The Top 7 Rotorua Waterfalls Worth Waking Up for
Jessica McNamara
| Last Updated: December 2024 I once found myself trekking to a waterfall that turned out to be more of a glorified trickle than the majestic cascade I had envisioned.
I stood staring at a feeble stream of water, wondering if I’d accidentally stumbled upon a garden hose left on. That day, I made a vow: no more lacklustre waterfalls!
Since then, I’ve only gone where the waterfalls are nothing short of spectacular. So, here are all my top favourite waterfalls in Rotorua that are truly worth the hike.
1. Tarawera Falls
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Tarawera Falls is best for people who like beautiful waterfalls but prefer a short hike. Located in the Lake Tarawera Scenic Reserve, the trail to the waterfall starts right at the car park.
It’s an easy and scenic 20-minute walk one way and great for photography. Trust me—the views are just stunning!
As you approach the waterfall, you’ll be amazed to see it standing a whopping 65 metres (213 feet) high; it’s something you have to see to believe.
Pro Tip: You need a permit from the Kawerau i-SITE Visitor Information Centre to visit. Plus, you can only go on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
2. Cascade Falls
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Cascade Falls is best for people who like a mix of adventure and natural beauty without too much fuss.
This waterfall, about 10 metres (32 feet) high, tumbles over rocks covered in lush moss and ferns. It’s like something out of a fairytale.
The trail starts right behind the cabins at Okataina Outdoor Education & Recreation Trust. Just head to the right of the parking lot for the Western Okataina Walkway, and you’re on your way.
Now, the hike to the falls is fairly easy. It’s just a 1.3 km (0.8 miles) loop that’ll take you about 30-40 minutes.
It’s a moderate-level path winding through a forest, and I always find myself stopping to take it all in.
Once you get to Cascade Falls, there are a few places to sit. This makes it a great spot to just relax and go live on Instagram to show off the beauty around you.
Pro Tip: If you can, try to stay until nightfall. That’s when the glow worms come out and transform the place into a magical grotto.
3. Tutea Falls
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Tutea Falls is best for people who like thrills and scenic beauty. Among the waterfalls that Rotorua is known for, Tutea Falls stands out as the most impressive.
Plummeting 7 metres (23 feet), it’s the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world.
When I went there, I decided to brave the whitewater rafting and let me tell you, it was a wild ride! That 7-metre drop really gets your heart racing.
Even if you’re not into that kind of adventure, you can simply soak in the views from the platform on the Okere Falls Track.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Okere Falls Track. It’s an easy walk with stunning views of Tutea Falls and a bit of Maori history to boot.
4. Kaiate Falls
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Kaiate Falls is best for people who like hiking, swimming, and natural beauty all in one spot. You’ll find a pair of eye-catching waterfalls with a three-tiered upper section leading down to a majestic 15-metre (49-foot) plunge.
The parking area is the starting point of your adventure. From there, the trail is straightforward and easy to follow.
There are even seats along the way where you can rest and take in the scenery.
As you head down towards the lower falls, make sure to look at the forest around you for some stunning sights! You can expect to come across even more breathtaking views as you approach the three-tiered falls.
Pro Tip: At the base of the waterfall, there’s a swimming hole where you can take a dip or find a cosy spot to have lunch.
5. Okere Falls
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Okere Falls is best for people who love adventure and serenity.
It lies about 20 km (12.42 miles) north of Rotorua on the edge of Lake Rotoiti. This is also where the Kaituna River begins—a hot spot for rafters and kayakers.
One thing I loved about this place is how easy it is to get close to the action. The Okere Falls Track is a well-maintained path that takes you through lush bushland with several awesome viewing points.
You can stand and watch kayakers tackle the rapids from just a few metres away! Plus, there are cool caves along the way that you can explore.
What’s more, there’s a grassy spot with picnic tables and toilets at the start of the track that’s perfect for a laid-back lunch.
The trail finishes up at Trout Pool, a serene fishing spot.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Okere Falls Store. They brew great coffee and have this chill beer garden where you can relax.
6. Kakahi Falls
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Kakahi Falls is best for people who like combining adventure with relaxation. It’s in Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve, so you do need to buy a ticket to visit.
The whole bush walk to explore the area is about 45 minutes, which is pretty manageable. Believe me, the moment you see Kakahi Falls, you’ll know it was worth it.
The combination of steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and the lush walk creates a unique setting that’s both serene and invigorating.
Pro Tip: You have options: either a bush walk ticket or a package that includes a geothermal bath and spa. Prices range from 35 to 90 NZD, so you can pick what suits you best.
7. Wairere Falls
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Wairere Falls are 30 metres (98 feet) over the Waitoharuru Cliffs. It’s perfect for photography enthusiasts on the hunt for that serene backdrop.
Getting to Wairere Falls is a breeze from Rotorua—just a 25-minute drive along well-maintained roads.
After parking at the historic Buried Village, don’t forget to grab your ticket at the office before heading out on the 40-minute track.
The trail winds through the village, providing a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past. It’s also a pretty straightforward route—no tricky climbs or river crossings, just a few stairs to navigate.
Definitely wear comfortable walking shoes; it makes a world of difference!
Pro Tip: Bring a light rain jacket and a camera with a good zoom lens! The mist from the falls can create a refreshing spray, which can be delightful on a warm day, but it also means your camera might get a little damp.
