Waikato Waterfalls
Breathtaking views are available everywhere in the Waikato region, which is home to a number of waterfall features. From short tracks that provide stunning waterfalls, to hikes, there is a perfect destination for all waterfall lovers in the Waikato.
Wairere Falls, Matamata
The Wairere Falls are the highest falls in the north island, with water plunging 153 metres over the falls. The viewing platform at the base of the falls is an hour and half return walk, while the trek to the top of the falls is a further 30-45 minutes from there. The view is worth the hike, staring out across the Waikato plains and the stunning valley below.
Location: The Wairere Falls walk starts at the car park on Goodwin Road, off Old Te Aroha Road.
Bridal Veil Falls, Raglan
Also known as the Wairēinga Falls, these stunning falls are 55 metres high and can be reached by an easy 10 minute walk through native bush. With two viewing platforms at the top, and another at the bottom, the stunning vistas are the perfect stop on the way to Raglan.
Location: The falls are signposted from State Highway 23, between Te Uku and Raglan.
Marokopa Falls, Waitomo
One of the most beautiful waterfalls in New Zealand, the Marokopa Falls are 35 metres high and are easily accessed. It is only a 20 minute return walk to the falls through native tawa and nikau to the viewing platform.
Location: Signposted along Te Anga Road, beyond Waitomo Village, heading towards Marokopa
Omaru Falls, Piopio
The Omaru Falls are a hidden gem in the Waitomo district. Standing at approximately 45 metres high, the leisurely walk though farmland and bush is rewarded with the lookout options available once reaching the stunning falls. There is an ideal picnic spot available beside the river that leads to the falls along with a lookout giving incredible views.
Location: Signposted on Omaru Road, off SH4
Waitanguru Falls, Waitomo
This magnificent tiered waterfall is simply stunning to look at. With just a short 15 minute return walk to the viewing platform, these falls are not to be missed particularly whilst in the Waitomo district.
Location: 19km down Mangaotaki Road further on from the Mangaotaki Walk.
Whakakai Stream Waterfall, Raglan
It only takes a quick 20 minute walk to reach the Whakakai Stream Waterfall site, which is an ideal family destination. These falls are only small and the stream provides the perfect location to cool down safely in the water. Grassy banks and plenty of trees provide shade to spend some time hunting for fossils in the rocks and water.
Location: Karakariki Valley Road, off Karakariki Road from SH23 between Hamilton and Raglan
Tawarau Falls, Waitomo
In the Tawarau Forest in the Waitomo district lies the Tawarau Falls. To reach the falls is certainly an advanced track, with options of a 3 hour loop track or a 2 hour return track to the falls. Add on a visit to the Double Falls in the Tawarau Forest for a longer 5 hour and 30 minute return hike.
Location: West of the Waitomo Caves, Appletree Road which is recommended to be driven on with 4WD vehicles
Tutumangao Falls, Te Aroha
Easily accessed through the Te Aroha Domain, these horsetail-type falls stand at 18 metres high and start near the Mokena Geyser located in the domain. With only a 20-30 minute walk before reaching the falls’ base, the track opens up to a stunning view of the waterfall.
Location: Te Aroha Domain, Te Aroha
Vivian Falls, North Waikato
The 12 metre high Vivian Falls are located in Harker Reserve, which is in Onewhero. Very close to Port Waikato, Tuakau and Mercer, the reserve is certainly worth stopping in at. Following a gravel road for approximately 1km will lead you on just a 15 minute return walk to these peaceful and stunning falls.
Location: The end of Miller Road, Onewhero
Madonna Falls, Te Kuiti
The Madonna Falls are found only 20 minutes from Te Kuiti in a well signposted carpark. These somewhat-sacred falls are not necessarily spectacular, but legend has it that a boy saw the image of Madonna in the falls. They are a popular stop for filling up water bottles from the specially inserted pipe.
Location: The falls are signposted on State Highway 4, close to Te Kuiti
