The Wairere Falls is the highest waterfall on the North Island. Located at the southern end of the Kaimai Range, they drop 150 metres in two stages from the Kaimai escarpment.
Unusually for NZ, you can see them from quite a distance on the Hauraki Plain. However, that’s no excuse not to go on the hike, which we think is among the best on the North Island. Start with the shorter walk to the base of the falls, then hike up to the top. There are plenty of stairs to help you climb up. Allow 3 to 4 hours in total.
It is easy to get close to the edge at the top, but there is no real need to, as there is a well-placed viewing platform. Amazing views across the Waikato and plenty of regenerating forest complete the experience. The main south-to-north Kaimai tramping track also connects with the falls track.
To get there from Te Aroha, take the Te Aroha Road to Goodwin Road until it ends at the falls car park.
