Kaiate Falls — Attraction in North Island

Beautiful and relaxing here(though unless you are walking back up the stairs which is a great work out)stunning view of the Mauao (mount area)from the start of the track turn left and it takes you back to the bridge you went over to get up to the carpark, lovely along the waters edge and you are at the top of the first waterfall. Turn right at start of track and go down to look up at stunning mini waterfalls, with rock formations surroundings.. Then across the wee bridge to the left down stairs to another bigger waterfall cascading over beautiful mossy rocks into a water pool. Love this place, the bird sounds, the sunlight through the trees, the noise of the waterfalls, the simplicity of nature, the freshness in the air, just a wonderful place to...

-1/2 star because the trail is so short; don’t come here expecting a long hike or run (although would make a great stair workout)! But the drive in via beautiful rural farmland with rolling hills, the views from the top, and the many sets of beautiful raging waterfalls at the bottom make for an epic couple hours. You’re even allowed to camp there in a vehicle for up to 3 days, according to signage! Parking lot is very small though, enough room for maybe 10-20 cars, so not ideal for a huge RV.

The other -1/2 star is because I was hoping to swim, but there’s a sign “recommending against swimming” due to “microbial organisms” - not sure what that means exactly, but as a foreigner, I figured it was best to heed the warning and just admire the...

Kaiate falls are a must see when visiting Tauranga. Good parking, clearly sign posted from welcome bay road. The path is very steep and what goes down must come back up, so be prepared for Abit of a work out. The bush keeps the sun off and it is surprisedly co in the valley. Take plenty of water cause you can't drink water from the river. Although there is a sign stating that the water is contaminated and unfit or swimming there are always plenty of people swimming in summer. I guess it's at your own risk. Take bread to feed the trout and eels in the bottem pool,bits always fun to see them. Allow at least an hour for walking time, more if you intend to play...