The area includes steep forestry land where dogs have been regularly rescued.[2] The settlement is surrounded on three sides by small streams which eventually flow into the Mohaka River 3.5 kilometres (2.2 mi) to the northeast of Kotemaori.
A rail line, part of the Palmerston North–Gisborne Line, lies close to the settlement, which was formerly served by Kotemaori railway station. The part of the line between Napier and Gisborne was effectively mothballed in 2012. In June 2019 the line reopened for freight-only traffic, specifically the transportation of logs from forestry sites around Wairoa to the port at Napier.[3] The line has been closed since 14 February 2023 due to damage from Cyclone Gabrielle.
Education
Kotemaori School is a Year 1–8 co-educational state primary school.[4] It is a decile 4 school with a roll of 15 as of August 2024.[5][6]
