Last updated July 2026
Lake Tūtira is a popular recreational lake in northern Hawke’s Bay, offering trout fishing, walking tracks, and camping opportunities. Located beside State Highway 2, it lies approximately 40 minutes north of Napier and about an hour’s drive from Hastings. The 178-hectare lake is stocked with rainbow trout and provides easy shore access along with non-motorised boating options. Visitors enjoy the scenic setting with picnic facilities and nearby tracks leading to panoramic views.
The lake forms part of Tūtira Regional Park and is managed with input from the Department of Conservation and Hawke’s Bay Regional Council. Conservation measures include restrictions on motorised craft to protect against aquatic weeds. Water quality monitoring is ongoing, and visitors should check for algal bloom advisories before swimming. The area also features historical Māori pā sites visible around the shoreline.
Practical Information
| Location | North of Napier on SH2, near Tutira settlement, Hawke’s Bay |
| Size | 178 hectares |
| Access | Signposted tracks off SH2; parking at northern end and southern causeway |
| Camping | DOC campsite free and open year-round (first-come, first-served); HBRC campground bookable with fees, closed July–September |
| Boating | Non-motorised only (kayak, sail, rowboat); motorised craft prohibited |
| Fishing | Rainbow trout; valid Fish & Game licence required |
| Facilities | Picnic shelter, toilets, parking; no fires permitted |
| Dogs | Not permitted (wildlife reserve status) |
About Lake Tūtira
Lake Tūtira sits in a scenic basin surrounded by steep hills in northern Hawke’s Bay. State Highway 2 runs along its western shore, providing straightforward access for day visitors from Hastings or Napier. The lake supports a productive trout fishery and serves as a hub for low-impact recreation including fishing, picnicking, and short walks.
Historical Māori occupation is evident from pā sites around the lake. Today the area balances recreation with environmental management, including water quality monitoring and restrictions to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic weeds. The twin lakes of Tūtira and Waikōpirō form the core of Tūtira Regional Park.
Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and easy combination of activities. Shore-based fishing spots are well signposted, while tracks offer options from short lakeside strolls to longer hill climbs with wide views across Hawke’s Bay.
Trout Fishing at Lake Tūtira
The lake is the main stillwater fishery in Hawke’s Bay and is regularly stocked with rainbow trout sourced from Lake Tarawera. Fish grow quickly in summer and provide good sport for both shore and boat anglers. Tagged fish are present; returning tag details helps Fish & Game monitor the population.
Effective methods include trolling or harling from a small boat with spinners, and fly fishing with patterns such as pheasant tail nymphs, Hamill’s killer, or red setter. Shore anglers can spin at deeper access points. A valid Fish & Game licence is required. Stay clear of monitoring buoys to avoid damaging equipment.
Walking Tracks and Trails
The Tūtira Walkway offers two loop options from the lake: a shorter route via Kahikanui Track and a longer loop via Galbraith’s Track. Both ascend to Table Mountain Trig, providing views of the Kaweka and Maungaharuru Ranges plus coastal Hawke’s Bay. Facilities including shelter, picnic areas, and toilets are available at the lake end.
The Waikōpirō Loop Track is a short, flat family-friendly walk around Lake Waikōpirō that passes native and introduced plants. It is suitable for all ages and offers good wildlife viewing opportunities. All tracks are accessed via the regional park entrance off SH2.
Camping, Picnicking and Boating
The DOC-managed Lake Tūtira Campsite at the southern end of the lake is free and open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. It includes a picnic shelter and toilets. A separate Hawke’s Bay Regional Council campground nearby requires booking and charges fees; it closes from July to September.
Non-motorised boating is permitted, making the lake suitable for kayaking, sailing, and rowing. Swimming is possible but visitors should heed any algal bloom warnings. Fires are not allowed at the campsite.
What Visitors Often Say
Anglers praise the accessible shoreline spots and consistent trout catches, noting the peaceful setting away from crowds. Many combine fishing with a short walk or picnic.
Families and walkers enjoy the easy tracks and lake views, describing the area as a convenient stop for a relaxed day out with good facilities for children.
Where to Learn More
Fish & Game New Zealand: Current fishing regulations, access details, and stocking information for Lake Tūtira.
Department of Conservation: Campsite information, track descriptions, and access guidance for the Tūtira area.
Hawke’s Bay Regional Council: Details on Tūtira Regional Park facilities, bookings, and management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing licence for Lake Tūtira?
Yes, a current Fish & Game New Zealand licence is required for all anglers.
Can I use a motorboat on the lake?
No, motorised craft are prohibited to protect against the spread of invasive aquatic weeds.
Is camping free at Lake Tūtira?
The DOC campsite is free and open year-round. The nearby HBRC campground requires booking and fees.
What are the best walking options?
The Tūtira Walkway offers short and long loops to Table Mountain Trig. The Waikōpirō Loop Track is a short, flat family option.
Are dogs allowed?
No, dogs are not permitted due to the wildlife reserve status of the area.
When is the best time for trout fishing?
Fishing is productive year-round, with good opportunities during the cooler months and leading into the spawning season.
Is swimming safe?
Swimming is possible but check for current algal bloom advisories before entering the water.
How do I get to Lake Tūtira?
Travel north on State Highway 2 from Napier (about 31–40 km). Turn into the regional park entrance; tracks and camping are signposted.
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