Children in front of Dawson Falls
Image: DOC

Kiwi Guardians at Dawson Falls

Introduction

Go through the mysterious goblin forest and discover trees with antifreeze leaves! And if you’re really keen, tramp to the swing bridge high above the river for awesome views!
  • Admire the 18 m high Dawson Falls - also known as Te Rere a Noke, named after a crafty chief who hid behind them to avoid pursuers!
  • Find out how power is generated at New Zealand’s oldest operational power station.
  • Listen out for resident tomtits in trees.
  • Check out the Dawson Falls visitor centre or visit the cafe in the refurbished old Syme Hut.

    • Get ready

    Download the adventure map (PDF, 1,799K) and check out what you can do.

    Go and explore

    Look out for the Guardian Post when you get there. On it you'll find a special code word - write it down.

    Getting there: Dawson Falls is 63 km south of New Plymouth. Just before Stratford, turn off SH 3 onto Monmouth Road, which becomes Cardiff Road. In Cardiff, turn onto Opunake Road for 8 km, then onto Manaia Road and follow this up the mountain.

    Know before you go: Mt Taranaki has changeable and unpredictable weather − check the forecast and carry enough clothing and equipment to ensure you are able to cope with any type of weather, at any time of the year. Rivers and streams on the mountain can become impassable after heavy rain.

    Claim your reward

    Tell us the Dawson Falls code word to receive a Kiwi Guardians certificate and medal for this adventure.

    Put the medal on your back pack or pencil case to show everyone the adventure you've had.

    Each Kiwi Guardians place has a different medal - see how many you can collect.

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