One of three dune lakes in the Mangawhai Forest, Tomarata Lake is a secluded, peaceful and very beautiful spot, situated between rolling hills and forestry.

It's just a short distance from Te Arai Point and it's a favourite summertime boating and water skiing destination (there's a boat ramp for easy launching) as well as swimming, jet skiing, kayaking and paddleboarding. 

There's plenty of parking, public toilets and a changing room and excellent picnic spots.

A walk way around the lake is a great place to stretch your legs and one track will take you all the way to Te Arai.

Getting there

Allow about 30 minutes drive from Wellsford town, because the route involves metal roads. Turn right off State Highway 1 into Mangawhai Road, then right on to School Road which then becomes Oceanview Road.   Atkins Road is off to the right, drive 1.5km then turn right to Tomarata Lake.