Hinehopu is one of two main beach areas on Lake Rotoiti. Boats are not permitted near the shores of Ruato Bay during the summer months beach making it ideal for family swims. There is a water-ski lane, although waterskiing is permitted during December and February only. Picnic tables, coin bbq's, a children's playground and public toilets are located at the beach. The Department of Conservation maintains the reserve and walking track that connects Lakes Rotoiti and Rotoehu.

The area is named after Hinehopu, a Maori chieftainess that lived here in the 1600s. Legend says that as a baby her mother, Hinetamairu, hid her from an oncoming war party under a matai tree. Hinehopu later met her future husband, Pikiao, under the same tree while travelling this route between her two homes on the lakes. They became the ancestors of the Ngati Pikiao iwi and the tree is considered to be tapu (sacred). It is known as Te Rakau tipua o Hinehopu or the Wishing Tree.

The description above was copied from or heavily based on Swim Guide, with permission.

More Information

• Swim Guide - Weather and water quality for Lake Rotoiti at Hinehopu and 8,000 other beaches.