Your Epic Guide to the Best Waterfalls, New Zealand: Northland Edition

Here is the first edition of my epic guide to the best waterfalls in New Zealand – specifically written for the Northland region. If you’re a nature lover seeking pristine landscapes and breathtaking cascades, Northland should be on your list. This beautiful region at the northern tip of New Zealand’s North Island has an array of majestic waterfalls waiting to be discovered. Below are fifteen captivating waterfalls in Northland, complete with all the essential details you need to plan your visit. So, from northernmost to southernmost:

The Kauri Coast

When we refer to the Kauri Coast, we are talking about the western side of the Northland region, the northernmost region in the North Island of New Zealand. The Kauri Coast stretches from Brynderwyn, whose hills mark the upper Auckland boundary, right up through Dargaville, Ōpononi, Ahipara, and finishing in Kaitaiā, which is just south of 90 Mile Beach. This coastal stretch is known for its vast forests, its giant Kauri trees, and the beautiful Hokianga Harbour.

1. Waiotemarama Falls

General Location: Right up the top of the North Island, over on the western side at the mouth of the Hokianga Harbour, lies Waiotemarama Falls. Nearest Civilisation: The nearest town is Waimamaku, just an 8 minute drive away (5.4 kilometres, or 3.4 miles). Immediate Surroundings: The Falls are located in the Waima Forest and run out of the Waiotemarama Stream.

Waterfall Height: Waiotemarama Falls are 20 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one! Waterfall Name: Waiotemarama means ‘Water of the Moon’ in Māori!

Getting There: This waterfall is accessed via the Waiotemarama Waterfall Walk. Track Distance: The walk is just 546 metres (0.3 miles). Walk Time: The walk there should only take you 15 minutes, and 15 minutes back.

Swimming: They say the swimming hole is a decent one, so bring swimwear! Dogs: Only dogs with a Department of Conservation permit can be on the track. Wheelchairs and Prams: This track isn’t suitable for wheelchairs and prams.

Go, Because: Go, because this walk will get you right into the forest, which is an essential part of exploring the Kauri Coast! Something Extra: You can continue your walk and take the Hauturu Highpoint Track from the waterfall, but do your research, because it is graded advanced, and it is long. Last Updated: June, 2024.

Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is an extraordinary area on the eastern side of the Northland region, famous for crystal clear water and beautiful sandy beaches – so an excellent summer holiday destination. The area is enclosed by the Cape Brett Peninsula to the south and the Purerua Peninsula to the north, with 800 kilometres (500 miles) of beautiful shoreline in between – and 144 islands, on top of that!! Here are five waterfalls to check out to break up all the ocean swimming with some freshwater dips.

2. Waianiwaniwa Falls / Rainbow Falls, Bay of Islands

General Location: You’ll find Waianiwaniwa Falls right up the top of the North Island, over on the eastern side, in the Bay of Islands, not too far from the Kerikeri Inlet. Nearest Civilisation: The nearest town is Kerikeri (just a 7 minute drive from town, or 4.7 kilometres (2.9 miles). Immediate Surroundings: The Falls are located on the Kerikeri River, which flows out to the inlet.

Waterfall Height: Waianiwaniwa Falls are 27 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view the falls from above as well as below! There are three viewpoints to view it from up top, and to get back up from the bottom, you just have to climb a bit of a hill.

Waterfall Name: Waianiwaniwa means ‘Waters of the Rainbow’ in Māori, so its other name is just Rainbow Falls. Getting There: This waterfall is accessed via the Rainbow Falls Walk. Track Distance: The walk is just 400 metres (0.25 miles).

Walk Time: The walk there should only take you 10 minutes, and 10 minutes back. Swimming: This is a great spot for swimming! Dogs: Dogs are not allowed.

Wheelchairs and Prams: This track is accessible for both. Go, Because: Go, because if you’re very careful, you can hop over the slippery rocks to the base of the falls to get the closest possible perspective, and if you visit in the late afternoon, you might even see the rainbows created by the sunlight refracting in the waterfall’s mist.

