The Wairere Falls, the highest waterfall in the North Island and a well-liked walking trail in the Waikato, are only ten minute drive from Matamata. Here is everything about the Wairere Falls track in New Zealand you should know before visiting.
1. Wairere Falls: The tallest waterfall in North Island, New Zealand
Wairere Falls is one of North Island’s highest and most beautiful waterfalls. It is situated in the Kaimai Range/Waikato. The waterfall is incredibly high and is visible from SH 27.
However, the views of the falls are very spectacular from the lookouts near the waterfall, making the 1.5-hour return trip worthwhile. The waterfall is on the list of Must-See Waterfalls in New Zealand.
2. The track to Wairere Falls is how high?
The Kaimai escarpment is traversed by Wairere Falls, the highest waterfall in New Zealand’s North Island, which drops 153 meters (500 feet) in two steps.
3. Why should you walk at Wairere Falls?
It takes around an hour and a half to climb back to the observation area at the base of the Wairere falls. It is a lovely stroll along a well-kept path. You can cross the stream on a few small wooden bridges, which offer picturesque views of the small cascades and the chance to cool your weary feet in the cool water.
The vista from the viewing platform is breathtaking until it turns into a series of tiny streams that meander over ferns and moss-covered rocks.
The more adventurous can go another 30 to 45 minutes to the top of the falls, where there is another overlook with a breathtaking view of the valley and the Waikato plains beyond. From the foot of the falls to this additional lookout, it takes around two hours, so getting there and going back to your car will make this a worthwhile full-day hike.
4. History of Wairere Falls track
From Matamata to Tauranga, it was a traditional Maori path that later also served missionaries, adventurers, and researchers. Tragically, “Tarore,” a young Mori girl, was murdered on the Wairere track in 1836. Although a new track has been constructed, the old “Maori” track, as it is known, is no longer frequently utilized.
5. How many steps are on Wairere Falls?
The 121 total steps on the trail are mostly from the bottom to the top of the falls, and they are somewhat steep.
6. Getting there
Wairere Falls is around a 2.5-hour or 45-minute journey from Tauranga or Auckland, respectively. The surface of the road is always sealed.
Driving from Auckland, take the SH-1 south, then take a left onto the SH-2 and drive for the following 36 km. Then, take the SH-27 southward for the next 65.5 kilometers, after which you will turn left onto Wardville Rd (near Waharoa) and continue on it for the subsequent 9.5 kilometers.
After 6 kilometers, turn left onto Goodwin Rd after turning right onto Old Aroha Rd in Gordon (well signposted). To get to a sizable parking area at the end of Goodwin Rd., drive 850 meters. A long-drop restroom and a few picnic tables are present (follow the track for 2-5 minutes).
7. Tips and advice for walking
- You can not bring dogs on many of the walking routes in the Waikato region.
- Don’t go near the cliff’s brink.
- If no one is swimming, only drink water from the river.
- Wheelchairs and strollers are not permitted on the track.
- Bring your camera so you may record the breathtaking views of Wairere Falls.
