Hot Water Beach Camp Drop Off by Totally Tarawera in Rotorua
Difficulty
easy
Duration
25 minutes by water taxi
Fitness Level
Suitable for individuals in average physical condition; no strenuous hiking required to reach drop-off
Overview
Access Rotorua’s unique Hot Water Beach Camp with Totally Tarawera’s water taxi service. Enjoy geothermal pools and wilderness camping without the hassle of heavy gear hauling.
Hot Water Beach Camp Drop Off - for Campers ONLY
Vehicle parking is at Kariri Point Reserve/Boat Shed Bay, Lake Tarawera
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
If you decide you want to walk the Tarawera Trail before or after your Hot Water Beach Camp stay you will want to park your vehicle at the Tarawera Trail Car Park. NB: Our van shuttle does not have enough space for people and camp gear so please make sure you drop your camp gear and any passengers at the water taxi berth at Kariri Point Reserve before parking your car at the Tarawera Trail Car Park.
Water Taxi departs from Kariri Point Reserve/Boat Shed Bay. http://goo.gl/maps/Uok6B2qGdXWceudK6
Camp gear must be declared on your booking. This ensures your gear travels with you.
Duration
25 Minutes by Water Taxi
Departure times
12:00pm 3:00pm
About
BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL
Hot Water Beach – Te Rata Bay Te Rata is a very special place so cell phone coverage is inconsistent along the Tarawera Trail and at Hot Water Beach Camp.
Be aware that during the busy season, you will share Hot Water Beach with other visitors.
What to Bring
- All camping gear
- Drinking water
- Enough food for your length of stay
- Sunscreen
Camp gear transfer costs.
- $10 per Tramping pack or similar camping gear
- $10 chilli bin
- $15 2-4 man tent
- $25 for unaccompanied 3 x camp gear with $10 per any camp gear item following.
Travel is in our all-weather boat.
Adventure Tips
Book Your Spot Early
Spaces are limited and bookings are essential, especially during peak season. Secure your camp gear transfer in advance to guarantee smooth logistics.
Pack Light for the Trail
Camp gear is transported separately by boat, but keep personal packs manageable to handle local terrain comfortably once ashore.
Prepare for Limited Connectivity
Cell coverage is inconsistent at Hot Water Beach Camp and along the Tarawera Trail, plan accordingly for communication needs.
Respect the Hot Springs
Stay mindful of environmental sensitivity around geothermal areas and ensure you leave no trace when digging or soaking in hot pools.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- New Zealand fantail (Piwakawaka)
- Native long-tailed bats (Pekapeka)
History
Te Rata Bay lies near the historic Lake Tarawera, famously affected by the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption, which reshaped the landscape and exposed thermal activity.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to minimize impact by practicing strict leave-no-trace principles, especially around fragile geothermal features and native bush.
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Adventure Hotspots in Rotorua
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Durable Camping Tent
Necessary for overnight stays at Hot Water Beach Camp.
Waterproof Bag or Dry Sack
Protect gear from moisture during boat transit and unpredictable weather.
Sunscreen
Critical for sun protection during open water taxi rides and time on the beach.
summer specific
Warm Layers
Evenings and nights can be cold, especially in autumn and winter seasons.
fall|winter specific