At only an hour’s drive from Hamilton central, the Wairere Waterfall track is a great day walk option for anyone with a good level of fitness. The Wairere falls are the North Islands highest waterfall, dropping an impressive 153m from a plateau in the Kaimai ranges to the valley below. It is viewable from the Te Aroha-Okauia road, or for those wanting a closer look it is accessible via a reasonably rugged tramping track. Be sure to wear good quality footwear, tramping boots if possible, as the track is steep and rough in places and can be very muddy.
From the car park at the edge of the bush line, the track weaves through dense native bush on a well-established track. The track is well maintained, but can be quite rugged in places with extensive networks of tree roots and sections of moss covered rock. As you continue up the trail you start to follow an impressive bolder filled river at a gradual incline until you reach the first viewing platform at the base of the waterfall. This platform at around 45min into the hike gives a spectacular view of the waterfall. From the first viewing platform the track begins to steepen significantly as it climbs toward the ridge line and top of the Wairere falls. This part of the track is very rugged in places, and also features a couple of steep staircases. After around 45 minutes of climbing you reach the top of the ridge and are rewarded with an exceptional view over the Waikato plains.
 
Getting there:
The Wairere Falls are located around 15min from Matamata, on Te Aroha-Okauia road. There are numerous sign posts on the side of the road that should easily guide you in the right direction.
Map of where the Wairere Falls are in NZ. 1hr from Hamilton, 40min from Tauranga, 15min from Matamata
Track Details:
Distance – 5km return
Time – 3-4hrs return (depending on fitness)
Track Type – Tramping track (rough and slippery in winter or after rain)
Fitness Level – Moderate to good fitness
Dogs – No dogs allowed
What to bring:
Good quality footwear, tramping boots recommended in winter or after rain
Walking poles
Warm clothing
Waterproof jacket
Food and drink
AUTHOR
Durand Coldicott
Web Store Manager - Torpedo7 - @durand.nz on Instagram
