Kaiate Falls

Kaiate Falls, also known as Te Rerekawau Falls, is a pair of impressive waterfalls with the first one being a three-tiered upper series. This is then followed by an attractive plunge of the lower waterfall, which is 15m high. When reaching the base, you’ll also find a beautiful swimming hole where you can enjoy an awesome swim and find a spot for lunch.

The Falls are located in the North Island of New Zealand. In Welcome Bay, Tauranga.

Upon your arrival, you will reach a parking area where the beginning of the trail begins. The grassed section located near the carpark is a suitable picnic area. It’s from this car park here you’ll also find a public toilet and a view of Mauao and the Port of Tauranga.

A few steps away from the carpark is the beginning of the track. You’ll make your way down a dirt track that is easy to follow. Through-out the trail there are some sets of steps.

As you make your way down toward the lower falls, you’ll also find yourself walking through the beautiful forest on your way down towards this stunning attraction. There are also a number of cool spots where you can cast your eyes on each of the three cascading waterfalls before you move along to the main waterfall.

Along the way, there are seats for you to sit and relax. Take in the surrounding beauty of the cascading falls and the dense forest as its smell refreshes you. Take your time and enjoy this beautiful walk while finding a seat.

Before reaching the base, you will hear the plunge of the waterfall. Beneath this lovely attraction is a waterhole that is great to swim in during the summertime. Fortunately, there is enough space to find a spot that is great for picnics with a view of the spectacular waterfall. The stream flows over ignimbrite bluffs as a series of cascades.

The swimming hole is not advisable to swim in for a few days after a decent amount of rainfall. This is due to having become contaminated. During heavy rain, the walkway on the upper bridge may be under water. In some areas, the rails have been covered with vegetation.

Tracks are well-formed throughout the reserve, including the track junctions. Easy to follow and walk on. You will require a moderate level of fitness and care as you make your way down the Kaiate Falls trail and back up the walking tracks. It would be wise to wear appropriate footwear. Something to remember, during time of rainfall and up to a few days after, the tracks can become slippery in places.

Kaiate Falls is located on the Kaiate Stream, a narrow stream that drains into the Waitao River. It is a popular attraction for outdoor enthusiasts, but it is not safe for swimming. The water quality is compromised as it is contaminated with unsafe levels of E. coli faecal bacteria. Toi te Ora Public Health issued a permanent health warning for this area in 2015.

Kaiate Falls has become a popular waterfall to visit when in the North Island of New Zealand, specifically the Tauranga region.