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Tarawera Falls

Tarawera Falls

The spectaular Tarawera Falls is a 35-metre high waterfall on the Tarawera River that flows out of Lake Tarawera and across a lava flow that erupted from Mt Tarawera about 11,000 years ago.

The river disappears about 30 metres back from the clifftop into flooded caves in the lava and pours out halfway up the cliff on the far side of the flow. After rain, part of the flow passes over the top of the cliff as a 65-metre tall companion fall.

Access is from the town of Kawerau and is a drive of about 45 minutes over unsealed roads, followed by a walk of about 20 minutes.

A forestry access permit is required, available from the Information Centre in Kawerau.

Note: Caution is advised for those wishing to swim in the river beside the track above the falls, due to underwater currents and the nature of the river.

For more information visit the Department of Conservation or Kawerau i-SITE websites.

Explore Tarawera Falls with Google Street View

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Track to view falls

Contact Details

Tarawera Falls
whakatane3121
New Zealand

More things to do

Te Urewera Treks provides a range of unique eco-cultural wilderness treks, bringing you a truly special guided walking experience.

This picturesque, well-groomed 18-hole course is on flat, easy walking land and is adjacent to the Tarawera River with mountain views and bird life adding to the enjoyment for players. 

The brainchild of Colin Hughes, these picturesque tiles were designed and created by a team of 12 artisans from the Whakatane Society of Arts and Crafts.

Experience one hour of awesome jet boating and view the majestic scenery at the Motu River.

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Fishing out of Whakatāne to White Island, down to Waihau Bay and the Ranfurly Bank, we offer all different styles of fishing targeting everything from trout to marlin.

This bronze statue atop Turuturu Rock lies at the mouth of the Whakatāne River and commemorates the bravery of Wairaka.

Ready to lock it in? Still have questions?

Let our friendly i-ISITE team take care of the hard work for you!