Your Epic Guide to the Best Waterfalls, New Zealand: Bay of Plenty Edition
Here is the fourth edition of my epic guide to the best waterfalls in New Zealand – specifically written for the Bay of Plenty Region. Bay of Plenty has it all going on! Geothermal wonders, exciting towns and cities, and thousands of hectares of ancient forest. Read on for all you need to know about visiting these twenty gorgeous waterfalls in the Bay of Plenty.
Tauranga & Surrounds
The beauty of these five waterfalls are that they are all completely do-able as a half-day or full-day excursion from Tauranga, one of our port cities. You do not have to trek far to discover these little gems, but you will be rewarded richly.
1. McLaren Falls
General Location: McLaren Falls sit out in the Bay of Plenty, which is a region on the right hand side of the North Island of New Zealand. They’re in the Kaimai Ranges (the lower part). Nearest Civilisation: McLaren Falls are just on the outskirts of the city of Tauranga, an 18 minute drive away (19 kilometres, or 12 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: McLaren Falls are part of McLaren Falls Park, which also contains Lake McLaren. The Falls are part of the Wairoa River. Waterfall Height: McLaren Falls are 5 metres tall.
Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view McLaren Falls from the pedestrian bridge above or from in the pool from down below. There are lots of rocks to clamber over and lots of different cascades, as this waterfall is segmented. Waterfall Name: McLaren Falls was named by the electrical engineer who worked on the power station next to it in the 1920’s. His neighbour, McLaren, had lost his son in the war, so the name was to honour the family.
Getting There: You can take the McLaren Falls Waterfall Loop Track to McLaren Falls, or just the Waterfall Track. Track Distance: The Waterfall Track is just a little 800 metre mini loop (or half a mile). Walk Time: The Waterfall Track is a 20 minute walk and the bigger loop is an hour and a quarter.
Swimming: Locals love the pool at McLaren Falls; it’s a great place to swim. Dogs: Dogs are not allowed at McLaren Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: The 20 minute Waterfall Track is wheelchair and pram accessible.
Go, Because: Go, because there is more to McLaren Falls Park than just the waterfall! There is the lake, multiple walking tracks, and a café. Something Extra: There’s actually glow worms in the park and options for guided night time kayaking trips to go see them, how cool does that sound?! Last Updated: October, 2024.
2. Ōmanawa Falls
General Location: Down near the bottom of the Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park (which contains many waterfalls, including seven in the Waikato Region) lies Ōmanawa Falls. Nearest Civilisation: It’s the city of Tauranga, a 20 minute drive away (22 kilometres, 14 miles). Immediate Surroundings: Ōmanawa Falls is on the Ōmanawa River.
Waterfall Height: Ōmanawa Falls is 35 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: There are three viewing platforms for Ōmanawa Falls (Wairere Tapu Lookout, Te Tae Ōmanawa Lookout, and Te Harikoa Lookout). Waterfall Name: Ōmanawa Falls is named for the Ōmanawa River.
Getting There: As of December 2023, there is once again access permitted to Ōmanawa Falls. It had been closed for a few years due to the hazards of people trying to access behind the Falls and get down to the water by scaling the cliffs, and there were a couple of fatalities and incidents of people needing to be rescued. New walking and viewing platforms (you’ll take the Te Harikoa Track), several hundred stairs and reinforcements in the cliffs have been installed so that visitors can now appreciate Ōmanawa Falls in safety.
Track Distance: The full thing is 1.07 kilometres (or 0.6 miles). Walk Time: Allow an hour and twenty minutes to go to all three viewing platforms and back to the carpark (or just twenty minutes return to go to the first lookout). Swimming: Once a popular swimming spot, it is now banned, partly for cultural sensitivity reasons (the waterfall and surrounds are sacred to Māori) and partly for the safety of the public.
Dogs: Dogs are not allowed at Ōmanawa Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: There are 750 stairs between the second and third lookouts so it is not accessible for wheelchair and pram users. Go, Because: Go, because the pool below the Falls is crystal clear and has always been popular with locals and visitors alike. It’s incredibly beautiful.
Something Extra: Although you cannot swim at Ōmanawa Falls anymore, it’s not far from McLaren Falls, which is an excellent spot for swimming, so that’s your something extra! Last Updated: October, 2024.
