Wairere Falls
Waterfall Tall New Zealand waterfall with walking tracks
A walking track climbs to viewpoints over cascading tiers and rock pools at Wairere Falls, popular for short hikes, picnics and seasonal swimming beneath the falls.
Wairere Falls is a high waterfall in the northern North Island of New Zealand, known for its tall single drop and a short walking track that leads to viewpoints. It is a notable local natural landmark and a popular short walk for visitors to the area.
The main attraction is the waterfall itself and the viewpoint above the plunge where the stream drops over a cliff; the walking route includes stairs and sections with steep footing and offers views down the cascade. The surrounding bush is typical of lowland native forest and birdlife may be seen along the track.
The falls are formed where a stream drops from an elevated ridge; the site has been used as a local scenic attraction and track infrastructure has been provided to allow public access. The falls have remained a landscape feature of local significance.
Geographically the falls sit within the Auckland/nearby regional area of the North Island, on a forested ridge with road access to the trailhead from nearby towns and settlements.
- Track and viewing: A well-formed track leads to a viewing platform and the base of the falls; sections can be steep and slippery after rain.
- Height: Wairere Falls is one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls in the northern part of New Zealand's North Island, with an approximate height often cited around 150 metres.
How to Get to Wairere Falls #
The Wairere Falls trackhead is reached from the Karangahake / Matamata area depending on which Wairere Falls is intended; the most-visited Wairere Falls near Matamata is a drive from Matamata town (approximately 20-30 minutes). Follow local signage to the Wairere Falls carpark and trackhead; the route is best accessed by car.
Tips for Visiting Wairere Falls #
- Start the loop walk early to avoid crowds and catch the morning light on the falls.
- The track has steep and exposed sections near the top - bring a light jacket as winds can be brisk.
- Local operators offer guided walks if visitors prefer a more informed approach about geology and Maori legends.
Best Time to Visit Wairere Falls #
Visit in late spring through early autumn for good track conditions and fuller waterfall flow; early morning minimizes crowds.
Weather & Climate near Wairere Falls #
Wairere Falls's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in February) and cold winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 3°C to 22°C. Heavy rainfall (2078 mm/year), wettest in June, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 12°C. Significant rainfall (150 mm).
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February
February is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 12°C. Significant rainfall (146 mm).
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March
March is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 11°C. Significant rainfall (139 mm).
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April
April is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (154 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (145 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (227 mm).
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (170 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. Heavy rain (207 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 5°C. Heavy rain (225 mm) and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (165 mm).
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November
November is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (151 mm) and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (199 mm).
