Tarawera Falls Track
Short walk
Time:
20 min one way
Distance:
700 m
Getting there
Access to Tarawera Outlet is from Kawerau township (off SH 30 between Rotorua and Whakatane) via private forestry roads which require permits. The forest gate is closed during the hours of darkness. The forest road may be closed in summer when fire risk is high.
Access permits
Permits cost $4 and must be collected on the day of entering the forest roads from:
Kawerau Information Centre
Plunket St, Kawerau
+64 7 323 7550
Open 8am - 4pm Monday - Sunday (closed Christmas Day)
Directions from Kawerau
When you drive into Kawerau turn off Tamarangi Drive into Islington Street, then turn right onto Onslow Street, left onto Fenton Street, right onto River Road and then left onto Waterhouse Street. You are now on private forestry roads. Follow Tarawera Road (Forestry) which then becomes Fentons Mill Road, and then turn left onto Waterfall Road.
About the area
At Lake Tarawera Scenic Reserve you can visit Tarawera Landing, The Orchard, Humphries Bay and Hot Water Beach.
Tarawera Falls
The spectacular Tarawera Falls — where water surges out of fissures in a large rock cliff-face surrounded by native bush. The cliff is the end of an ancient rhyolitic lava flow that is believed to have poured from an erupting Mt Tarawera about 11,000 years ago. An abrupt stop to the flow produced these high cliffs.
Vegetation here has developed since the 1886 Tarawera eruption. Both pohutukawa and rata are found. An unusual feature is the range of hybrids between these two closely related species that occurs in the area. Evidence of this interbreeding can be seen in the variety of different leaf shapes found on the forest floor here.
Description
Follow the track that leaves the carpark heading upstream along the Tarawera River. You will reach a bridge crossing over Tarawera River and the track continues upstream until you arrive at the falls viewing area where you can fully appreciate their splendour. Signs at the viewpoint explain the cultural and natural significance of the area.
Back-track to return to the carpark or continue along the tramping track to Tarawera Outlet (approximately another 2 hours one way).
Facilities: A toilet is located at the carpark. There is a viewing area with a seat at the falls.
Places to stay
This is a standard campsite in the Rotorua Lakes area.
Plan and prepare
You need to be well prepared when tramping on conservation land, especially on the longer day walks. Ensure you have strong, comfortable boots, warm clothing, a good raincoat, first aid kit, plenty of food and drink, a hat and sunscreen. It is also advisable to leave your tramping intentions with a responsible person, in case you get lost.
What to expect on a short walk:
- Easy walking for up to an hour
- Track is well formed, with an even surface. There may be steps or slopes
- Suitable for people of most abilities and fitness
- Stream and rivers crossings are bridged
- Walking shoes required
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