Something Extra: Take the Kerikeri River Track/Walkway there instead! You’ll leave from town, instead of driving from town, so it’s 3.5 kilometres (2.1 miles) in, and the same distance out again, a 3 hour walk. The Kerikeri River Track/Walkway is part of the Te Araroa trail (which runs down the whole country, north to south), and it also links the other waterfalls in the area, which you are about to read about. Last Updated: June, 2024.

3. Wharepoke Falls / Wharepuke Falls, Bay of Islands

General Location: You’ll also find Wharepoke Falls right up the top of the North Island, over on the eastern side, in the Bay of Islands, not too far from the Kerikeri Inlet. Nearest Civilisation: The nearest town is Kerikeri – you can walk from town! Immediate Surroundings: The Falls are also located on the Kerikeri River, which flows out to the inlet, but they’re upstream from Waianiwaniwa Falls.

Waterfall Height: Wharepoke Falls are 5 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one! Waterfall Name: Wharepoke Falls is sometimes also written as Wharepuke Falls, but they are one and the same.

Getting There: This waterfall is accessed via the Kerikeri River Track/Walkway, which starts at the Kerikeri Basin Reserve (which is in close proximity to the Kororipo Heritage Park and the Old Stone Store, so don’t get confused reading other websites – it’s basically the same area) and ends at Waianiwaniwa Falls. Track Distance: The walk from the start of the Kerikeri River Track/Walkway to Wharepoke Falls is 1.5 kilometres (0.9 miles), one way. Walk Time: The walk in should take you 20 minutes, and 20 minutes back.

Swimming: The swimming hole here is quite popular! Dogs: Dogs are not allowed on the Kerikeri River Track/Walkway. Wheelchairs and Prams: Stick to the Rainbow Falls Walk, which is shorter and very accessible.

Go, Because: Go, because the swimming hole is a popular one! You’ll also see the remainder of the Kerikeri hydro-electric station, which powered the town in the 1930s. Something Extra: Finish the Kerikeri River Track/Walkway, seeing as you’ve already come a way along it! It continues on from the falls for another 40 minutes (2.6 kilometres, or 1.6 miles) and ends at Rainbow Falls. Last Updated: June, 2024.

4. Charlie’s Rock Waterfall, Bay of Islands

General Location: Charlie’s Rock Waterfall is also in the Bay of Islands, a coastal area on the east coast of Northland region (which is the northernmost region of the North Island). Nearest Civilisation: The nearest town is Kerikeri (just a 7 minute drive from town, or 4.8 kilometres (2.9 miles). Immediate Surroundings: The Falls are also located upstream from Kerikeri Inlet, on the Waipapa Stream.

Waterfall Height: Charlie’s Rock Waterfall is 12 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can access both the top and the bottom of the waterfall. Waterfall Name: Charlie’s Rock Waterfall is named after Charlie’s Rock. But your guess is as good as mine as to who Charlie is!

Getting There: This waterfall is accessed via Charlie’s Rock Walkway. You can park at the Waiapapa Landing Boat Ramp, just out from Kerikeri township. Track Distance: The track is just 550 metres (0.35 miles) in and 550 metres out.

Walk Time: The walk in should take you less than 10 minutes, each way. Swimming: This is a fantastic spot for swimming. You can also jump off some of the rocks into the water, but be safe about it (check the depth, and copy the locals).

Dogs: No dogs, sorry dogs! Wheelchairs and Prams: This one isn’t accessible for wheelchairs and prams, as it’s a dirt track over farmland the gets muddy and rocky.

Go, Because: Go, because this is a great place to cool off in summer! Just beware of currents if you go after a heavy rain. You’ll also pass the historic Kororipo Pā site. This is a place rich in Māori history and European settler history. Something Extra: There are several short walks in the Kororipo Heritage Park, which is so, so close, and a good opportunity to learn more about the history of this place! Last Updated: June, 2024.

5. Te Wairere Waterfall / Wairoa Stream Falls, Bay of Islands

General Location: Te Wairere Waterfall is another gem in the Bay of Islands, which is an area on the east coast of Northland exploding with beautiful sandy shorelines. Nearest Civilisation: The nearest town is Kerikeri – it’s just on the fringe of the township. Immediate Surroundings: The Falls are part of Wairoa Stream, which flows into the Kerikeri Inlet.

