New Zealand · Waikato, North Island
Wairere Falls
The North Island's tallest waterfall drops off the Kaimai Range in a single dramatic plunge, reached by a forest track that climbs steeply to a lookout roughly level with the top of the falls. It sits a short drive from Matamata, better known to many travelers as the real-world home of Hobbiton.
The North Island's tallest waterfall drops off the Kaimai Range in a single dramatic plunge, reached by a forest track that climbs steeply to a lookout roughly level with the top of the falls. It sits a short drive from Matamata, better known to many travelers as the real-world home of Hobbiton.
Wairere Falls drops 153 metres (502 ft) on the Wairere Stream, inside Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park. It is a plunge-type fall, and the nearest base for a visit is Matamata, with HLZ the closest airport. Access to the main viewpoint is rated moderate.
Spring and autumn give clear, mild conditions for the steep forest climb to the upper viewpoint.
What you can do here
Hiking
From ten-minute boardwalks to multi-day approaches through cloud forest.
Photography
Light angles, moonbows, spray management and the hours that actually work.
When to go
Spring and autumn give clear, mild conditions for the steep forest climb to the upper viewpoint.
Entry: Free
Getting there
- Base townMatamata
- AirportHLZ
- CountryNew Zealand
- RegionWaikato, North Island, Oceania
- AccessModerate — a real walk — expect stairs, uneven ground or an hour on the trail
On the map
-37.7292, 175.7719
Quick answers
How tall is Wairere Falls?
Wairere Falls drops 153 metres (502 feet). It is a plunge-type waterfall on the Wairere Stream.
When is the best time to visit Wairere Falls?
Peak flow is March to April and October to November. Spring and autumn give clear, mild conditions for the steep forest climb to the upper viewpoint.
What can you do at Wairere Falls?
Beyond the viewpoints: hiking and photography. Access to the main viewpoint is rated moderate — a real walk — expect stairs, uneven ground or an hour on the trail.
How do you get to Wairere Falls?
The usual base is Matamata, and the closest airport is HLZ. A real walk — expect stairs, uneven ground or an hour on the trail from there. Free.
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