Tarawera Outlet to Falls Track

Walking track

Time:  

2 hr one way

Distance:  

5 km

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.

Description

Doc worker James Willcocks standing
in front of the amazing Tarawera Falls

The track begins at the Tarawera Outlet swingbridge.  Cross the bridge and take the right hand track at the junction. The track meanders through the native bush, largely following the river. Caution is advised for those wishing to swim in the river beside this track, due to underwater currents and the nature of the river. However, there is a safe and popular swimming spot approximately 1 1/2 hours from the Outlet, at a wider and shallower stretch of the river where the water runs more gently.

Shortly afterwards, the track divides for a brief distance before both tracks rejoin. The track then zigzags down a steep escarpment to a viewing area at the base of the falls.  The Waterfall Road carpark is a short 20 minute walk past the falls. For those wanting to picnic beside the river, there is a beautiful spot just 100 metres back along Waterfall Road from the carpark.

Facilities: Toilets are located at Tarawera Outlet and at the Tarawera Falls carpark. There is a viewing area with a seat at the falls.

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, food and drink, a hat and sunscreen. It is alsoadvisable to leave your tramping intentions with a responsible person, in case you get lost.  

What to expect on a walking track:

• Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day
• Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy
• Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities
• Clearly sign posted. Stream and river crossings are bridged
• Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required

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