News

New automated gate for accessing Lake Ōkataina now operational

19 March 2025

From today, Wednesday 19 March, the new automated boat ramp gate provides an efficient way for boaties who have completed Check Clean Dry procedures to access Lake Ōkataina.  

At the wash station, boaties need to:

• Wash down the boat and trailer, and drain any remaining water.
• Scan the QR code in the wash bay using a phone camera, which will take you to an online form.
• Fill out and submit the form while at The Wash Place to receive the PIN access codes for the Lake Ōkataina boat ramp gate (this area is geo-fenced).
• Use the first 4-digit PIN received by email and text to open the gate at the boat ramp.
• Use the second PIN when exiting the lake.

Please note - There is no overnight parking or camping allowed at the Lake Ōkataina scenic reserve. 

Local iwi Ngāti Tarāwhai has successfully managed user access to the boat ramp since 2023 and the new process means that they will no longer need to be present to approve access to the lake. 

The automated gate project has been led by Bay of Plenty Regional Council and funded by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Rotorua Lakes District Council and the Ministry for Primary Industries.  

Find out about the new process and the frequently asked questions here