Last updated November 2026
Raparapahoe Falls are a 3 m waterfall on Te Raparapa-ā-hoe Stream near Te Puke, at the bottom of a steep track through mature tawa forest. The Western Bay of Plenty District Council lists the track and gives about 60 minutes return.
The way down drops steeply into a narrow, densely bushed gorge, then heads upstream to a large pool at the base of the falls. The council is clear that the track needs a high level of fitness and is only for those who are fit and agile. Check the council page before you go.
Practical Information
- Start
- Signposted roadside parking bay on No. 4 Road, Te Puke, 2.4 km past the bridge
- Distance from the city
- Off No. 4 Road near Te Puke, south-east of Tauranga
- Walking time
- About 60 minutes return
- Track length
- About 1 km (Bay of Plenty NZ)
- Height of the falls
- 3 m
- Fitness
- High; very steep in places, for fit and agile walkers only
- Dogs
- Listed as allowed by Bay of Plenty NZ; check with the council before you go
- Listed by
- Western Bay of Plenty District Council
About Raparapahoe Falls
This is a short walk with a big climb. From the road the track drops steeply through mature tawa forest into the gorge of Te Raparapa-ā-hoe Stream, which the council describes as narrow and densely bushed. At the bottom, the track turns upstream to the pool below the falls.
The falls themselves are small, a 3 m drop, with a large pool at the base. Bay of Plenty NZ describes the water plunging into a cool, clear pool.
Coming back is the hard part. The climb out is as steep as the descent, and the council says only fit, agile walkers should try it. Bay of Plenty NZ calls the track steep and rough and warns it can get slippery, so leave the jandals at home and wear shoes with good grip.
Swimming in the Pool
The council describes the pool as “perfect for a refreshing dip” before the climb back to the road. There is no other information on water conditions, so judge the pool yourself on the day, keep off the top of the falls, and stay out when the stream is high after rain.
Getting There
From Te Puke, drive up No. 3 Road and turn into No. 4 Road. Cross the bridge, turn immediately left and drive for 2.4 km to the signposted roadside parking bay where the track starts. Bay of Plenty NZ gives the address as 282 Number 4 Road, Te Puke.
Where to Learn More
Western Bay of Plenty District Council: Te Raparapa-ā-hoe Stream: track status, directions and a track map.
Bay of Plenty NZ: Waterfalls in the Bay of Plenty: the regional tourism guide to the Bay’s waterfalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the walk to Raparapahoe Falls take?
The council gives about 60 minutes return.
How hard is it?
Hard on the legs. The council says the descent and climb back are very steep in places and the track needs a high level of fitness.
How high is the waterfall?
About 3 m, with a large pool at its base.
Can I swim there?
The council suggests the pool for a dip. Judge the water yourself on the day and stay out after heavy rain.
Where do I park?
At the signposted roadside parking bay on No. 4 Road, 2.4 km past the bridge.
Can I take my dog?
Bay of Plenty NZ lists dogs as allowed. The council page doesn’t say, so check with the council before you go.
What should I wear?
Shoes with good grip. Bay of Plenty NZ warns the track can get slippery.
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