Waterfall Height: Te Wairere Waterfall is 20 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: The track will first take you to the top of the falls, and then you have the option of walking another 10 minutes down to the bottom of the falls, but be mindful that it is steep (and you’ve got to get up again!)

Waterfall Name: Te Wairere Waterfall is also known as Wairoa Stream Falls. Not to be confused with Wairere Falls, which is in the Waikato region, or Wairoa Falls, which is in Auckland. Getting There: This waterfall is accessed via the Wairoa Stream Track.

Track Distance: The track is 1.7 kilometres (1 mile) return. Walk Time: It should take you 10 minutes to get to the top of the falls, and just a few more minutes to descend the steps down to the bottom of the falls. Swimming: It would be safe to swim, but it’s a bit shallow, so rather go swimming at Charlie’s Rock.

Dogs: No dogs. Wheelchairs and Prams: The track is unsuitable for wheelchairs and prams because it can be rocky and slippery in places. Go, Because: Go, because this waterfall was blocked off for 60 years, and access was only semi-recently restored, in 2017! And! If you continue on past the falls to the right for another 150 metres and stop before the bridge, you’ll find a secret waterfall that sees even less visitors!

Something Extra: There are options to extend your walk by starting at the Kororipo Heritage Park / Kerkeri Basin / Old Stone Store area, and getting a couple of extra hours walking in. Last Updated: June, 2024.

6. Haruru Falls, Bay of Islands

General Location: Haruru Falls is located in the Bay of Islands, a stunning coastal area on the eastern side of this region. Nearest Civilisation: The nearest civilisation is actually Haruru, but you might recognise Paihia or Waitangi more easily, and they’re not far away. It’s a 7 minute drive from both Paihia or Waitangi to the Falls, or 5 kilometres (3.1 miles).

Immediate Surroundings: The Falls are on the Waitangi River. Waterfall Height: Haruru Falls are 5 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s the initial viewing platform, and then there’s a second spot a little closer to the Falls.

Waterfall Name: In Māori, Haruru means ‘big noise’! Getting There: It’s only a minute’s walk once you’ve parked up at the Haruru Falls Carpark. Track Distance: From the carpark, you’ll need to walk 50 metres onto the platform from which to view the Falls.

Walk Time: It’s just half a minute down onto the platform. Swimming: People do it, but you’ve got to be careful because it’s quite a wide river with strong currents, if there has been rain recently. You will see, however, a rope swing attached to a tree near the viewing platform, which people do use to swing into the water.

Dogs: No dogs are allowed. Wheelchairs and Prams: Its not far to the Falls, but it involves stairs, so best to carry the baby instead. Go, Because: Go, because you will be able to hear the big noise that the rushing waters make!

Something Extra: If you’re up for a bigger walk, tackle the full Waitangi Track, which takes you to the Falls, but starts at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. It’s 5 kilometres (or 3.1 miles) in each direction, but the Waitangi Treaty Grounds is an incredibly important place in our history. Last Updated: June, 2024.

Whangārei

Whangārei is the country’s most northernmost city, albeit a small city, but it’s the region’s largest. Half of the region’s population all live in Whangārei! It’s home to some beautiful waterfalls, and is a great halfway stop in general between Auckland and the Far North. So even if you’re just passing through, make some time for these seven local waterfalls!

7. Wairua Falls

General Location: Wairua Falls is the furthest out of Whangārei, of this set, as it’s out to the west. We’re out of the Far North now, and into the Whangārei District (one of three districts in the Northland Region). Nearest Civilisation: The nearest recognisable place, to the average traveller, is indeed Whangārei, however, which is a 26 minute drive away (25 kilometres, or 15.5 miles).

Immediate Surroundings: The Falls are part of the Wairua River. Waterfall Height: The Wairua Falls are 7 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: You actually view the Falls from the carpark. There is no proper track to the bottom.