3. Kaiate Falls / Te Rerekawau
General Location: Kaiate Falls sits on the outskirts of Tauranga, the region’s biggest city. It’s a port city, out on the east coast of the North Island, but the Falls are a little bit inland. Nearest Civilisation: It’s a 23 minute drive between the city of Tauranga and Kaiate Falls (18 kilometres, or 12 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: Kaiate Falls sits on the Kaiate Stream. Waterfall Height: Kaiate Falls are 15 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s a view of the upper Kaiate Falls and one of the lower Kaiate Falls.
Waterfall Name: The name translates to ‘rattling noise.’ Getting There: Take the Kaiate Falls Track – a loop track. Track Distance: It’s 2 kilometres to do the Kaiate Falls Track loop (1.2 miles).
Walk Time: Expect to take an hour getting to and from Kaiate Falls. Swimming: Kaiate Falls tumbles down into beautiful clear pools, but currently, the water quality makes it unsuitable for swimming (there is a risk of illness) and there are recommendations to stay out. Dogs: Dogs are allowed at Kaiate Falls, on a a leash.
Wheelchairs and Prams: The track to Kaiate Falls involves a lot of steps so is not suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because this is yet another waterfall that makes for an easy half day excursion from Tauranga. Something Extra: See if you can spot Mount Maunganui on the coast, at the high point of the track (which is in your first two minutes before the track descends). Last Updated: October, 2024.
4. Raparapahoe Falls
General Location: Raparapahoe Falls sits out near the east coast of the North Island, near the top of the Bay of Plenty Region. Nearest Civilisation: You might see websites saying Raparapahoe Falls is in Te Puke, and that’s because they are a ten minute drive (8 kilometres, 5 miles) from this little town famous for its giant kiwi fruit sculpture. And it’s still only a half hour drive (30 kilometres, 19 miles) from Tauranga.
Immediate Surroundings: Raparapahoe Falls sits on the Raparapahoe Stream. Waterfall Height: Raparapahoe Falls is 3 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view Raparapahoe Falls from across the pool at the bottom.
Getting There: Take the Raparapahoe Falls Track to Raparapahoe Falls. Track Distance: It’s a kilometre (0.6 miles) in and out of Raparapahoe Falls. Walk Time: It’s half an hour to Raparapahoe Falls and back.
Swimming: There’s a beautiful, clear pool to swim in at Raparapahoe Falls. Dogs: Yes, dogs can visit Raparapahoe Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: The track to Raparapahoe Falls is steep and therefore unsuitable for wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because the pool at Raparapahoe Falls is a large one so it’s a good swimming spot.
Something Extra: Go and see the famous giant kiwi fruit in the town of Te Puke! Last Updated: October, 2024.
5. Whataroa Falls, Ōtanewainuku Forest
General Location: Whataroa Falls is within the Ōtanewainuku Forest, located between the cities of Tauranga and Rotorua in the Bay of Plenty Region. Nearest Civilisation: It’s a half hour drive between the city of Tauranga and Whataroa Falls (31 kilometres, or 19 miles), but it’s less than hour from the city of Rotorua (arguably New Zealand’s tourism capital) in the other direction (50 minutes drive, 47 kilometres, 29 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: Whataroa Falls sits on the Whataroa Stream. Waterfall Height: Whataroa Falls is 15 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s at least four waterfalls here but the viewpoint is at the base of the upper Whataroa Falls. It’s tricky work to get to the second and even trickier to get to the third.
Getting There: You’ll take the Whataroa Falls Track to Whataroa Falls, but you’ll start on the Ōtanewainuku Rimu Loop Walk for the first 800 metres. Track Distance: It’s 5.5 kilometres (3.5 miles) all up. Walk Time: It’s a 2 hour return walk to and from Whataroa Falls.
Swimming: Swimming is popular at Whataroa Falls; it has a deep pool. Dogs: Dogs are not permitted at Whataroa Falls as kiwi live in the forest. Wheelchairs and Prams: Whataroa Falls is not suitable for wheelchairs or prams.
Go, Because: Go, because what a way to get into the Ōtanewainuku Forest! It’s full of native species and wildlife and has not been logged like some of our other forests have been. Something Extra: If you’ve got a spare hour and a half, head up Mount Ōtanewainuku – the trailhead is over the road and the views from the top are quite something. Last Updated: October, 2024.
Rotorua & Surrounds
Rotorua is equally, if not more, blessed than Tauranga when it comes to local waterfalls. These eight are all in close proximity to this special city. The area promises a lot to domestic and international visitors alike and is one of our most frequented tourist hotspots. There’s a good reason for that; there is so much to do, and while a lot of that is adventure tourism, there’s always a time and place for waterfall hunting!
