Summer list: Top five walking spots in and around Rotorua

The Rotorua Daily Post picks five of the great walking tracks in our region.

Lake Okaro:
Lake Okaro, nestled in the quiet countryside between Rotorua and Taupo, has been a popular spot for anglers for years. But for those who don't partake in the sport, the lake also has a great walking track. The round trip is less than a kilometre and takes about 35 minutes. It's a brilliant detour for those on a road trip who need to stretch their legs!

The redwoods. Photo/file

Redwoods Forest:
An obvious addition, but nonetheless worthy. The Redwoods Forest, with its abundance of walking and biking tracks, is a walkers' (and bikers') heaven. The unbeatable blend of riding surfaces, topography and scenery cater for all skill and fitness levels with more than 70 trails ranging from beginner to expert levels. Take the kids on one of the shorter loop tracks or plug in your headphones and explore alone.

Lake Okareka Boardwalk:
Suitable for pushchairs, the Lake Okareka Boardwalk is an easy stroll around the edge of one of Rotorua's most picturesque lakes. The 5km return walk showcases native vegetation, farmland and wetlands, with expansive views and wildlife. A two-minute drive down the road will take you to Tikitapu (Blue Lake) where you can enjoy another 5km loop.

Okere Falls:
With viewing platforms providing front row views of magnificent waterfalls and white water rafters making their way down the Kaituna River, as well as geocaches and glow worms at night, there is plenty to keep the children entertained on this short, easy walk. There are information panels along the track and a wide grassy area beside the main carpark, providing a good site for a bite to eat. The track is 1.2km and takes 30 minutes one way, to complete.

Ngongotaha Nature Loop:
An easy one-hour loop walk, meander through Mount Ngongotaha's unlogged native bush in tranquil surroundings. Interpretation panels along the way provide information on the plants and animals in the reserve. The short walk is oriented towards families and showcases the beautiful flora and fauna of the mountain.