Rainbow Falls (Waianiwaniwa) — Attraction in Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Community

Rainbow Falls (Waianiwaniwa) is a spectacular natural attraction that should be on every visitor’s itinerary when exploring the Bay of Islands region. This stunning waterfall, cascading 27 meters into a pristine pool below, is surrounded by lush native bush, creating a picturesque and tranquil setting.

The falls are easily accessible, with well-maintained walking tracks leading to several viewing platforms. These platforms offer breathtaking views of the falls from different angles, making it a great spot for photography. The sound of the roaring water and the sight of the rainbow that often forms in the mist are truly magical.

The area around Rainbow Falls is perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic. The trails are suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and there are informative signs that provide interesting details about the local flora, fauna, and history.

Highly recommend Rainbow Falls (Waianiwaniwa) for its stunning natural beauty, easy accessibility, and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or simply looking for a beautiful place to relax, this waterfall is sure to leave a...

The Māori name for the Rainbow Falls 🌈 is Waianiwaniwa, and it is a 27m single vertical, almost square drop waterfall located on the Kerikeri River 😊

It is called Rainbow Falls 🌈 because of the beautiful rainbows the sun 🌞 cast on the water 💧 Even when you are far from the waterfall 😲

I was quite in awe of the falls and wooded area 😍

Unlike most New Zealand 🇳🇿 waterfalls which are created by the erosion of soft rock, the Rainbow Falls are sited on a hard basalt layer of rock beside softer mudstone 🪨

There is a big carpark 🚗 with toilet blocks 🚻 There are 3 upper viewing platforms, about 5 minute walks in between. There is one lower, which leads to a very popular swimming hole 🏊‍♀️ surrounded by gorgeous native bird 🐦 and bush 🌴🌳 The lower track is a bit more intense, with steep inclines at places. The braver people can even walk to the back/behind the waterfall.

The walking tracks 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️ are all cement, gravel, or wood with no steps (except getting into the water), so suitable for people of all abilities 👩‍🦽 You can walk along the river bank for 4.5km, all the way to the...

An easily accessible scenic waterfall, where you can view, walk, and swim comfortably. The free parking lot has ample space and public toilets. Once you pass through the main entrance you can walk up to the viewing deck next to the falls, or you can walk down a steep track to the basin of the waterfall with a nice pool. Right next to the pool begins the walking trail that’s is approximately 4.3 KM long and is largely shaded, and mostly flat. There are a few inclines on the track but easily manageable by someone with basic level of fitness. The trail follows the river and also has some scenic spots on the way. There are only a few benches on the trail in case you want to rest. Visited on a summers public holiday and a lot of tourists were swimming...