Discover Charlies Rock Waterfall
Charlies Rock is a captivating waterfall located in Kerikeri, Northland. This natural attraction was once inaccessible due to surrounding orchard developments. However, in 2010, local high school students collaborated with the council to create a track, making the falls accessible to the public. The waterfall is a popular spot for locals, and you might witness daring individuals jumping off the cliff. However, this activity is risky and should only be attempted with local knowledge, skill, and confidence.
The Scenic Beauty of Charlies Rock
Charlies Rock waterfall stands 12 metres high and is approximately 24 metres wide. The Waipapa Stream flows over a volcanic basalt formation, 10 million years old, forming a U-shaped amphitheatre around a large, deep swimming hole. The columnar basalt rock and cliffs enhance the visual appeal of this location, creating a striking natural setting.
Walking to the Falls
Reaching the falls involves a 15-minute walk from a discreetly marked track on Landing Road. The path initially skirts a paddock before entering a narrow, scenic strip of regenerating forest along the stream's edge. While the walk is generally easy, it can be muddy and is rocky in some areas. After about 10 minutes, you'll arrive at the edge of the rock amphitheatre, where you can access the pool below the falls directly from the track. The path then ascends steeply to the top of the amphitheatre, ending at the top of the waterfall.
How to Get There
To visit Charlies Rock from Kerikeri town centre, head north on Heritage Bypass Road. At the roundabout, turn east onto Waipapa Road. Continue to the next roundabout and turn north onto Landing Road. The track access is approximately 1.2 km along Landing Road, just before Waipapa Landing, where Waipapa Stream flows into Kerikeri Basin. You can park beside the reserve at the landing and walk back about 60 metres to the track access on the north side of the road. The drive is 3.4 km and takes a few minutes.
Kerikeri is a hotspot for scenic waterfalls, where water tumbles over basalt rock cliffs. Check out Rainbow Falls, Wharepoke Falls and Te Wairere Falls.