Waterfall Name: Sometimes Wairua Falls is referred to as Omiru Falls. Getting There: There’s no track for this one. You just drive to the end of Wairua Falls Road and view them from the carpark.

Track Distance: No walking required! Walk Time: 0 minutes! You can view Wairua Falls from the carpark. Swimming: There’s no track to the bottom of Wairua Falls, so it’s not really accessible for swimming. Currents can be dangerous, especially after rainfall.

Dogs: They can definitely view Wairua Falls from the carpark with you! Wheelchairs and Prams: Because you can view Wairua Falls from the carpark, you won’t need to worry about accessibility. Go, Because: Go, because after a heavy rain, they are quite something! In dry spells not a lot of water falls over the rocks, so just manage your expectations if you’re planning a visit in summer!

Something Extra: If you happen to be passing through here without Whangārei on the agenda, go east and spend some time in Whangārei – and at the six other waterfalls there. Last Updated: June, 2024.

8. Whangārei Falls

General Location: Whangārei Falls is one of several in the small city of Whangārei. The city and surrounds make up one of the three districts in the Northland region, which is the northernmost region of New Zealand. Nearest Civilisation: You’ll find Whangārei Falls just on the fringe of Whangārei, in Whangārei Scenic Reserve. It’s really not far!

Immediate Surroundings: The Whangārei Falls forms part of the Hatea River, which eventually flows out into Whangārei Harbour. Waterfall Height: Whangārei Falls is 26.3 metres high.

Waterfall Viewpoints: There are three viewing platforms. The first two are at the top of the Falls, one before the bridge and the other a minute after crossing the bridge. Continue on for 5 minutes more to the bottom and you’ll be able to look up at the Falls from the third viewpoint.

Waterfall Name: Whangārei Falls also goes by the name Otuihau Whangārei Falls. Otuihau is their original name. And another Māori name for the Falls is Te Wai Tiketike o Waiangā, which means ‘the cascading waters of Waiangā’. Getting There: You walk the Otuihau Whangārei Falls Scenic Reserve Loop Track, which will take you to all three viewpoints.

Track Distance: The Otuihau Whangārei Falls Scenic Reserve Loop Track is 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) long. Walk Time: It is 2 minutes from the carpark to the first lookout, and only a couple of minutes more to the second. It is 5 minutes to the bottom from there, and 5 minutes back to the carpark.

Swimming: Swimming is banned; it’s just not safe. Dogs: Dogs are allowed at Whangārei Falls on a leash. Wheelchairs and Prams: You can access the first viewpoint, but no further.

Go, Because: Go, because these are one of the best waterfalls in the Northland region! Something Extra: The Whangārei Falls Track is a larger loop, totalling 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) and would take an hour and a half to complete. It starts further back in the Whangārei Falls Scenic Reserve and follows the river along to the Whangārei Falls. Last Updated: June, 2024.

9. Paranui Falls / Pukenui Falls

General Location: Also on the fringe of Whangārei, Pukenui Falls is one of several in the vicinity of the city. The city and surrounds make up one of the three districts in the Northland region, which is the northernmost region of New Zealand.  Nearest Civilisation: You’ll find Pukenui Falls just on the edge of Whangārei.

Immediate Surroundings: Pukenui Falls is located in A H Reed Memorial Park, which is next to the Whangārei Scenic Reserve (containing Whangārei Falls). It is part of Paranui Stream. Waterfall Height: Paranui Falls is 24 metres high.

Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one! Waterfall Name: Pukenui Falls is also called Paranui Falls, because it sits in the Paranui Stream. Getting There: Not to be confused with the longer Pukenui Forest Loop, the Paranui Falls Loop Track is the one to take to the Falls. The other option is the Kauri Canopy Walk, which detours off to the Falls.

Track Distance: It’s just a couple of kilometres to the lookout on the Paranui Falls Loop Track. Walk Time: It should take you 30 minutes to get to the lookout on the Paranui Falls Loop Track. Swimming: It’s possible to swim at Paranui Falls, but always take precautions.

