Beautiful Waterfalls throughout the Rotorua region
Rotorua, celebrated for its geothermal wonders and rich Māori heritage, is also home to an array of stunning waterfalls, each offering a unique experience of nature’s beauty. From impressive plunges to tranquil cascades, these waterfalls invite visitors to explore and connect with the region’s natural charm. This guide dives into the top waterfalls in and around Rotorua, providing insights into their distinct features and how to experience them.
Open your senses to the serene beauty of Kerosene Creek, where thermal springs await—discover what makes this hidden gem near Rotorua unforgettable.
Get ready to explore Tarawera Falls, a breathtaking 65-meter waterfall near Rotorua—discover its beauty and the adventures that await!
Learn about Tutea Falls, a stunning 7-meter cascade in Rotorua, and discover the thrilling adventures that await just beyond its beauty.
Breathe in the serenity of Cascade Falls, where nature’s beauty and rich history await—discover what makes this hidden gem a must-visit.
Location: Okere Falls Scenic Reserve, approximately 21 kilometres from Rotorua on Trout Pool Road.
Description:
Tutea Falls is famous as the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, with a thrilling seven-metre drop. Situated along the Kaituna River, this waterfall offers an exhilarating view, especially if you catch a rafting group navigating the descent. For those not inclined to raft, the Okere Falls Track provides access to fantastic viewpoints, allowing you to admire Tutea Falls from above.
Access:
The Okere Falls Track is an easy and scenic trail with several lookout points. Suitable for all fitness levels, this well-maintained path features interpretive signs detailing the area’s history and natural features, including the significance of the falls in local Māori culture.
Location: Lake Tarawera Scenic Reserve, accessible via a forestry road, which requires a permit.
Description:
Tarawera Falls is a dramatic 65-metre waterfall known for its unique flow that emerges directly from fissures in a cliff face, creating an almost surreal effect. The origins of this geological phenomenon trace back to a lava flow from Mount Tarawera’s volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, which shaped the surrounding landscape.
Access:
To reach Tarawera Falls, visitors need to drive to the trailhead via a forestry road, accessible only with a permit obtained from the Kawerau Information Centre. From the car park, a short 20-minute walk leads to the falls, making this destination both family-friendly and rewarding for nature lovers.
Location: Okere Falls Scenic Reserve, near Tutea Falls on the Kaituna River.
Description:
The Okere Falls area features a series of captivating cascades that draw both adventure seekers and those looking for serene river views. Okere Falls is a favoured spot for white-water rafting and kayaking, while the walking track offers beautiful vantage points for those preferring a more relaxed experience.
Access:
The Okere Falls Track provides a leisurely walk that’s suitable for all ages. Along the way, information panels recount the history of the area, including the remnants of Rotorua’s first hydro-electric power station, which once harnessed the river’s energy.
Location: Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park, approximately 15 minutes from Rotorua.
Description:
Kakahi Falls, located within Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park, is the largest hot waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere. This unique hot spring waterfall is deeply significant to Māori culture, having been used for centuries for its therapeutic properties. The mineral-rich waters were traditionally used by Māori warriors for healing and rejuvenation.
Access:
The falls are part of Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park, which requires an entry fee. Visitors can explore the geothermal features via boardwalks, including Kakahi Falls, and have the option to enjoy spa experiences, such as mud baths, if they wish to extend their visit.
Location: Whakarewarewa Forest (Redwoods), near Rotorua.
Description:
Nestled in the lush, scenic Whakarewarewa Forest, also known as the Redwoods, Wairere Falls is a charming waterfall surrounded by towering redwoods and native New Zealand flora. The falls are part of a larger network of walking and biking trails in the forest, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Access:
The trail to Wairere Falls begins at the main entrance of the Whakarewarewa Forest and is an easy walk suitable for families. The well-marked trail meanders through the serene forest, offering a quiet escape and picturesque views of the falls.
Location: Approximately 35 kilometres south of Rotorua, off Old Waiotapu Road.
Description:
Kerosene Creek is a unique hot spring waterfall surrounded by native bush. Here, visitors can enjoy a warm, natural soak as the stream flows through the forest and creates small pools. The creek’s tranquil setting, combined with its naturally heated waters, makes it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Access:
A short walk from the parking area leads to Kerosene Creek, which is free to visit. As a natural site with no facilities, visitors are encouraged to practise Leave No Trace principles and keep the area clean for others to enjoy.
Location: Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve, approximately 26 kilometres south of Rotorua.
Description:
Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve is home to a hidden waterfall, which is surrounded by vibrant geothermal landscapes and scenic views. The reserve is known for its strikingly colourful cliffs and crater lakes, giving visitors a fascinating mix of geothermal and lush natural beauty.
Access:
Walking trails within the reserve lead to the waterfall, with sections of varying difficulty. Rainbow Mountain is particularly popular with hikers and photographers due to the contrast between the brightly coloured rocks and the native bush.
Location: Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, approximately 30 kilometres south of Rotorua.
Description:
While Wai-O-Tapu is renowned for its geothermal features, including the Champagne Pool and Lady Knox Geyser, the park also features small waterfalls that add to its surreal landscape. These cascading waters, paired with the bubbling mud pools and hot springs, create an otherworldly atmosphere.
Access:
Entry to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is ticketed, and the trails are well-marked, guiding visitors through the geothermal area, including these lesser-known waterfalls. With vivid colours and unique formations, Wai-O-Tapu is a must-see for any Rotorua visitor.
Location: Lake Tarawera, accessible only by boat or hiking the Tarawera Trail.
Description:
Te Rātā Bay, also known as Hot Water Beach, is home to a hidden gem: a natural hot waterfall that flows into Lake Tarawera. The geothermal activity beneath the sand warms the water, allowing visitors to dig shallow pools along the shore and enjoy the mix of hot and cold waters.
Access:
Te Rātā Bay can be reached via water taxi or by hiking the scenic 15 km Tarawera Trail, which takes approximately five hours one way. For those choosing the hiking option, the trail provides views of the lake and surrounding mountains, making it a rewarding journey in itself.
Rotorua’s waterfalls offer a rich variety of landscapes and experiences, from the thrilling Tutea Falls and tranquil Wairere Falls to the geothermal magic of Kakahi Falls and Te Rātā Bay. These natural wonders provide visitors with opportunities to connect with Rotorua’s diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage, whether through thrilling rafting adventures or quiet hikes.
Rotorua’s waterfalls are more than just scenic spots; they are part of the region’s unique natural and cultural landscape. So grab your camera, hiking boots, or perhaps even a bathing suit, and set out to explore the unforgettable waterfalls of Rotorua! Each location offers a unique experience that will leave you in awe of New Zealand’s natural beauty and Rotorua’s distinct geothermal character.
Discover New Zealand’s most beautiful waterfalls across regions, forests, and hidden gems:
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© June 13, 2025 | Explore Rotorua