6. Kaituna Falls / Trout Pool Falls, Kaituna River
General Location: Okay, now we’ve jumped down to the Kaituna River, which flows right into Lake Rotoiti, the first in a chain of lakes on the western side of the Bay of Plenty. Nearest Civilisation: Kaituna Falls is just across Lake Rotorua from the tourism hub of Rotorua. It’s a 25 minute drive around Lake Rotorua to Kaituna Falls (22 kilometres, or 14 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: Kaituna Falls is one of three on the Kaituna River, a popular river with white water rafters and white water sledgers. It gets confused with Tutea Falls downriver, which is the famous drop the rafts go over. Waterfall Height: Kaituna Falls is 5 metres tall.
Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s a great lookout not far from the carpark. Waterfall Name: Kaituna Falls and Trout Pool Falls are used interchangeably for the same waterfall. Sometimes you may find Kaituna Falls referring to all three on the Kaituna River collectively.
Getting There: The Ōkere Falls Track runs from Trout Pools Reserve up where Kaituna Falls is, right down to Ōkere Falls Scenic Reserve where Ōkere Falls is, so it’s the Ōkere Falls Track, don’t let the name confuse you. Track Distance: The full Ōkere Falls Track is 1.2 kilometres (three quarters of a mile) but this waterfall is visible within the first couple of hundred metres.
Walk Time: Kaituna Falls is 2 minutes from the Trout Pools Reserve carpark – and 2 minutes back again. Swimming: The Kaituna River is best experienced by watercraft – there are strong currents and lots of water traffic that comes through. Dogs: Dogs are not permitted at Kaituna Falls.
Wheelchairs and Prams: It’s a fairly accessible track but those who have been with wheelchairs and prams say that they have struggled. Go, Because: Go, because the walk is an exciting one, allowing you glimpses of all the rafters and kayakers tackling the white water. Something Extra: Take a fishing rod – the Kaituna River, and the Trout Pool specifically, is an amazing place for trout fishing. Last Updated: October, 2024.
7. Tutea Falls, Kaituna River
General Location: Tutea Falls flows right into Lake Rotoiti, one of several lakes on the western side of the Bay of Plenty. Nearest Civilisation: Tutea Falls is across the lake from Rotorua. It’s a 25 minute drive around Lake Rotorua to Kaituna Falls (21 kilometres, or 13 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: Tutea Falls sits on the Kaituna River, just before the Ōkere Inlet of Lake Rotoiti. Waterfall Height: Tutea Falls is 7 metres tall – the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world!! Waterfall Viewpoints: You can stop at the Tutea Falls Lookout and wait for one of the many rafts or kayaks on the river to pop over the top!
Getting There: The Ōkere Falls Track takes you from Trout Pools Reserve up where Kaituna Falls is, right down to Ōkere Falls Scenic Reserve where Ōkere Falls is. Track Distance: The full Ōkere Falls Track is 1.2 kilometres (three quarters of a mile) and Tutea Falls is about halfway along.
Walk Time: On the same track as the one above, that is, Ōkere Falls Track, Tutea Falls is 15 minutes from the Trout Pools Reserve carpark, and 15 minutes back. It would be about 20 minutes from the other end, the carpark at Ōkere Falls Scenic Reserve. Swimming: Don’t swim! The river is a strong one and lots of boats come through these rapids.
Dogs: Dogs are not permitted at Tutea Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: While the track is advertised as fairly accessible track, those who have been with wheelchairs and prams disagree. Go, Because: Go, because Tutea Falls provides quite a bit of entertainment – a decent amount of the rafts that come over so not land the jump.
Something Extra: Instead of seeing the Falls from the lookout, why not raft over them?! I’ve done it (and stayed afloat!) and what a thing to say, that you’ve rafted over the world’s tallest commercially rafted waterfall! Last Updated: October, 2024.
8. Ōkere Falls, Kaituna River
General Location: Ōkere Falls flows right into the Ōkere Inlet and then Lake Rotoiti, one of the lakes near Rotorua. Nearest Civilisation: Kaituna Falls is just across Lake Rotorua from the tourism hub of Rotorua. It’s a 23 minute drive around Lake Rotorua to Kaituna Falls (21 kilometres, or 13 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: Ōkere Falls is one of three on the Kaituna River. It’s in the Ōkere Falls Scenic Reserve and is where the river becomes the Ōkere Inlet. Waterfall Height: Ōkere Falls is 5 metres tall.
Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s a great lookout over Ōkere Falls. Waterfall Name: Ōkere Falls is named for the Ōkere Inlet. Sometimes the river is called the Ōkere River, which means ‘the place of drifting’.
Getting There: Take the Ōkere Falls Track to Ōkere Falls. It connects Trout Pools Reserve, which is up where Kaituna Falls is and Ōkere Falls Scenic Reserve, which is down where Ōkere Falls is. Track Distance: The full Ōkere Falls Track is 1.2 kilometres (three quarters of a mile) – but just a few hundred metres if you come from the bottom end.
Walk Time: On the same track as the one mentioned above, you can continue on 15 minutes more to Ōkere Falls (that’s half an hour from the Trout Pools Reserve carpark, and half an hour back again). Alternatively, it’s five minutes from the Ōkere Falls Scenic Reserve end of the track (and another carpark) so you could also just do a ten minute return walk from the other end!
Swimming: This is not a suitable swimming spot as the currents are rafted by quite a lot of watercraft. Dogs: Dogs are not permitted at Ōkere Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: Supposedly the track is wheel friendly but there is also information to suggest otherwise, as there are tree roots and a couple of steps.
Go, Because: Go, because there are three amazing waterfalls to see on this stretch of the river so the walk is well worth your time. Something Extra: Stop at the Ōkere Falls Store beer garden for a pint – or, if it’s October, you might be in time for the beer festival they have there. Last Updated: October, 2024.
9. Kākahi Falls, Hell’s Gate Thermal Park
General Location: Between Lake Rotorua and Lake Rotoiti (two of several in the Rotorua Lakes District), is a steaming little treasure, Kākahi Falls. Nearest Civilisation: Kākahi Falls is a 20 minute drive from the geothermal city of Rotorua (17 kilometres, or 10 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: Kākahi Falls is part of a tourist attraction, the Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve, so you pay to go in. Waterfall Height: Kākahi Falls is 12 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one!
Waterfall Name: Their full name is Te Mimi O Te Kākahi, meaning ‘Kākahi’s Urine’. Kākahi was a legendary warrior and when other warriors washed off in the waterfall after a battle they noticed how quickly their wounds would heal, so they supposed it was the sulphur doing it, which they knew was also present in urine, and therefore the waterfall was given the name of Kākahi’s Urine.
Getting There: You’ll reach Kākahi Falls along the pathways that weave through the geothermal reserve, (Hell’s Gate Geothermal Walk) which is $45NZD 🇳🇿 ($28USD 🇺🇸) to enter, and a bit more to bathe. Track Distance: The full loop through all 21 geothermal wonders in the reserve is 2 kilometres (1.2 miles), but you’ll see Kākahi Falls about a quarter of your way around.
Walk Time: Allow an hour to walk around the reserve and probably only a quarter of that to get to the Falls, but you’ll want to stop and take your time, too. Swimming: While I don’t believe you can bathe in Kākahi Falls itself (which runs at 40 degrees Celsius), you can bathe in some of the geothermal mud pools in the park, a truly unique New Zealand bucket list item.
Dogs: Dogs cannot visit Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve. Wheelchairs and Prams: It’s wheelchair accessible in Hell’s Gate, but the paths are stone, so perhaps best for a wheelchair made for off-road terrain. Go, Because: Kākahi Falls is the largest hot waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere!
Something Extra: Consider paying the $90NZD 🇳🇿 ($53USD 🇺🇸) to bathe in some of the mud pools – if you’re combining that with the walking pass it’ll instead be an extra $70NZD 🇳🇿 ($43USD 🇺🇸), totalling $115NZD 🇳🇿 ($70USD 🇺🇸). Last Updated: October, 2024.
10. Wairere Falls / Te Wairoa Falls, Buried Village of Te Wairoa Archaeological Site
General Location: Te Wairoa Falls is tucked away into the Rotorua Lake District in an inland part of the Bay of Plenty Region. Nearest Civilisation: The waterfall is closest to the tourism hub of Rotorua, a 20 minute drive out (16 kilometres, or 10 miles). Immediate Surroundings: Wairere Falls is actually part of the Buried Village Of Te Wairoa, an archaeological site and now tourist attraction near Rotorua which documents the events of the Mount Tarawera eruption in 1886.
Waterfall Height: Te Wairoa Falls is 30 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one! Waterfall Name: Don’t confuse this waterfall with the 153 metre tall Wairere Falls in Waikato, or Wairoa Falls in the Hunua Ranges. It’s also not Te Wairere Waterfall otherwise known as Wairoa Stream Waterfall – that’s in the Bay of Islands.
