The Utuhina Stream runs along the Ohinemutu village into Lake Rotorua. The location was chosen mainly for its abundance of geothermal energy, which is used for heating, bathing and cooking as well as the proximity to the Rotorua Lake and Utuhina River.

Lake Rotorua is the largest, shallowest lakes in the region. The lake was formed when a large volcano in the Taupo Volcanic Zone erupted and collapsed over 240,000 years ago. The area remains one of the most active geothermal regions in the world. The high sulphur content of the lake is responsible for the smell and yellowish-green hue of the lake.

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

More Information

• Swim Guide - Weather and water quality for Utuhina Stream at Lake Road and 8,000 other beaches.