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Getting to Wairere Falls is simple if you have your own wheels. The best way to get there is to stop at the information centre in Matamata (i-site) and ask for a map!
The carpark at Wairere Falls is about 12km northeast of Matamata as the crow flies. You need to drive out towards Opal Springs and then past that to the end of that road. Then you turn left and drive until you reach an intersection on a blind corner and turn right.
All up, it's approximately a 15 minute drive from Matamata town.
Written Jan 2, 2005
When you see these Department of Conservations warning signs, take heed of them, as they will be there for a very good reason. New Zealand bush is dangerous and many visitors are injured by failing to heed general common sense rules, such as Read the Warning Sign and abide by it.
Written Jan 27, 2006
Phone: 111 for emergencies.
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If there is a strong Westerly wind, and especially after a wet storm, then there will be a lot of water flying around. This also makes the track wet and slippery.
Just take care with clambering over rocks for example, as you can slip and get seriously hurt.
Written Jan 4, 2005
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Just in case you wondered, the Wairere Falls track is definitely NOT suitable for Wheelchairs or people with mobility disabilities of extreme level.
As you can see the track is unlevel in places, and the staircase is tall and long.
If there has been heavy rain, the track can be quite slippery too, remembering that the ground is protected from the drying wind and sun by the bushy umbrella.
Written Jan 2, 2005
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Well if you suffer from vertigo, you may need to know about this.
As you can see in the photo, the staircase is rather steep and 'testing'.
Unique Suggestions: However, the railing is high and sturdy and you should be able to control your fear and make your way down with a little bit of concentration. You need to keep your eyes on the steps because it is very easy to lose your balance and fall.
Fun Alternatives: Well if you want to see the falls, there really is no alternative, apart from a very old distant track that takes a long time to walk.
Written Jan 2, 2005
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Favorite thing: Situated just 10 mins drive from Matamata, the Wairere Falls walk is a nice group activity if you are in the area. Just a 45 mins walk both ways, it doesn't take all day to do. I often walk up here with friends either at the beginning or the end of the day.
You can see the track is sometimes steep, and can be slippery when wet, but in general it is well maintained and easy to walk.
Fondest memory: I am particularly fond of the smell of New Zealand bush when it is wet.
Written Jan 2, 2005
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Favorite thing: There are a few placed on the walk to the falls where you must cross the river on one of these bridges. They are very sturdy and safe and you shouldn't have any problems crossing.
Fondest memory: I find these bridges very picturesque and a nice chance to take in the lovely surroundings, especially the bush, and having a rest as well. Normally there is no rush so no point in racing ahead without taking in what is around you.
Written Jan 2, 2005
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Fondest memory: The little streamlets that ran into the main waterway pouring away from the falls bottom pool were fantastically picturesque when I visited in January 2005.
Written Jan 2, 2005
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Favorite thing: I really enjoyed the scenes of cascading white water over the rocks in the stream that flows alongside the track to the viewing platform. The stream is strewn with boulders and those make some picturesque sights. There are several places where wobbly bridges cross the stream and so you can get some great pictures. Beware that many of the bridges can only bear 2 people at a time, so don't spend too long on them and hold up other walkers!
Written Jan 2, 2005
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Fondest memory: I'm not sure I'd say this was my fondest memory, but the walk to the viewing platform is enjoyable and memorable. In one place there is this amazing flight of stairs, up a sheer rock face.
Written Jan 2, 2005
Driving south on Hwy 27 you have probably seen Wairere Falls a million times over on the horizon. You may have even wondered, what it's name is and can you get there. So here are all the answers, and...
Spectacular waterfalls in Waikato.
The Wairere Falls are in the east of Waikato Region in North Island, New Zealand. The falls are visible from several kilometres away and plummet dramatically over the western flank of the Kaimai...
Build your own Wairere Falls page
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