Getting There: You’ll need admission to the Buried Village, which will cost you up to $32NZD 🇳🇿 ($19USD 🇺🇸). Track Distance: You’ll walk one kilometre (half a mile) around the village. Walk Time: It’s a 40 minute return walk to Te Wairoa Falls.
Swimming: There is no swimming allowed here. Dogs: You cannot bring dogs to the Buried Village. Wheelchairs and Prams: The majority of the Buried Village is wheelchair accessible .. except for the walk to the waterfall, unfortunately.
Go, Because: Go, because you’ll also get a history lesson on what existed here before the eruption and what happened on that night. Something Extra: Make sure to explore the rest of the village, not just the waterfall! Last Updated: October, 2024.
11. Tarawera Falls
General Location: Tarawera Falls are located near the eastern end of Lake Tarawera, one of several in the Rotorua Lakes District. Nearest Civilisation: As the crow flies, Tarawera Falls is not that far from Rotorua, but you have to skirt around the Rotoiti Forest and double back, so it’s an hour and a quarter drive (75 kilometres or 47 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: Tarawera Falls is on the Tarawera River, that flows into Lake Tarawera, shadowed by Mount Tarawera – the one that erupted in 1886 (they could see the sky glowing from China). Waterfall Height: Tarawera Falls is 65 metres tall.
Waterfall Viewpoints: The track will show you Tarawera Falls from up top. Waterfall Name: Tarawera means ‘burnt peaks’ in Māori. The Falls are named for the river, named, I imagine, for the mountain.
Getting There: You’ll need a Tarawera Forest access permit, which is $10NZD 🇳🇿 ($6USD 🇺🇸) per vehicle and available from the Kawerau i-Site information centre only. Once in there, you’ll take the Tarawera Falls Track. It’s only accessible on weekends and the gate is closed at night so you’ll need to keep an eye on the time.
Track Distance: The Tarawera Falls Track is just 700 metres in and 700 metres out. Walk Time: It’s 20 minutes to Tarawera Falls and 20 minutes back.
Swimming: Rather than swim at the actual Falls, it is safer to take the track beyond the Falls that leads to the lake. There’s a recommended swimming hole on that track with two rope swings, and crystal clear turquoise water. The current is strong regardless of where you are in river, so be extremely careful when swimming and heed any warning signs – the river goes underground in parts and you do not want to be in it when it does under.
Dogs: Dogs are not allowed at Tarawera Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: Because of tree roots and rocks, the Tarawera Falls Track is not suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because, in the right places, the swimming is unreal – the colour and clarity of the water make it a very special place. The Falls themselves burst out of a crack in the rock face so are very impressive.
Something Extra: Tackle the two hour walk down to the Tarawera Outlet if you have the time (it’s another two hours to return, nearly 11 kilometres all up). You’ll see the Tarawera Cascades and find that awesome swimming spot. Last Updated: October, 2024.
12. Lake Ngakoro Waterfall, Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland Park
General Location: Lake Ngakoro Waterfall is located within the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland Park, tucked away down the western boundary of the Bay of Plenty Region. (To be technical, it’s just over the line and therefore in the Waikato Region, but I’ve grouped it with the other waterfalls that are in the outskirts of Rotorua).
Nearest Civilisation: Lake Ngakoro Waterfall is closest to the city of Rotorua, a 24 minute drive (29 kilometres, or 18 miles). Immediate Surroundings: Lake Ngakoro Waterfall is on Lake Ngakoro, and part of the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland tourist attraction. Waterfall Height: Lake Ngakoro Waterfall is only about 2 metres tall.
Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one! Waterfall Name: The waterfall is named for the lake it flows into. Getting There: You’ll need to enter via the reception at the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and pay your $45NZD 🇳🇿 ($27USD 🇺🇸) admission. Then, walk the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland Loop to Lake Ngakoro Waterfall.
Track Distance: The Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland Loop is 3 kilometres (or 2 miles). Walk Time: The return walk to Lake Ngakoro Waterfall is an hour and a quarter. Swimming: Due to the temperature of the water, this is not a safe place to swim and it is not permitted in the park.
Dogs: Dogs are not permitted at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderpark. Wheelchairs and Prams: Most of the park is wheel friendly, with boardwalks and viewing platforms for the different geothermal attractions. Go, Because: Go, because not only can you see Lake Ngakoro Waterfall, but all these geysers and bubbling mud pools, too!
