Last updated July 2026
Cascade Falls is a 10-metre waterfall in the Lake Ōkataina Scenic Reserve, reached via the Te Auheke Track, a short loop walk roughly 20–30 minutes’ drive from Rotorua. The track name means “tumbling water” in te reo Māori and reflects the way the falls cascade over rock protrusions rather than dropping in a single sheet. The surrounding native bush is dense with ferns and moss, and the area is managed by the Department of Conservation. At night the banks and rock faces beside the track and falls host thousands of glow worms, making it a popular free after-dark destination. Entry is free and there are no facilities on site.
Practical Information
| Track | Te Auheke Track (Cascades Track) — 1.5 km loop |
| Grade | Easy; 40-minute loop; approximately 30 m elevation gain |
| Start | Behind the Lake Okataina Outdoor Education Centre on Okataina Road (turn off SH30 at Ruato) |
| Reserve | Lake Ōkataina Scenic Reserve (DOC managed) |
| Entry | Free |
| Facilities | None — no toilets or changing facilities |
| Night visit | Glow worms best viewed after full dark; bring a torch (red light preferred) and walk carefully |
About Cascade Falls
The falls tumble approximately 10 metres over a wide cliff face draped in moss, ferns and foliage. Water flows through and around numerous rock protrusions, creating the cascading effect that gives the falls their name. The track is a circuit that passes several smaller cascades before reaching the main viewpoint, so the walk itself offers continuous interest through lush native forest.
The Te Auheke Track starts at the rear of the field behind the Outdoor Education Centre. It is well-formed and suitable for most fitness levels, with only modest elevation change. Weekday visits are often quiet, allowing visitors to enjoy the setting in relative solitude.
The Lake Ōkataina Scenic Reserve protects a scenic area of native bush around the lake. The reserve is popular for short walks and offers a peaceful contrast to Rotorua’s more developed attractions.
Glow Worms at Night
After dark the track and falls area become one of Rotorua’s best free glow-worm locations. Thousands of Arachnocampa luminosa illuminate the banks, rock faces and vegetation along much of the loop. Visitors should arrive after full darkness, move slowly and quietly, and allow their eyes to adjust. A red-light torch helps navigation without disturbing the glow worms. The display is often described by visitors as dramatic and comparable to commercial sites, with the added advantage of very low visitor numbers.
What Visitors Often Say
The night-time glow-worm display around the falls is repeatedly called extraordinary and well worth the short drive, with many visitors noting they had the track almost to themselves.
Daytime walkers praise the lush forest setting, the variety of smaller cascades along the loop, and the easy, well-formed track suitable for families.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Lake Ōkataina Walking Tracks: official details and maps for the Te Auheke Track and other walks in the reserve.
DOC — Lake Ōkataina Scenic Reserve: overview of the reserve, access and permitted activities.
Walk My World — Te Auheke Track to Cascade Falls: detailed visitor guide with directions and day/night descriptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Cascade Falls?
It lies in the Lake Ōkataina Scenic Reserve. The Te Auheke Track starts behind the Outdoor Education Centre on Okataina Road, reached by turning off SH30 at Ruato, approximately 20–30 minutes from Rotorua.
How long is the walk?
The Te Auheke Track is a 1.5 km loop that takes about 40 minutes at an easy pace with roughly 30 m of elevation gain.
Are glow worms visible during the day?
No. The glow worms are only visible after full darkness. Visit at night for the best display.
Is it safe to visit at night?
The track is manageable with a torch, but the terrain is uneven in places and the reserve is remote. Go with at least one other person, tell someone your plans, and use a red-light torch to minimise disturbance to the glow worms.
Are there toilets or other facilities?
No facilities are provided at the track or falls. Plan accordingly, especially for night visits.
Can dogs be taken on the track?
Dogs are not permitted in the Lake Ōkataina Scenic Reserve.
Is the track suitable for children?
Yes, the easy, well-formed loop is suitable for most families with children, though supervision is required at night.
Is entry free?
Yes, there is no charge to use the Te Auheke Track or visit Cascade Falls.
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