Northern Tarawera Track

This track can be walked from either end and is accessible by boat or connecting tracks.

The track begins at the Tarawera Outlet swing bridge. Cross the bridge and take the left hand track at the junction. The track passes a jetty a short distance from the Outlet and progresses westward.

Views of the lake become less frequent as the track climbs inland. The track descends into Humphries Bay - a pleasant picnic and overnight camping area.

Camping facilities and toilets are provided at Lake Tarawera Outlet and Humphries Bay campsites.  

Other options

Trampers can then take the Eastern Okataina Walkway northwards to access Otangimoana Bay on Lake Okataina (approximately 20 minutes one way) or onwards to complete the Walkway at the Okataina carpark (Tauranganui Bay - a further 2 hours 40 minutes walk).

Access by walking is by DOC tracks that link to this area:

• Tarawera Falls to Tarawera Outlet Track
• Eastern Okataina Walkway to Humphries Bay

Or access by boat at either Humphries Bay or Te Tapahoro / The Outlet

There is no vehicle access to Te Tapahoro / The Outlet Campsite

Access permits

You'll need to get a permit to access Tarawera Falls carpark. Use of the private forestry roads in the forest is at the discretion of the forestry owners. Check the conditions of your forestry permit.

Access permits can be obtained from the Kawerau isite Visitor Information Centre.

Kawerau isite Visitor Information Centre
Plunket Street, Kawerau 3127
Phone: +64 7 323 6300
Email: infocentre@kaweraudc.govt.nz
Opening hours for Kawerau isite Visitor Information Centre

You need to be well prepared when tramping on conservation land, especially on longer day walks.  Ensure you have warm clothes, strong, comfortable boots, a good raincoat, first aid kit, food and drink, a hat and sunscreen.  It is also advisable to leave your tramping intentions with a responsible person, in case you get lost.