Lake Okataina Access Update

A new automated gate is being installed at Lake Okataina. It is currently in testing but should be up and running by February 29th. You can still access the lake now, The idea of the gate is to make access simpler for users and not restricted to specific times of the day.

The MPI Controlled Area Notice is still in place for Lake Okataina meaning boaties still need to wash their boats at The Wash Place, 338 Te Ngae Rd, Rotorua. Once this has been completed, users should scan the QR code at the wash station and fill out the online form while you are there. You will then receive a unique 4-digit PIN number sent to your phone and email. This number can be punched into a keypad at the lake which opens the automated gate. The PIN is unique and can be used only twice, once as you access the lake, and once as you leave. Sensors prevent the gate from closing while you are at the ramp.

If you have issues you can call the Bay of Plenty Regional Council Contact Centre, 0800 884 880 or enquire at the Okataina Lodge. They will be able to provide access, as long as the washing/scanning requirements have been completed.

Updated information on the gate can be found at https://www.rotorualakes.co.nz/freshwater-gold-clam

Biosecurity New Zealand and partners, iwi and other stakeholders have worked to contain Freshwater Gold Clam (Corbicula) to known locations in the Waikato River catchment area.

Frequently asked questions

What is the new process?

• Go to The Wash Place (338 Te Ngae Road), wash as per instructions at the site.
• Scan the QR code in the wash bay, fill out the online form and submit it while at the site.
• To receive the PIN access code for the boat ramp gate you must submit the form at The Wash Place, as the area is geo-fenced.
• A unique four-digit PIN will be sent to users via text or email once the form has been submitted. This will ensure you have your PIN while still in good mobile reception
• Lake users can use the PIN code to open the gate at Lake Ōkataina, and again when exiting the lake.

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

If the PIN fails to open the gate they can call Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council Contact Centre, 0800 884 880 or enquiry at Lakes Lodge Ōkataina.

How do I open the gate?

Use the PIN to open the gate. There are sensors to ensure the gate doesn’t close during launching. As soon as the vehicle exits the boat ramp area, the gate will automatically close. A camera has been installed at boat ramp to monitor activity.

Are there any restrictions on what phone I can use to complete the online form or receive the PIN?

If your phone can access the internet, you should be able to complete the form and submit it in order to receive the PIN.

Can I use the PIN more than once?

The PIN is unique and can be used for one boat entry and one exit only. It is used twice – to launch a vessel and on exit of the lake.

Is there mobile reception at the boat ramp?

There is full mobile reception for most service providers.

How will the public be notified when the gate arm is operational?

Details of the latest status can be found on the Rotorua Lakes Programme website, on partner websites and social media channels. 

What happens if the code doesn’t work?

If the PIN fails to open the gate they can call Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council Contact Centre, 0800 884 880 or enquiry at Lakes Lodge Ōkataina. The contact will be able to provide access, if requirements have been completed. 

Do I need to do the Bay of Plenty Regional Council certification as well?

No. Completion of the online form at The Wash Place also satisfies the terms of the Regional Pest Management Plan rule 7.

Is the CAN being changed and how?

Yes the CAN is being updated to reflect the process to use once the automatic gate is operating.

Lake Ōkataina CAN rules and process (Biosecurity New Zealand website)

All boats must be cleaned at the designated wash station in Rotorua before entering the lake. This is in addition to Check-Clean-Dry requirements.

The wash station is at The Wash Place, 338 Te Ngae Road, Rotorua.

At the wash station, boaties need to:

• Wash down the boat and trailer, and drain any remaining water
• Scan the QR code shown on the wash bay signs and complete the online form that opens on their mobile device.
• Submit the online form before leaving The Wash Place (the area is geo-fenced), to ensure they receive their unique four-digit PIN for access at the Lake Ōkataina boat ramp gate.

The Wash Place is a commercial facility and there will be a cost for washing your boat and trailer. You can pay with cards or coins.

The station is open 24/7 and instructions about how to complete the wash are provided in signage.  

How is the new process different to the current process?

Once you have completed cleaning at The Wash Place you must submit the form before you leave to receive your unique PIN access code.  On arrival at the Lake Ōkataina gate arm enter the access code to gain entry. You will use the same number at the gate to exit the lake.

Previously, lake users either showed a video of their wash process or their online form in person at the boat ramp to gain access.