Image: DOC
Campsite camping area with picnic seat.
Waiohine Gorge Campsite

Located in Tararua Forest Park in the Wairarapa region

This secluded campsite is at the head of two spectacular gorges above the Waiohine River. A popular area for rafting, canoeing, swimming, and outdoor education.
  • Clear water with deep pools and rocks to jump off.
  • Only an hour up river to unnamed creek which has another swing bridge and a great view of the river. 
  • Wade up stream to find a secret beach then float back down to bridge.

Fees

Payment with a DOC Campsite Pass is preferred. Otherwise, pay your fees with cash at the self-registration stand at the campsite or to the camp warden if present. Put the correct fee in the envelope provided and place the receipt section of the envelope on your vehicle or tent.

  • Adult (18+ years): $10 per night
  • Child (5–17 years): $5 per night
  • Infant (0–4 years): free

Passes

The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite. 

From Carterton drive through Matarawa. Follow Moffats Rd, Joseph Rd then Waiohine Gorge Rd to end. 18 km NW of Greytown.  

Waiohine Gorge Road is gravel with rough, narrow, and windy sections. There are two forded stream crossings. Drive carefully.

Location

18 km northwest from Greytown in the Tararua Forest Park.

NZTM2000 coordinates: E1800980, N5458936
Latitude: -40.9960276, Longitude: 175.39027388
  • Sandflies may be prolific near the river.
  • Swing bridge surface may not be suitable for some dogs.

Adventure activities

Visitors must contact DOC before using the abseiling site.

Walking and tramping

There are a number of short tracks that descend from Waiohine Gorge Road into the gorge, giving access for picnicking, swimming, fishing and watersports. At the end of Waiohine Gorge Road a track leads down to the river. Near the Waiohine Shelter another track leads down to the river. At the ford at Devil Creek a route leads down the creek to the river.

Longer walks start across the suspension bridge at the campsite.

Huts

Totara Flats Hut: 4–5 hrs from Waiohine Gorge Campsite

Cone Hut: 2–3 hrs from Waiohine Gorge Campsite