Exploring the Tarawera Falls Track and Cascade Loop
The Cascade Loop Track is a continuation of the short Tarawera Falls Track, located in a remote area of the Bay of Plenty region. Start by walking the superb and scenic Tarawera Falls Walk to the Tarawera Falls viewpoint. Then hike to the top of the falls to explore the Cascade Loop, a short yet remarkable forest trail that winds around more waterfalls and chasms on the Tarawera River, before the river dives underground to emerge as the main falls from the cliff face.
Hike to the Top of the Cliff
From the Tarawera Falls viewpoint, continue along the track as it winds up through the forest, ascending 80 metres to the top of the cliff. This section of the track is rougher than that along the river below. Although rocks and trees partially obscure the view from the top, you still get a nice view of the valley below. From here, you can take the Cascade Loop track, an easy, superb 30-minute walk around a dynamic section of the Tarawara River.
Walking the Cascade Loop
As you begin the Cascade Loop, stay to the right when the track divides. This path leads you through a picturesque section of forest, eventually descending into a natural amphitheatre. Here, you will find a significant, unnamed waterfall where the Tarawera River cascades over a 4 to 5-metre cliff. The river then flows through the amphitheatre before vanishing into a ravine. Distinctive trees, ferns, lichen, and moss surround this enchanting area.
Although the Cascade Loop is not shown on Google Maps or Topo Map, it is well-signposted and easy to navigate once you are there.
Navigating the Return Path
After visiting these falls, look for the start of the return section of the Cascade Loop. This part of the track closely follows the river as it tumbles towards the underground entrance before the cliff. The path features steep steps and short bridges, running along the edge of a deep ravine, enveloped by native forest.
Swimming and Continuing the Adventure
While the pool below the unnamed falls may tempt you to swim, it is advised to heed the warnings given its proximity to the underground entrance. For a safe swimming spot, you can continue along the main track towards Lake Tarawera. The path leads to the top of the amphitheatre and eventually to a more suitable swimming location along the river. You can also extend your walk to the river outlet at Lake Tarawera, which is about a 90-minute journey each way from the start of the Cascade Loop.
How to Get There
The track is accessible from the Tarawera Falls car park. To get to the car park from Kawerau, take Waterhouse Street east from the town, across a bridge over the Tarawera River. This connects with gravel Tarawera Road, a forestry road, where you turn south and drive all the way to the car park at the end of the road. This private road is open only on weekends and public holidays, and you must first purchase a road permit at the iSite in Kawerau. The drive takes 31 minutes and is 24 km.
You can also take a boat across Lake Tarawera and walk from the river outlet.
If you are driving to or from Rotorua, you can also visit Lake Okataina and the Ngahopua Track and Te Auheke Track, and Hinehopu (Hongi's) Track at the eastern end of Lake Rotoiti.
