THE ULTIMATE ONE DAY HIKE
Distance: ~17 km
Grade: Intermediate level of fitness
Time: ~4 hours
Terrain: Native bush • Volcanic • Singletrack
Finish: Scenic boat transfer from Waihora Bay
WAIHORA BAY
Escape into the remote Western Bays of Lake Taupō on one of the region’s most spectacular one-day hiking adventures.
Follow the Waihora Track, part of the Great Lake Trails, through lush native bush, dramatic volcanic rock formations and elevated viewpoints overlooking Lake Taupō. As the trail winds towards the lake, you’ll descend alongside Kotukutuku Stream and discover Kotukutuku Waterfall, hidden amongst the native forest before emerging onto the secluded shores of Waihora Bay.
Kick off your hiking shoes, relax and, if the weather is right, cool off with a swim before boarding your boat.
The adventure continues on the water with a spectacular cruise back to Kinloch, passing the remote cliffs, hidden bays and waterfalls of Lake Taupō’s Western Bays.
Hike in. Boat out. Experience a side of Lake Taupō few visitors get to see. A great alternative to the Tongariro Crossing.
THE LOGISTICS
Exploring the remote Western Bays of Lake Taupō takes a little planning — we make it easy.
If you’re joining our Guided Adventure, we’ll collect you from your Taupō accommodation at 8:30am and take care of everything from there. Your guide will accompany you throughout the hike, and a picnic lunch is provided, so you can concentrate on enjoying the trail.
If you’re heading out Self-Guided, meet us in Kinloch at 9:00am. From there, we’ll take care of the transport to the trailhead and have your boat transfer arranged for the end of your hike where you will boat back to your vehicle.
Both adventures finish at beautiful Waihora Bay, where your boat will be waiting to take you on a scenic journey back across the Western Bays back into Kinloch marina.
No car shuffles, no worrying about how to get back from a remote trail — just an incredible day exploring Lake Taupō on foot.
CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE
Choose the experience that suits you — enjoy the knowledge and company of a FourB guide, or head out independently and explore at your own pace.
GUIDED ADVENTURE
Accommodation pick-up from Taupō at 8:30am, transport, a FourB guide, picnic lunch, boat transfer and return transport included.
SELF-GUIDED ADVENTURE
Meet us in Kinloch at 9:00am. We’ll organise your trail transport and boat transfer, leaving you free to enjoy the hike your way.
