Orakau Trail (Great Lake Trails)

The Orakau Trail, part of the Kawakawa Section, as it gracefully descends through lush native wetlands and leads you to the tranquil Kawakawa Bay. This scenic trail offers a gradual downhill ride, perfect for enjoying the surrounding beauty and serene destination.

Elevation

The Orakau Trail features a gentle downhill slope through native wetlands, leading to secluded Kawakawa Bay. Enjoy minimal climbs and serene descents as you navigate boardwalks and lush terrain, ending with breathtaking lakeside views.

Riding the Orakau Trail

At the Orakau carpark (20-minute drive from Kinloch), you will find a shelter with a map, information board and a toilet. From here, the trail follows the beautifully clear Orakau Stream thorugh regenerating native bush and past Harakakeke (native flax) wetlands down towards Kawakawa Bay. You will ride across boardwalks, past waterfalls and over ravines as the trail makes its way down towards the lake shore.

This trail is a dream to ride with the generally downhill profile of the first half lending itself to beautifully laid out corners and berms, giving it incredible flow. The trail boasts some stunning scenery and native birdlife – tuis and bellbirds in particular – and there are seats along the way at the best vantage points, so you can rest your legs while taking in the view.

As you near the beach at Kawakawa Bay you will cross two bridges that span some really deep ravines. It’s worth stopping and peering over the sides as the ravines are quite spectacular. After 10.25 km you will emerge onto the beach at the stunning Kawakawa Bay. There are views across the lake to the mountains of Tongariro National Park, and during summer this is the perfect place for a swim in the clear blue waters of Lake Taupō.

A shelter and campsite lies in a clearing at Kawakawa Bay, and you will often see rock climbers here. There is a long drop toilet available but no cooking facilities on site. Please bring your own tent and light no fires.

During summer, Kawakawa Bay is also frequented by boaties and walkers who have come over from Kinloch, so please remember this is a two way track if you are riding over to Kinloch

Supervolcanic trail details

Plan your trip

We highly recommend FourB Bike Shuttles & Tours for your shuttle and transfer needs. They don't just make the logistics seamless; if you're eager to dive deep into the area's beauty, they also offer guided bike tours. These tours are a fantastic way to discover and learn about the trail's most captivating viewpoints and landmarks.

Find out everything you need to plan for this track on Plan My Walk

Direction	The trail can be ridden in both directions, however we recommend riding west to east, starting with a ground shuttle and finishing in Kinloch.
Access, transport & guides	Park your vehicle in Kinloch and arrange for your shuttle to drop you off at the start of the Orakau Trail (Orakau carpark, Whangamata Road) - just 20 minutes from Kinloch.
Water taxi	A pre-booked boat transfer is available from Kawakawa Bay to Kinloch. A great option for those with low fitness levels or for children. Bookings are essential.
Dog access	Yes, dogs allowed
Trails nearby	K2K Trail and Otaketake Trail, part of the Great Lake Trails

Getting here

The start of the trail is 20-minutes drive from Kinloch at the Orakau carpark. The trail and carpark is well sign-posted off Whangamata Road. You can either park your car at the start of the trail or arrange for a shuttle to transfer you from the Kinloch Domain. The trail ends back in Kinloch (or you can arrange a water taxi pick up from Kawakawa Bay if you are wanting a shorter ride).

Use this location in Google Maps to find Orakau carpark.

Bike hire, Transport & Tours

Bike hire, shuttles and the water taxi are run almost entirely from Taupō. Fluctuating seasonal demand and the remoteless of pick-up/drop-off points makes it essential to book these services well in advance.

Find bike hire

Find transport & tours

Accommodation

Taupō has a wide range of accommodation both in town and around, all close to cafes, a supermarket and other visitor services. Kinloch has a respectable range of (predominantly homestay) options, too, but limited capacity makes it essential to book space in advance, the earlier the better if you plan to ride in peak season (December–March).

There are two back-to-nature campsites in Kawakawa and Whakaipo Bays (restrictions apply), plus a couple of glamping options near the trails.

Find accommodation

Safety Guidelines

Ride Within Your Abilities

Mountain biking involves various challenges and risks, including but not limited to steep descents, uneven terrain, and natural obstacles. It is vital that you ride within the limits of your capabilities and the trail ratings appropriate to your level of experience and skill. Do not attempt trails or maneuvers that are beyond your current skill level.

Below is a guide to trail grades, ability and the what the standard is:

Grade Rating	Technical Ability	What to expect
Grade 1	Easiest	Fairly flat, wide, smooth track or gravel road.
Grade 2	Easy	Mostly flat with some gentle climbs on smooth track with easily avoidable obstacles such as rocks and potholes.
Grade 3	Intermediate	Steep slopes and/or avoidable obstacles possibly on narrow track and/or with poor traction. There may be exposure at the track’s outside edge.
Grade 4	Advanced	A mixture of long, steep climbs, narrow track, poor traction and obstacles that are difficult to avoid or jump over. Generally exposed at the track’s outside edge. Most riders will find some sections easier to walk.
Grade 5	Expert	Technically challenging. Giant climbs, narrow track and numerous hazards including dangerous drop-offs, sharp corners and difficult obstacles. Expect walking and possibly bike carrying.
Grade 6	Extreme	Downhill/free ride specific tracks. Extremely steep sections with large drop-offs and other unavoidable obstacles. May include man made structures and jumps.

Preparation and Safety Gear

Proper preparation and safety gear are crucial for a safe mountain biking experience. Always wear a helmet and other recommended protective gear such as gloves, knee pads, and elbow pads. Ensure your mountain bike is in good working condition and appropriate for the trail types. Bring adequate hydration and snacks, especially for longer rides.

Trail Etiquette and Environmental Respect

Respect trail signage and keep to marked paths. Be courteous to other trail users and yield the right of way where appropriate. Do not leave any litter behind and avoid actions that could damage the natural environment or disturb wildlife.

Emergency Procedures

Before hitting the trails, ensure you are prepared for unexpected situations. Carry a basic first aid kit, a multi-tool for bike repairs, and a means of communication, such as a fully charged mobile phone or a two-way radio where service is limited. Consider the weather conditions and bring appropriate clothing and protective gear. Always inform a guide or fellow rider of your intended route and expected return time. Knowing basic first aid and bike repair techniques can be invaluable in case of minor accidents or mechanical issues.

Insurance

We recommend that all participants have personal insurance that covers mountain biking activities.

The Great Lake Trails are proud to be part of Ngā Haerenga - The New Zealand Cycle Trails network.

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