Dogs: Dogs are prohibited in the A H Reed Memorial Park, including at the waterfall.. Wheelchairs and Prams: Its a raised boardwalk, so you should be okay with wheelchairs and prams! Go, Because: Go, because the park is part of the original forest that covered the region, hundreds of years old.

Something Extra: Consider exploring A H Reed Memorial Park a little further. The park is a remnant of the original forest that covered the Northland region, so it is full of giant Kauri trees. To best explore the park, consider walking the Pukenui Forest Loop, which is 8.2 kilometres (5.1 miles), and will take you 3-4 hours. Last Updated: June, 2024.

10. Taheke Waterfall

General Location: Taheke Waterfall is the second furthest out of Whangārei, of this set, as it’s out to the east. Whangārei and the city surrounds form one of three districts in the Northland region. The Northland region is the northernmost region in New Zealand.

Nearest Civilisation: The nearest recognisable place, to the average traveller, is Whangārei, which is a 20 minute drive away (14 kilometres, or 8.7 miles). Immediate Surroundings: Taheke Waterfall is on the Taheke River, and forms part of the Taheke Scenic Reserve. Waterfall Height: The Taheke Waterfall is 46 metres high.

Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one viewpoint, which is a slight detour off the main Taheke Waterfall Loop Track. You’ll see the upper falls, but the lower platform that used to show the full waterfall has had to be closed off. Waterfall Name: To my knowledge, Taheke just means ‘waterfall’ in Māori, so it makes sense!

Getting There: The Taheke Waterfall Track will take you to the Falls – and then onwards! Track Distance: The full Taheke Waterfall Loop Track is a bit longer, but if you want to only go to the waterfall viewpoint, you can do a 1.4 kilometre (0.7. mile) return trip. Walk Time: Once on the Taheke Waterfall Loop Track, just going to the waterfall viewpoint is a 35 minute return walk.

Swimming: There is no access to the water so you cannot swim at Taheke Falls. Dogs: Dogs are prohibited at Taheke Scenic Reserve. Wheelchairs and Prams: The track gets bumpy and it isn’t suitable for wheelchairs or prams.

Go, Because: Go, because this is the highest waterfall in the Northland region! Something Extra: Go ‘the extra mile’ and walk the full loop  – the Taheke Waterfall Loop Track. It’s a 3.3 kilometre (2 mile) loop and is an hour and a half return. The waterfall viewpoint is a third of the way along. Last Updated: June, 2024.

11. Quarry Gardens Waterfalls, Quarry Gardens

General Location: Quarry Gardens Waterfalls (there are upper and lower cascades, hence the plural) are located in Whangārei, one of several in the vicinity of the city. The city and surrounds make up one of the three districts in the Northland region, which is the northernmost region of New Zealand. Nearest Civilisation: You’ll find Quarry Gardens Waterfalls within the small city of Whangārei.

Immediate Surroundings: The Quarry Gardens Waterfalls are part of the Quarry Gardens, a beautiful restored spot spanning more than 60 acres. Within the gardens there are areas to have a picnic, as well as the waterfalls, tracks through the forest, gardens and a lake. Entry is by donation.

Waterfall Height: The full height of the Quarry Garden Waterfall is 20 metres. Waterfall Viewpoints: There are two viewpoints of the waterfall. The first is in the first five minutes of walking, and the second is a further ten minutes along the lake, at the base of the waterfall.

Waterfall Name: The Quarry Garden Waterfall is named for the Quarry Gardens, and the gardens are named after the stone quarry that used to exist there, before the locals started the restoration project. Getting There: You’ll be able to find the Quarry Gardens waterfall easily once inside Quarry Gardens. You can grab a map at the Visitor Centre where you make your entry donation.

Track Distance: There are no officially named tracks, just paths that meander around the gardens and pass the lake and waterfall. Walk Time: Allow 15 minutes to get to see the waterfall from two different angles. Swimming: You cannot swim at Quarry Gardens.

Dogs: Dogs are not allowed in Quarry Gardens, as there are some kiwi that live in the gardens. Wheelchairs and Prams: Although the garden paths are suitable, it is not as easy for those on wheels to get to the waterfall. Go, Because: Go, because the Quarry Gardens make a lovely day out. There are plenty of beautiful spots to have a picnic and lots to look at.

