Discovering the Waiotemarama Waterfall
Waiotemarama Waterfall is a captivating natural feature located on the edge of the Waimā Forest on the Kauri Coast in Northland. This 20-metre waterfall cascades through an untouched rainforest, and through a rocky stream, strewn with lichen, shrubs and ferns. You can reach the falls with a short, picturesque walk.
Walking to the Waiotemarama Waterfall
The short 550-metre walk to the waterfall takes you above the Waiotemarama Stream gorge, with views of the forest surroundings and the stream at the base of the gorge. The forest is predominantly composed of tawa and taraire trees, adorned with lichen, mosses, and ferns. At the waterfall, you can explore the boulders around the pool at its base or venture down the stream into the picturesque gorge.
Hike the Hauturu Highpoint Track
For those seeking a longer adventure, the Hauturu Highpoint Track extends from the waterfall. This track begins where the path crosses an unbridged stream. Be prepared for a challenging journey, as the track can be rough and slippery, especially in wet conditions. It takes up to four hours to tramp the full 5.7 km each way.
How to Get There
To reach the Waiotemarama Waterfall, head about 4 km along Waiotemarama Gorge Road from State Highway 12. This route is located northwest of Waipoua Forest, just before the turnoff to Waimamaku Beach, also known as Kaikai Beach. From Dargaville, the drive is 80 minutes and 78 km.
Other places to visit along the Kauri Coast include Kai Iwi Lakes, Aranga Beach, Maunganui Bluff, Trounson Kauri Park, Te Matua Ngahere and Tane Mahuta.
