Pukawa to Omori
Begins at the end of Kaiuru Avenue in Pukawa Village. The track wanders through the bush along the edge of Lake Taupo on an easy gradient. Bellbird and tūī are often seen in the trees above, and from time to time glimpses of nearby Lake Taupo. The track emerges at Omori Reserve on the edge of the lake where there is a picnic area, toilet and shingle beach.
The reserve is notable for the kōwhai trees which create a splash of bright yellow when flowering. Aluminium bands have been placed around some kohuhu trees to prevent possums from climbing up to eat the palatable native mistletoe.
The track continues on over the Omori Stream where in winter spawning trout may be seen. It's another 10 minutes to the end of the track at the Omori boat ramp. Popular with dog owners, be sure to pay attention to the local signs regarding dogs on council land around the lake.
| Distance | 1.4km |
| Time | 1 hour 20 minutes (one way) |
| Physical rating | Easy |
| Direction | Both directions |
| Transport & guides | No |
| Dog access | Dogs on a leash only |
Pukawa Bush Walk
Time: 45 min loop
Distance: 1.2 km
Begins on Hauraki Terrace, off Pukawa Road. The track entrance is just past Rereao Lane.
The track is usually walked in an anti-clockwise direction. It climbs up through Pukawa Bush above the village on a well graded route. A short way up there is a lookout with views over the village and lake. The lush podocarp forest contains large rimu, mataī and tōtara trees. Birdlife is a feature of this area and in particular bellbird and tūī which frequent this part of the bush.
The bush gradually changes to a rewarewa/kamahi forest and near the top opens out to a magnificent view of Lake Taupo and the surrounding countryside. Descending again, the last part of the track follows the route of the old Pukawa Road. The track ends on Rereao Lane, which you can follow back to your starting point.
| Distance | 1.2km |
| Time | 45 minutes |
| Physical rating | Easy |
| Direction | Loop |
| Transport & guides | No |
| Dog access | Dogs on a leash only |
Upper Pukawa Walk
This is a safe alternative to walking down the main Pukawa Road into the village. The track starts off at the top of Hauraki Terrace, then goes onto Rereao Lane - follow Taupo District Council signs on to the water tank road. At the top, veer to your left and follow the track through the bush to the top of the Pukawa Road and SH41.
Find out everything you need to plan for these tracks on Plan My Walk