Last updated June 2026
Okere Falls Scenic Reserve is a Department of Conservation reserve on the Kaituna River, 21 kilometres east of Rotorua on State Highway 33. The reserve protects a series of dramatic waterfalls, including the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, and offers a short, easy walking track through regenerating native bush. The track provides elevated views of the river gorge, opportunities to watch rafters and kayakers, and access to culturally significant sites including Tutea Caves and Hinemoa’s Steps. It is free to visit, with public toilets and a picnic area at the main car park. Dogs and bikes are not permitted, and visitors must stay on the formed track due to dangerously strong currents and waterfalls.
Practical Information
| Location | Trout Pool Road off SH33, 21 km from Rotorua on the Rotorua–Tauranga highway |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Track | Short, easy, well-formed bushwalk with viewing platforms; approximately 20–40 minutes |
| Entry | Free; no permit required |
| Facilities | Public toilets and picnic area at main car park; trout pool nearby |
| Restrictions | Dogs and bikes not permitted; stay on the track at all times |
| Best time | Daylight hours; glow worms visible in darker sections after dark |
About Okere Falls Scenic Reserve
The reserve holds significant Māori cultural and spiritual value for Ngāti Pikiao. The Kaituna River, whose name translates as “eating eels,” has long provided food resources including eels, whitebait and kōura. Numerous battles were fought to protect these resources, and a pā once stood nearby. The area was originally known as Kōpuakino, meaning “the awful whirlpool.”
The Ōkere Falls Power Station, New Zealand’s first government-built hydro-electric station, opened in 1901 and supplied public electricity until it closed on 30 September 1939. Remnants of the site can be seen along the track. The river continues to attract international attention for its waterfalls and white-water rafting.
Hinemoa’s Steps were carved into the rock face in 1907 and lead to Tutea Cave, which guards the burial site of the chief Tutea. The steps are named after the legendary Hinemoa. Information panels along the track explain both the human and natural history of the landscape.
Walking the Ōkere Falls Track
The well-formed track follows the Kaituna River through native bush with multiple viewing platforms overlooking the waterfalls and gorge. From the main lookout near Hinemoa’s Steps, visitors can watch commercial rafters and kayakers descend the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world. The track also passes the site of the former hydro-electric station and offers views of the trout pool, a popular fishing spot where trout are often visible.
Geocaches are hidden along the route, and glow worms can be seen in darker sections after dark, making an evening visit rewarding for those equipped with torches. The short, easy nature of the walk makes it suitable for most visitors, including families, though some steps and platforms are present.
What Visitors Often Say
The short walk delivers dramatic waterfall views and the thrill of watching rafters below, with added interest from the cultural stories at Hinemoa’s Steps and Tutea Cave. The track is easy and well maintained, making it a popular choice for a quick stop near Rotorua.
Evening visits reveal glow worms in the darker sections, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the combination of natural scenery, history and the chance to see white-water action up close on a straightforward track.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Ōkere Falls Track: official track description, access details and safety information.
DOC — Ōkere Falls Scenic Reserve: reserve overview with cultural and historical context.
NewZealand.com — Okere Falls Scenic Reserve: visitor guide highlighting track features and Māori stories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Okere Falls Scenic Reserve?
It is located on Trout Pool Road off SH33, 21 km from Rotorua on the Rotorua–Tauranga highway, approximately 20–25 minutes by car from central Rotorua.
How long is the walking track?
The track is a short, easy bushwalk that typically takes 20–40 minutes to complete, with viewing platforms and some steps.
Is the reserve free to visit?
Yes, entry is free with no permit required. Public toilets and a picnic area are available at the main car park.
Can dogs or bikes use the track?
No, dogs and bikes are not permitted in Okere Falls Scenic Reserve.
What are Tutea Caves and Hinemoa’s Steps?
Tutea Cave guards the burial site of chief Tutea. Hinemoa’s Steps, carved in 1907, lead to the cave and are named after the legendary Hinemoa who swam to Mokoia Island.
Can I see glow worms at the reserve?
Yes, glow worms are visible in darker sections of the track after dark. An evening visit is worthwhile with a torch.
Is white-water rafting available here?
Commercial rafting operators use the Kaituna River waterfalls visible from the track, including the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world.
Are there fishing opportunities nearby?
The trout pool near the car park is a popular spot where trout can often be seen; fishing is subject to Fish & Game regulations.
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