Okere Falls Scenic Reserve is a DOC-managed reserve on the Kaituna River, 21 kilometres from Rotorua on State Highway 33 (the Rotorua–Tauranga road). The reserve’s 1.2-kilometre walking track follows the river through native bush past a series of waterfalls — including the falls used as the launch point for commercial white water rafting on the Kaituna — and leads to the Tutea Caves and Hinemoa’s Steps, two sites with significance in Māori tradition. The track is easy and well-formed, suitable for most visitors. The reserve is free to visit. Dogs and bikes are not permitted in the reserve.
Practical Information
| Location | Trout Pool Road off SH33, 21km from Rotorua — on the Rotorua–Tauranga highway |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Track length | 1.2km; easy; 20–30 minutes return |
| Entry | Free; no permit required |
| Dogs and bikes | Not permitted in the reserve |
| Safety | Stay on the track — dangerously strong currents and waterfalls along the river |
The Track
The Ōkere Falls Track follows the Kaituna River through regenerating native bush, with elevated viewing platforms that look down into the river gorge and across the waterfalls. The Kaituna River drains Lake Rotoiti and descends steeply through the gorge at Okere Falls — the waterfalls here are the same drops used by commercial white water rafting operators who run the Kaituna, with the main fall at Okere being one of the more famous commercially rafted waterfalls in New Zealand. From the track you can watch rafters and kayakers working down the river below.
The track also passes the site of Rotorua’s first hydro-electric power station, which used the river’s flow before the site was decommissioned. Further along, the Tutea Caves are caves in the gorge wall with historical significance — named for a chief whose story is linked to this stretch of the Kaituna. The Hinemoa’s Steps, carved into the rock face at the river’s edge, are said to be where the legendary Hinemoa rested during her famous swim from the shores of Ōhinemutu to Mokoia Island on Lake Rotorua.
At night, glow worms can be seen in the darker sections along the track — the combination of waterfalls, caves, and glow worms makes an evening visit worthwhile for those staying nearby.
“The Okere Falls walk is one of the best short walks near Rotorua — the waterfalls are dramatic, watching the rafters was exciting, and Hinemoa’s Steps added real historical depth. Easy walk, big payoff.” — visitor account
Where to Learn More
DOC — Ōkere Falls Track — official track information, conditions, and access.
Tourism New Zealand — Okere Falls Scenic Reserve — visitor guide with track details.
Rotorua NZ — Okere Falls Track — local visitor information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Okere Falls Scenic Reserve?
On Trout Pool Road off SH33, 21km from Rotorua on the Rotorua–Tauranga highway. Approximately 20 minutes by car from central Rotorua.
How long is the Okere Falls walk?
The track is 1.2km, rated easy, and takes approximately 20–30 minutes. It is suitable for most fitness levels with some steps and viewing platforms.
Is the reserve free?
Yes — Okere Falls Scenic Reserve is a free DOC reserve with no permit required to visit.
Can I take my dog on the walk?
No — dogs are not permitted in Okere Falls Scenic Reserve.
What are Tutea Caves and Hinemoa’s Steps?
The Tutea Caves are historical caves in the Kaituna River gorge named for a Māori chief associated with this location. Hinemoa’s Steps are carved footholds in the rock face, said to be where the legendary Hinemoa rested during her famous night swim to Mokoia Island.
Can I see glow worms at Okere Falls?
Yes — glow worms are present in the darker sections of the track and can be seen after dark. An evening visit adds a different dimension to the walk.
Okere Falls Scenic Reserve is on SH33 toward Tauranga, east of Rotorua. See the Rotorua parks and reserves guide for other outdoor options, and the Lake Rotoiti Scenic Reserve guide for the lake that feeds the Kaituna River.