Something Extra: Make sure to visit the mud pool – it’s the largest in New Zealand, and if you time your visit right, you can see the workers simulate an eruption from the Lady Knox Geyser every day at 10.15am! Last Updated: October, 2024.
13. Kerosene Creek Waterfall
General Location: Kerosene Creek Waterfall is out the back of Rotorua, in the western Bay of Plenty Region. Nearest Civilisation: It’s a 23 minute drive between Rotorua and Kerosene Creek Waterfall (27 kilometres, 17 miles). Immediate Surroundings: Kerosene Creek Waterfall sits on Kerosene Creek, a naturally occurring geothermal river that runs at 35 to 38 degrees Celsius – and has a swimming hole beneath the waterfall.
Waterfall Height: Kerosene Creek Waterfall is just 2 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view the Falls from above, beside, or below, in the water. Waterfall Name: I believe the stream is named Kerosene Creek for its brown colour and how it can look oily (that’s volcanic material though, it’s natural). Don’t let the colour put you off though, the water is lovely!
Getting There: From the carpark there is a little track down to Kerosene Creek. This was once a local secret but is significantly busier these days. Track Distance: It’s only about 500 metres to Kerosene Creek Waterfall.
Walk Time: It’s a 15 minute return walk to and from Kerosene Creek Falls. Swimming: I love a swim at Kerosene Creek! I have been three times. You can swim in the main pool or lie in the creek with the hot water cascading over you. If you dig your toes into the gravel at the bottom, it’s even warmer. Just don’t put your head under.
Dogs: Dogs can visit Kerosene Creek but need to be on a leash. Wheelchairs and Prams: It’s a little track through the bush to Kerosene Creek Falls so is unsuitable for wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: It’s a waterfall and swimming hole, that’s hot, and it’s free! When so many of the soakings experiences in Rotorua are at a cost, take advantage of this free natural spa!
Something Extra: Your something extra is to bring your favourite non-alcoholic drink and find yourself a spot in the stream where you can lean back with your drink and have the warm water wash over you. Bliss! Last Updated: October, 2024.
Whakatāne & Surrounds
Whakatāne is a pretty beautiful coastal town with a lot to offer those after the good life. This next waterfall is virtually in town itself, so no excuses to not visit!
14. Wairere Falls, Whakatāne
General Location: Wairere Falls is out on the eastern coastline of the North Island, in a little town called Whakatāne. Nearest Civilisation: It’s the coastal town of Whakatāne. The waterfall is in town itself!
Immediate Surroundings: Wairere Waterfall is on the Wairere Stream. Waterfall Height: I have failed to find this information for you, however, it’s not a little stream cascade, but quite a tall waterfall indeed. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can see Wairere Waterfall from the carpark, and get a bit closer on the track.
Waterfall Name: Not to be confused with Wairere Falls in the Buried Village of Te Wairoa, or the 153 metre high Wairere Falls in the Waikato Region. Getting There: From the carpark on the outskirts of town there is a short trail to the waterfall. Track Distance: It’s only a few metres to the waterfall.
Walk Time: Wairere Waterfall is a 5 minute return walk. Dogs: Have your dog on a leash at Wairere Waterfall, as it’s on the outskirts of town. Wheelchairs and Prams: Yes, you can see Wairere Waterfall from the carpark!
Go, Because: Go, because if you’re already in town, you’re bound to see it anyway! Something Extra: Why not pay a visit to Ōhope Beach ten minutes drive down the coast to enjoy the fantastic surf? Last Updated: October, 2024.
Taupō & Surrounds
If you’ve made it down to Taupō, there’s a good chance Huka Falls is already on your list .. but do you know about the free hot pool that has its own waterfall?
15. Huka Falls
General Location: Huka Falls is at the bottom of the Bay of Plenty Region, right in the middle of the North Island. Nearest Civilisation: Huka Falls is just on the fringe of Taupō, the town whose namesake is the biggest lake in the country, Lake Taupō. It’s a 7 minute drive out (5 kilometres, 3 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: Huka Falls is on the Waikato River, the longest river in New Zealand. Waterfall Height: Huka Falls is 11 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s one main Huka Falls lookout, to see the water as it barrels over, and there’s the bridge, which is more upriver where you can see the water disappear over the edge.
Waterfall Name: Huka means ‘foam’ in Māori, which is fitting for all the bubbles and spray the Falls generate. Getting There: The track to Huka Falls is the Huka Falls Lookout Walk. Track Distance: It’s only a few hundred metres to see Huka Falls.
