Our beautiful lakes offer several great places to have a swim. Before you go, check that it's safe to swim on the Land, Air, Water Aotearoa (LAWA) - Can I swim here? page. You'll find information on water quality to help you decide where to go. Always check any signs posted at the lakes before you jump in.
In summer, some of our lakes can be prone to toxic algal blooms. This blue-green algae can cause health issues in adults, children and dogs - so keep out if there's a warning, and always look before you leap.
Avoid any recreational contact with lakes and rivers if they:
look discoloured
have an unusual smell
have green or brown particles suspended in them, or
have scum or leathery mats of algae on the surface or on the bottom of the waterway, or along the shoreline.
Under the Bay of Plenty Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP), if you are using a public boat ramp you must certify that your craft (boat, jet ski, kayak) and trailer is free from freshwater pests. You can help us stop the spread of freshwater gold clams by using the Check, Clean, Dry guidelines.
You can use the Environmental Data Portal on the Bay of Plenty Regional Council website to view an up-to-date map of Rotorua lakes and their level status.