Something Extra: Your something extra is to check out the rest of the gardens! Don’t just come for the waterfall. There is a cafe onsite named Quail Cafe, to keep you nourished, or, pack a picnic and enjoy it in the gorgeous surroundings. Last Updated: June, 2024.

12. Ross Park Cascade

General Location: Ross Park Cascade is located in Whangārei, one of several in the vicinity of the city. The city and surrounds make up one of the three districts in the Northland region, which is the northernmost region of New Zealand. Nearest Civilisation: You’ll find Ross Park Cascade within the small city of Whangārei.

Immediate Surroundings: Ross Park Cascade, and the Ross Track that takes you there, are located in Ross Park, which is within the wider Parihaka Scenic Reserve. Waterfall Height: Ross Park Cascade is 10 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one.

Waterfall Name: Ross Park Cascade is named for Ross Park, and the Ross Track, that takes you there. Getting There: Walk the Ross Track to the Ross Park Cascade. Track Distance: The Ross Track is 1.5 kilometres (0.9 miles).

Walk Time: It’s 40 minutes to walk the Ross Track. Swimming: This is too small of a waterfall to have a good swim. Dogs: Dogs are not allowed in this part of the Parihaka Scenic Reserve.

Wheelchairs and Prams: The track is not very suitable for these. Go, Because: Go, because at the bottom of the waterfall is a cave where you can see glow worms! It’s best to go with a torch, and then switch it off when you’re inside.

Something Extra: Ross Track is one of a couple in the Parihaka Scenic Reserve from which you can climb to the summit of Mount Parihaka. It’s an amazing view from the top, looking out over Whangārei – that is, if you’re up for the climb, which will take you just over an hour. Last Updated: June, 2024.

13. Raumanga Waterfall

General Location: Raumanga Waterfall is located on the outskirts of the small city of Whangārei. Whangārei District is one of three that make up the Northland region, the northernmost region in the country. Nearest Civilisation: Raumanga Waterfall is in Whangārei itself, and is only a 5 minute drive from the town centre (3 kilometres, or 1.9 miles).

Immediate Surroundings: Raumanga Waterfall is located in Raumanga Scenic Reserve and is part of Raumanga Stream, which flows into the Hatea River. Waterfall Height: Raumanga Waterfall is 15 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view Raumanga Waterfall from right up high as there track takes you there, as well as from the bottom of the Falls, and you can swim at the top of the Falls, too!

Waterfall Name: Raumanga Waterfall is named for the Raumanga Stream, and the suburb of Raumanga that it is located in. Getting There: To get there, follow the Raumanga Valley Reserve Path. Track Distance: It’s a 560 metre (0.3 miles) walk to the Raumanga Waterfall along the path.

Walk Time: It should take you 15 minutes to wall to Raumanga Waterfall, and 15 minutes back again. Swimming: Yes! There are pools at the top of the Falls that you can swim in.

Dogs: Dogs should be on a leash. Wheelchairs and Prams: This track is quite rocky near the top of the falls and not really suitable for wheels. Go, Because: Go, because not every waterfall has a pool at the top where you can swim!

Something Extra: On your return back down, if you take a left turn onto a different track, you will get the opportunity to explore more of the scenic reserve. Last Updated: June, 2024.

The Brynderwyn Hills

The Brynderwyn Hills form the boundary between Northland region, New Zealand’s northernmost region, and Auckland region, the next one down. The Ranges run from west to east – from the Otamatea River that feeds into the Kaipara Harbour (one of the largest in the world!!) over to Bream Bay on the east coast (22 kilometres, or 13.6 miles, of white sandy beaches). The Ranges are home to our southernmost couple of waterfalls for Northland region:

14. Piroa Falls

General Location: Piroa Falls sits in the Brynderwyn Hills, which run along the bottom of the Northland region, east to west. Nearest Civilisation: The nearest settlement is Brynderwyn itself, but you might be more familiar with place names like Waipū (from which the Falls are a 15 minute drive – 13 kilometres, or 8 miles) or Mangawhai (from which the Falls are a 35 minute drive – 36 kilometres, or 22 miles).  Immediate Surroundings: Piroa Falls sit on the Ahuroa River, and is part of the Waipū Gorge Scenic Reserve.