Walk Time: You’ll need a quarter of an hour to see Huka Falls, although longer walk options are available. Swimming: You will not be swimming in Huka Falls (although some crazies (read; experts) go over in a white water kayak..!) Dogs: Dogs can visit Huka Falls but need to be on a leash.
Wheelchairs and Prams: The short walk to the lookout is wheelchair and pram friendly. Go, Because: Go, because Huka Falls has 220,000+ litres of water go over the top every second, making it incredibly forceful and powerful – quite a sight (and sound). They are the most visited natural attraction in the country.
Something Extra: Just five minutes drive away is the Craters of the Moon geothermal park and walkway. It’s $10NZD 🇳🇿 ($6USD 🇺🇸) but worth doing to educate yourself on the geothermal activity in the area. Last Updated: October, 2024.
16. Otumuheke Stream, Spa Thermal Park
General Location: Otumuheke Stream sits within the Spa Thermal Park in the centre of the North Island, by Lake Taupō. Nearest Civilisation: Spa Thermal Park is in town, in Taupō itself!
Immediate Surroundings: The waterfall on Otumuheke Stream flows right into the Waikato River. The waterfall runs hot and the temperature cools the further out into the river you go. The waterfall is part of Spa Thermal Park, a popular park for its free geothermal waters.
Waterfall Height: It’s not a big waterfall, just a couple of one-metre-or-less cascades. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view the waterfall from the bridge overhead or from the water itself. There’s a café above and rocks to the side.
Getting There: There’s a signposted ten minute walk from the carpark. Track Distance: It’s half a kilometre to the waterfall, and the same distance back. Walk Time: It’s a ten minute walk to the waterfall, then ten minutes out again.
Swimming: Big yes to swimming! Otumuheke Stream is geothermal so the water is naturally heated! Dogs: Dogs are okay but they need to be on a leash.
Wheelchairs and Prams: If you’re okay wheeling over grass, then wheelchairs and prams can access the waterfall, visible from the bridge above it. Go, Because: Go, because this is a free, naturally occurring spa pool – there’s only a few little gems like this around that you don’t have to pay for!
Something Extra: The Huka Trail links Huka Falls with the Spa Thermal Park – so why not walk from the previously-talked-about Huka Falls, to this last one? Last Updated: October, 2024.
Whirinaki Forest Park
Deep in the heart of the North Island lies Whirinaki Forest Park, Whirinaki te Pua a Tāne. It’s 65,000 hectares of podocarp forest, one of the greatest podocarp forests left remaining in the world. Definitely pay it a visit if you’re heading out the bottom of the Bay of Plenty into Hawkes Bay.
17. Mangamate Waterfall, Whirinaki Forest Park
General Location: Mangamate Waterfall is halfway down the North Island, over to the east, in the Whirinaki Forest Park – that’s between Rotorua, Whakatāne and Gisborne, which is out on the East Cape. Nearest Civilisation: Mangamate Waterfall, looks, on the map, to be the same distance from both Taupō and Rotorua, but because you have to drive there via Waiotapu, Rotorua is definitely the nearest civilisation, an hour and a quarter away (89 kilometres, 55 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: Mangamate Waterfall is part of the Whirinaki Forest Park. Waterfall Height: Mangamate Waterfall is 6 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can see Mangamate Waterfall from the carpark or walk a couple of minutes for a closer look.
Getting There: The waterfall is next to the Mangamate Campground. Track Distance: It’s barely a couple of hundred metres to Mangamate Waterfall. Walk Time: It’s a five minute return walk to Mangamate Waterfall.
Swimming: There’s a big swimming hole at Mangamate Waterfall. Dogs: Dogs will need a permit to be in the forest park. Wheelchairs and Prams: Mangamate Waterfall is a bit remote but if you are already out there, those in wheelchairs and prams can actually see the waterfall from the car.
Go, Because: Mangamate Waterfall has an excellent swimming hole to be enjoyed. Something Extra: Consider spending the night at the campground next door! Last Updated: October, 2024.
18. Waiatiu Falls, Whirinaki Forest Park
General Location: Waiatiu Falls is also halfway down the North Island, in the Whirinaki Forest Park, which is situated in in the middle of Rotorua, Whakatāne and Gisborne, out on the East Cape. Nearest Civilisation: Waiatiu Falls is remote! It’s closest to Rotorua, an hour twenty away, 94 kilometres (58 miles). It’s only fractionally further from Whakatāne.
Immediate Surroundings: Waiatiu Falls is close to the Whirinaki River. Waterfall Height: Waiatiu Falls is 9 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: There is one viewing platform to look out over Waiatiu Falls.
