Lake Okataina Scenic Reserve
Alerts
Boundaries are approximate and not suitable for accurate boundary definition. Check current DOC permit conditions before hunting. Data retrieved 31 July 2026 and may now be out of date.
Deer - Red, Pigs, Wallabies
A permit is required to hunt on public conservation land.
This hunting area is covered by an 'open area permit' – get it online.
Hunting is not allowed during the months of December and January, each summer.
Hunting is not allowed on or within 100 m of any DOC walking track.
Hunting is not allowed from Ruato Bay (Lake Rotoiti) to the Lodge at Lake Ōkataina (see permit map).
No dogs
About this hunting block
A 3,279 hectare hunting area in the Rotorua Lakes district.
Whilst there are walking tracks on both eastern and western sides of the lake, the use of a boat makes more areas accessible.
Terrain
Tawa podocarp forest. Moderate to steep. There is extensive supple jack in places.
Access
Access off Millar Road, Lake Okareka or Lake Ōkataina Road, turning off State Highway 30 at Ruato Bay, Lake Rotoiti. Or boat across Lake Tarawera to Humphries Bay and walk over the Isthmus Track.
Permits
Contact the Rotorua DOC office to obtain a wallaby hunting permit.
Landowners
Boundaries are largely undefined. Hunters must be aware of reserve boundaires.
Maps
BE37 and BE38
Huts
There are no DOC huts in this hunting area. The nearest DOC campsite is Humphries Bay Campsite on Lake Tarawera, which is 20 min over the Isthmus Track from the south eastern end of Lake Ōkataina.
Know before you go
The Western Ōkataina Walkway is a dual use track (walkers and mountain bikes). Expect mountain bikers and walkers in this area.
Weather
Forecast near the middle of the block