Waterfall Height: Piroa Falls are 20 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one! Waterfall Name: Piroa is the Māori name for the Brynderwyn area, and the Falls are named after that.

Getting There: You’ll take the Piroa Falls Track to Piroa Falls. Track Distance: Piroa Falls Track is 100 metres (0.06 miles) to the Falls and 100 metres back. Walk Time: Piroa Falls Track will take you 5 minutes total!

Swimming: Although Piroa Falls have both shallow and deep swimming holes that look perfect for a cold dip, they have been subject to contamination and in previous years the council has recommended not swimming. These concerns were raised in 2019 and were still current in 2022. Swimming not advised. Dogs: Only dogs with a Department of Conservation permit can be at Piroa Falls.

Wheelchairs and Prams: There are lots of steps so Piroa Falls Track is not suited to wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because this is such a short track and a very easy walk! It’s so close to Waipū Cove, so if you’re travelling north from Auckland, it’s a really logical spot to stop (although the gorge road itself is off the main high way and a bit of a detour that is somewhat narrow and windy).

Something Extra: You’re already in the Waipū Gorge Scenic Reserve, so it would be rude not to visit Waipū Cove! The beach is just beautiful with clear blue water and white soft sands. Last Updated: June, 2024.

15. Tanekaha Falls

General Location: Tanekaha Falls sits in the Brynderwyn Hills, which run along the bottom of the Northland region (the country’s northernmost region), from east to west. Nearest Civilisation: The nearest civilisation is Mangawhai (from which the Falls are a 6 minute drive – 6 kilometres, or 3.5 miles), but they are also close to Waipū Cove (a 20 minute drive – 16 kilometres, or 10 miles, which will require you to go through Mangawhai, anyway). Immediate Surroundings: Tanekaha Falls (there’s a few) are located in Tanekaha Forest.

Waterfall Height: The first of the Tanekaha Waterfalls is 8 metres high. The second and third are the upper and lower parts of one bigger waterfall, which is 25 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s one viewpoint of the first of the Tanekaha Waterfalls, and there’s a lower viewpoint of the second waterfall, and a viewpoint that’s midway up. It’s above the lower falls and below the upper falls.

Waterfall Name: Tanekaha means ‘celery pine’ in Māori, and they’re commonly found in the Brynderwyns, so I believe the Falls might be named after the trees in the forest. Getting There: Take the Tanekaha Falls Track to see the waterfalls.

Track Distance: The Tanekaha Falls Track is 3 kilometres (1.8 miles), which you can double if you return via the same track. (You may want to return via the Tanekaha Loop Track, if you’e not done walking, which links three different tracks together!) Walk Time: The entirety of the Tanekaha Falls Track will take you between 1.5 and 2 hours, if you go there and back the same way.

Swimming: Yes! The first of Tanekaha Waterfalls has a good swimming hole. Dogs: Dogs are not allowed here! Wheelchairs and Prams: These tracks involve some boulder hopping and just aren’t suitable for wheelchairs and prams.

Go, Because: Go, because this is three waterfalls for the price of one!! Just kidding, but you do get to see three waterfalls from the one track, so well worth your time.

Something Extra: The Tanekaha Falls Track forms a third of the Tanekaha Loop Track – consider walking the whole loop! It’s a 5 hour route (max time); you might be done in less. It links the Tanekaha Falls Track with the Langs View Track with the Tanekaha Forest Track. We did this in April 2018 and it was so beautiful! Langs Beach is visible from Langs View Track and is a bright cobalt blue on a sunny day. Last Updated: June, 2024.

Phew! That’s the end of the list! From Waiotemarama Falls at the tippy top of the Northland region, right down to Tanekaha Falls at the border of the Auckland region, each waterfall provides a mesmerising and rewarding experience. Make it a priority when you next travel through the region to stop at some of these amazing waterfalls of New Zealand.