Getting There: Take the Waiatiu Falls Track to Waiatiu Falls. Track Distance: The walk to and from Waiatiu Falls is 3.2 kilometres (2 miles) total. Walk Time: It’s an hour and a quarter to get in and out of Waiatiu Falls.
Swimming: Waiatiu Falls is unsuitable for swimming in. Dogs: Dogs need a permit from the Department of Conservation to be at Waiatiu Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: The track to Waiatiu Falls is not wheelchair or pram friendly.
Go, Because: This is a powerful waterfall well worth a look. Something Extra: There are an abundance of tracks in the forest park – maybe consider one of the multi day tracks to make the most of your time in the forest? Last Updated: October, 2024.
19. Whirinaki Waterfall, Whirinaki Forest Park
General Location: Whirinaki Waterfall, like the previous two, is midway down the North Island, hidden within the Whirinaki Forest Park, which is sort of bang in the middle of Rotorua, Whakatāne and Gisborne out on the East Cape. Nearest Civilisation: It would be Rotorua, because of the way you enter the forest. Rotorua to Whirinaki Waterfall is an hour twenty minutes drive, 94 kilometres (58 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: Whirinaki Waterfall lies on the Whirinaki River. Waterfall Height: Whirinaki Waterfall is 8 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s a bridge from where you can view Whirinaki Waterfall.
Waterfall Name: Whirinaki Waterfall is named for the river and the forest. Getting There: The Whirinaki Waterfall Loop Track will take you to Whirinaki Waterfall. Track Distance: The Whirinaki Waterfall Loop Track is 11 kilometres (7 miles).
Walk Time: The Whirinaki Waterfall Loop Track will take you three and a half hours. Swimming: While you don’t hear of people swimming at the Falls, you may find a section of the river that you feel comfortable having a paddle in. Dogs: Dogs need a permit from the Department of Conservation to be there.
Wheelchairs and Prams: This track is too remote and rugged for wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: The Whirinaki Forest is one of the greatest podocarp forests left on earth. Something Extra: This is the best place to see our native blue duck – see if you can see a whio (blue duck) by the river. Last Updated: October, 2024.
Te Urewera
Flanking the Whirinaki Forest is Te Urewera, a dense wonder-filled rainforest, which is about as wild as they come, and possibly the most rugged place in the North Island. Previously Te Urewera National Park, the forest received environmental personhood in 2014, which gives it legal personhood, and the rights that any legal person has in court. It is the first place in the world to have this status, but it acknowledges the Māori perspective that some places in nature are ancestral, or a guardian or provider of and for the people.
20. Tauwhare Falls, Te Urewera
General Location: Tauwhare Falls lies in Te Urewera, previously one of our national parks, which is situated halfway down the North Island. Nearest Civilisation: Tauwhare Falls is a similar distance from both Whakatāne and Rotorua, but it’s closest to Rotorua, an hour and three quarter’s drive (113 kilometres, 70 miles). Immediate Surroundings: Tauwhare Falls is on the Mangaorongo Stream, I believe.
Waterfall Height: Tauwhare Falls is 41 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s just the one viewpoint, and it’s from the carpark. Waterfall Name: I believe that Tauwhare means ‘overhanging’, which is appropriate.
Getting There: It’s a windy drive on unsealed road to get there, so a 4WD is your best bet. You view this waterfall from the carpark, and you cannot get any closer unfortunately, as there is no trail. Track Distance: There is no trail to Tauwhare Falls.
Walk Time: There is no walking involved for Tauwhare Falls – it is viewed from the carpark. Swimming: There is no access to the Falls to be able to swim there. Dogs: If dogs were to be with you on this road trip, they would need to stay in the car, or outside, on a leash. In most of the forest here they need to have a Department of Conservation permit.
Wheelchairs and Prams: You can view this waterfall from the carpark so it’s technically accessible – a long drive though – you’d have to be passing through to be out this way. Go, Because: Go, because the road through from Rotorua to Hawkes Bay goes right through Te Urewera, which has some spectacular lakes and walks hidden within. Something Extra: Make sure to grab the best photo you can, even with your limited view from the carpark! Last Updated: October, 2024.
That’s a wrap! As you’ve seen, the Bay of Plenty Region is rich in waterfalls, with its abundant rivers, forests and volcanic activity. These waterfalls are each so unique and worth visiting, but hopefully the pockets into which I have grouped them serve you somewhat when planning your next adventure.