Tag Archives: Wairere Falls

Ancient Maori Trail at Wairere Falls

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There are two alternative tracks from the carpark on Goodwin Road to the top of the Wairere Falls, In the Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park, east of Matamata. The main track passes by the lower falls lookout on the way to the top. The alternative route, which is only signposted where it joins up with the main track near the top of the falls, is signposted as “Ancient Maori Trail (Very Steep and Not Maintained)”.

The sign is not wrong. The track is steep and not very well marked, although there are occasional orange triangular DoC markers to show the way. Otherwise it is more or less necessary to follow a visual trail showing previous use. The lower junction with the main track is unfortunately not signposted, and can be difficult to locate. Since the track is steep, rough, and slippery in places it is easier to walk uphill than downhill. Continue reading →

Wairere Falls

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The Wairere Falls track is accessible from the end of Goodwin Rd, off Old Te Aroha Rd. There is a carpark at the end of the road, and the track starts by the carpark.

The track to the falls lookout is a relatively easy walk, with some steps on the way, but the track from the lookout to the top of the falls is quite steep in places. There is a lookout at the top of the falls, but the falls themselves are not visible from this lookout.

The falls are at their most spectacular after heavy rainfall over a longer period of time. During the summer months with little rainfall the stream becomes just a trickle, and not as interesting to visit. Continue reading →