gas than expected.
- Clothing: Pack layers. The Bay of Plenty is generally warm, but the area near the waterfall can be cool and damp, while the thermal pools require swimwear and towels.
- Connectivity: Mobile signal is generally good in Kawerau and along the highway, but can be patchy on the forestry roads leading to Tarawera Falls. Download offline maps before you go.
- Forestry Roads: The road to Tarawera Falls is unsealed (gravel). It is suitable for most standard cars, but drive slowly to avoid stone chips and dust clouds. Low-slung sports cars may struggle with potholes.
Kawerau is often bypassed by tourists rushing to the coast, but those who take the time to explore this industrial heartland discover a community rich in natural beauty and Māori culture. By following this itinerary, you uncover a side of New Zealand that is authentic, uncrowded, and deeply connected to the land.
How far is Kawerau from Rotorua?
Kawerau is approximately 55 to 60 kilometers from Rotorua. The drive typically takes between 45 and 55 minutes via State Highway 30 and State Highway 34, passing by the scenic Rotorua lakes.
Is the Kawerau thermal pool free?
Yes, the Maurie Kjar Memorial Swimming Pool in Kawerau is free to the public. It includes a large main pool, hotter thermal soaking pools, and a splash pad for children, all heated by natural geothermal energy.
Do I need a permit for Tarawera Falls?
Yes, a permit is required to access Tarawera Falls because the access road passes through private forestry land. Permits cost approximately $10 per vehicle and can be purchased at the Kawerau i-SITE or online.
What is Kawerau famous for?
Kawerau is famous for its massive pulp and paper mill industry, its geothermal activity, the iconic Mount Putauaki (Mount Edgecumbe), and the spectacular Tarawera Falls. It is often referred to as the “town of trees.”
Can you climb Mt Putauaki?
Access to the summit of Mt Putauaki is restricted as it is privately owned Māori land. However, organized climbs occur once a year during the King of the Mountain race, or specific permission/permits must be obtained from the Māori Trust owners for hiking at other times.
Is the road to Tarawera Falls sealed?
The road from the forestry gate to the Tarawera Falls car park is unsealed gravel. While it is generally well-maintained and accessible for standard vehicles, drivers should proceed with caution to avoid stone damage and dust.
