Tarawera Falls is a 65m high waterfall of breathtaking beauty. You must purchase a permit ($20pp) to access this track and waterfall from the information center in Kawerau. The road to get here is long and gravel, so not suitable for small cars. The 20 minute walk each way is very pleasant and there are one or two spots to stop and admire the clear springs along the riverside.

Further info

The river leading up to the falls, the Tarawera River, flows out of Lake Tarawera and across a rhyolitic lava flow that erupted from Mt Tarawera about 11,000 years ago. After rain, part of the flow passes over the top of the cliff as a 65m tall companion fall, creating an amazing sight.

The Te Arawa and Ngāti Awa tribes have traditional associations with this site, making the area one of great cultural significance. It's a spot full of natural wonder and has something for everyone - from migrating eels to an unusual range of hybrids between pohutukawa and rata.