Wairere Falls Waterfall Itinerary

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Duration: 1 hr - Full Day

** Upcoming construction works will be taking place on the Wairere Falls Track starting in late January 2024. The Department of Conservation will be upgrading multiple structures along the Wairere Falls Track. This work will take between 16 to 18 weeks to complete and during this time the Wairere Falls Track will have to be periodically closed for both public safety and to allow our contractors to carry out their work safely. **

DOC Website

Wairere Falls is a natural beauty in the Waikato region and with many of nature’s beauties it takes a bit of work to see. We ask that you come prepared for this track to ensure that you have the safest and most enjoyable adventure. We have put together some general information for you and ask you do not hesitate to contact us or come in for any further questions.

“A well formed track weaves its way through moss covered rocks and tree roots. It meets up with the river and bridges assist with river crossings. There is a steady climb up the base of the cliff where sets of steps lead to the top of the gorge. The track passes through a grove of nīkau, pūriri and kohekohe before leading to a lookout platform with a spectacular view looking from the base of the falls. The falls drop 153 m over the steep escarpment, which is part of the Okauia fault line.

The track climbs further with plenty of steps and staircases in the steep section. At the top of the hill the track winds through a rich mosaic of forest species with tawa. The track then branches to the falls lookout. From this point the return tramp to the lookout will take you 2 hours. There is a magnificent view looking back over the valley and the Waikato Plains.”

Option 1

Opal Hot Springs

Itinerary 3 includes a well-deserved full body rejuvenation after hiking to the top of Wairere.

On your way out to the falls on Okauia Springs road is Opal Hot Springs. Opal Hot Springs, just over 8km from the falls, has options of outdoor pools, indoor private spas, and an outdoor private spa.

This is the perfect way to unwind after an intense day of tramping. The staff will treat you like family and you’ll leave feeling as good as new!

Visit the Website

Option 2

Honey

With this itinerary you will have a chance to go home with a yummy souvenir from your trek. Just next door to Fantails is Wairere Falls Honey. Rich and Shirley live just down the road from Wairere and collect honey from their hives scattered in the Kaimai Range.

We recommend taking a hike up the falls soaking in the nature then stopping by Wairere Falls Honey on your way out. Not only will you get to taste and purchase their honey, but you will also get a stunning view of Wairere Falls from their home.

Option 3

Full Day

Itinerary 4 is the best option if you have the time. On your way to the falls you can stop into Wairere Falls Honey and meet the wonderful people who collect it.

After your stop at Wairere Falls Honey you can continue your journey to the falls. Once you have worked up your appetite from tramping you can stop on your way out at Fantails to grab a yummy bite and unwind.

On your way back to town you will make a pit stop at OHS for a dip in the hot pools to rejuvenate!

Wairere Falls

Faintails

Opal Hot Springs

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring?

It is advised to bring sturdy and comfortable boots for the track, waterproof coat, sunscreen and hat, food and drink, and a first aid kit.

Times for excursions

The entire track can take an upwards of 2-4 hours depending on your physical abilities. We advise you to do this track in daylight if you do not know the area as you can easily become lost.

How strenuous is the track?

This is an advanced tramping track working its way up for most of the way over rocks and stairs. If you’re unsure of your abilities we advise you to go to the base lookout first.

Is it possible to get to Wairere with no car?

Wairere is 16km from the center of Matamata. It is possible to go by bike or hire a taxi if you have no other form of transportation. We can help at the i-SITE with bike hires or taxi services.

How is the weather?

Being that Wairere is along the Kaimai Range, it is hard to predict the weather. We advise to dress appropriately for the current weather and to bring a change of clothes in the event the weather turns.

We have an abundance of shops and eateries all within walking distance of each other, conveniently located in the town center. At the Matamata isite We also have a wide range of activities whether you’d like to relax or be active. If you are looking for something to fill your day or even your week we have a list of suggested itineraries you may be interested in. We take pride in our locally owned and operated businesses.

Matamata isite