Exploring Tarawera Falls in the Bay of Plenty
Located in the Bay of Plenty, accessible via Kawerau, Tarawera Falls is a captivating natural wonder, particularly striking after recent rainfall. Unlike typical waterfalls, the Tarawera River vanishes underground about 30 metres from the cliff's edge, only to reappear through narrow fissures and fractures in the rhyolite lava cliff face. This unique geological feature makes the falls a must-see.
Geological Features of Tarawera Falls
The cliff from which the falls emerge stands at 65 metres high, with the highest fissure slightly lower. Additional fissures and streams of water can be seen further down the cliff face. This impressive rock formation originated from a lava flow during an eruption from Lake Tarawera approximately 11,000 years ago.
Cultural Significance
The green rainforest encircling the viewing area enhances the beauty of the falls, providing a picturesque frame. For a closer view, you can scramble over the rocks below the falls. However, it's important to remember that the local iwi, Ngāti Rangitihi, regard the falls as sacred.
Getting to Tarawera Falls
Kawerau is a 55-minute drive from Rotorua and 30 minutes from Whakatane. To reach Tarawera Falls from Kawerau, first visit the iSite to get a road pass for Tarawera Road, a private forestry road that leads to the Tarawera Falls Road car park. Passes are only available for weekends and public holidays. From the iSite, head to Waterhouse Street on the east side of the town. This crosses the Tarawera River and connects with Tarawera Road. Head west on the gravel forestry road to the car park at the start of the Tarawera Falls Walk. Allow about 30 minutes for the 24 km drive, plus 10 minutes each way for the walk. Another option, available anytime, is to take a water taxi across Lake Tarawera to Tapahoro Bay, then follow the Tarawera Track for around 90 minutes to the falls.
You can also hike to the top of the falls and explore the spectacular Cascade Loop. From the loop, you can walk to Lake Tarawera as well, but it is easier to visit the lake by taking Tarawera Road (a different one) southeast of Rotorua..
