Last updated July 2026
McLaren Falls Park is a 190-hectare parkland beside Lake McLaren, just ten minutes by car from Tauranga. The park offers easy vehicle access to picnic areas, walking tracks, a waterfall, and a range of recreational facilities. Visitors enjoy camping, trout fishing, kayaking, swimming, disc golf, and equestrian activities throughout the year. Autumn foliage and the chance to see glow worms after dark add seasonal appeal. Entry to the park is free, though camping incurs fees and requires advance booking.
Practical Information
| Location | McLaren Falls Road, off State Highway 29, Tauranga |
| Distance from Tauranga | 10 minutes by car |
| Opening hours | Summer (daylight saving): 7.30am β 7.30pm; Winter: 7.30am β 5.30pm |
| Entry | Free |
| Camping | Advance online booking required; max 3 nights; first-come, first-served within designated areas |
| Camping fees (as of 1 July 2026) | 0β5 years: free; 5β16 years: $5β$10 per night (seasonal); 17+: $15β$30 per night (seasonal) |
| Dogs | Not permitted, even in vehicles |
| Alcohol | Permitted for adults 18+; responsible consumption only |
| Fires | Not permitted |
| BBQs | Electric BBQs provided at several locations; bring-your-own gas BBQs allowed; no charcoal |
| Showers | Free at Pin Oak Flat campsite for paying campers |
About McLaren Falls Park
McLaren Falls Park sits beside Lake McLaren on the Wairoa River and forms part of the historic Kaimai Hydroelectric Power Scheme. The park features one of the best botanical collections of trees in the North Island, along with exotic plantings and native bush. Picnic areas, electric BBQs, and toilet facilities support day visits, while the lakeside setting attracts swimmers and picnickers in summer.
The park ranger is on duty seven days a week and can be contacted through Tauranga City Council. Vehicle speed is limited to 15 km/h, and gates close at the advertised times. A cafe operates near the information centre, and Marshalls Animal Park is accessible through the grounds.
Weddings and small events are permitted at designated sites with capacity limits of up to 75 people. The park also hosts occasional concerts and community activities. No open fires or charcoal BBQs are allowed due to fire risk.
Walking Tracks and Glow Worms
Extensive walkways wind through the park, including the popular Waterfall Track. This short, easy path leads to the picturesque waterfall and offers views of glow worms on either side after dusk. Part of the track is suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Other tracks provide access to scenic viewpoints and lakeside areas. A map of all tracks is available on the Tauranga City Council website.
Camping and Accommodation
Camping is available at Pin Oak Flat, Top Flat, and Hamilton Point (Rotary Grove is currently closed). Sites are first-come, first-served within these areas after advance online booking. Maximum stay is three nights. Showers are free at Pin Oak Flat. A hostel is also available for booking. Campers must arrive before gate closing times and follow strict vehicle movement rules after sunset.
Fishing, Kayaking and Water Activities
Year-round trout fishing is available in Lake McLaren and the Ruahihi Canal. A fishing licence from Fish & Game New Zealand is required. Kayaking and rafting are popular on the lake and river, with commercial glow-worm kayak tours operating in the evening to a cave accessible by water. Water releases from the dam occur at scheduled times during warmer months, creating white-water conditions for experienced paddlers.
Disc Golf
An 18-basket disc golf course starts at Pin Oak Flat and is regarded as one of the most scenic courses in New Zealand. Follow signs from the main gate to the starting point.
Equestrian Facilities
A dedicated equestrian area with wide open spaces and float parking is open to all riders. Horses are not permitted on the rest of the park grounds. Contact Tauranga City Council for current availability and conditions.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the variety of activities in one location, from easy walks to glow-worm spotting and disc golf. The park feels spacious and well maintained, with good facilities for picnics and camping.
Many visitors return for the peaceful lakeside setting and the magical evening glow-worm experience. Campers note the need to book ahead and arrive before gates close, while day visitors enjoy the free entry and scenic drives through the grounds.
Where to Learn More
Tauranga City Council β McLaren Falls Park: Official page with opening hours, rules, facilities and current alerts.
Tauranga City Council β Camping and Bookings: Current fees, booking requirements and terms for campers.
Tauranga City Council β McLaren Falls Walkways: Detailed track descriptions and facilities map.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is entry to McLaren Falls Park free?
Yes, entry is free. Camping and hostel stays incur separate fees.
Are dogs allowed in the park?
No, dogs are not permitted anywhere in the park, even inside vehicles, due to free-roaming sheep.
Do I need to book camping in advance?
Yes, advance online booking is required. Sites within the designated camping areas are first-come, first-served.
When can I see glow worms?
Glow worms are visible on the Waterfall Track after dusk. Evening kayak tours also visit a glow-worm cave on the lake.
What are the current camping fees?
Fees vary by season and age. Check the Tauranga City Council camping page for the latest rates as of 1 July 2026.
Is fishing allowed year-round?
Yes, trout fishing is available year-round in Lake McLaren and the Ruahihi Canal with a valid Fish & Game licence.
Are there BBQs available?
Electric BBQs are provided at several locations. Bring-your-own gas BBQs are allowed; charcoal and open fires are prohibited.
Can I hold a wedding at the park?
Yes, three designated sites accommodate up to 75 people. Advance permission from the council is required.
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