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Waterfall · Matamata, Waikato
Wairere Falls
The tallest waterfall on the North Island, with about 153 meters of drop in the Kaimai Range near Matamata, reached by a native forest hike to a lookout and to the summit.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Wairere Falls
Wairere Falls is on the western slope of the Kaimai Range, about 15 km north of Matamata. With roughly 153 meters of drop over multiple tiers, it is the tallest on the North Island. Water descends from a plateau and runs down a cliff of volcanic rock, visible from the road at a distance.
The track, managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC), starts from a car park at the end of Goodwin Road. The path climbs along the stream through native forest with moss-covered rocks, boardwalks and steps, to a lookout facing the falls in about 45 minutes.
Those who continue climb about 45 minutes more to the top of the falls, where a platform sits at the edge of the cliff with views over the Waikato valley and the farms below.
Water volume varies greatly with rainfall: it is usually higher in winter and spring and lower in dry summers.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour and a half return to the lookout; 3 to 4 hours return if you go to the top.
Best time
After a few days of rain, when the falls usually have more water, and in the morning when the cliff is lit. Avoid the stair sections immediately after heavy rain, when they become slippery.
How to get there
By car, about 15 minutes from Matamata via SH27 and Goodwin Road to the DOC car park. There is no public transport to the track.
Tip
Wear footwear with good grip and bring water: the climb to the top is steep. Combine it with Hobbiton on the same day by leaving early for the falls.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Wairere Falls
What is the tallest waterfall on the North Island?
Wairere Falls, with about 153 meters of drop, near Matamata.
How long does the trail to Wairere Falls take?
About 45 minutes to the viewpoint and another 45 to the top, one way only.
Can you combine Wairere Falls with Hobbiton?
Yes. The falls are about 15 km north of Matamata and Hobbiton about 10 km from town; both can fit in the same day.