Kerikeri River Track
Located in Kerikeri area in the Northland region
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Introduction
Follow the bank of the Kerikeri River through regenerating forest and discover the remains of an historic power house, and Wharepuke and Rainbow Falls - it's a great option for walking children.3.5 km one way
Dog access
Image gallery
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Wharepuku Falls Image: Russell Street | Creative Commons
![Wharepuku Falls.]( "Wharepuku Falls.")
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Kerikeri River Image: Jeffrey Cornwell | DOC
![Kerikeri River.]( "Kerikeri River.")
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Rainbow Falls Image: Russell Street | Creative Commons
![Rainbow Falls.]( "Rainbow Falls.")
This is part of the Te Araora Trail.
You can also walk the track in the reverse direction.
The track passes through stands of young kauri, tōtara and associated native vegetation. As you walk along the track, you will pass the remains of the historic Kerikeri hydro-election station, built as part of the hydro-electric generation scheme that operated between 1930 and 1967. The building’s remains are open to the public.
You can see interesting rock formations close to the Wharepuke Falls. At the base of these falls is a popular swimming-hole.
Ten minutes westward along the river from the Wharepuke Falls, the Kerikeri River Track goes under the Heritage Bypass and takes you to a seating area at the Fairy Pools.
10,000 Steps Northland: This track equates to about 4,667 steps.
Fishing is allowed in the Kerikeri River. Fishing permits and information are available from Fish & Game New Zealand.
The Kerikeri River Track starts in the Kerikeri Basin Reserve and ends at the Rainbow Falls, Kerikeri.
Access the track from
- the carpark at the start of Landing Road
- Rainbow Falls Road
- Heritage Bypass, north of the bridge
- Edkins Road, signposted between 33 and 37 Edkins Road
- Dogs are not permitted on the walking tracks in the Kerikeri Basin due to the risk they pose to kiwi and other wildlife.
- Parking, picnicking and a BBQ area in the Kerikeri Basin Recreation Reserve at the eastern end of the track. To get there – travel along the Heritage Bypass, turn right into Waipapa Road, then right into Landing Road. The Kerikeri Basin Recreation Reserve is at the far end of Landing Road.
- Parking and picnic facilities are also at the western end of the track – access from Rainbow Falls Road.
Safety
- Carry warm, waterproof clothing, and food and drink, even on short walks. Stout shoes or walking boots are advisable.
- Before leaving for your walk, make sure your vehicle is locked and any valuables out of sight.
Related links
- Kerikeri hydro station
- The Kerikeri River Track is part of the Te Araroa Trail
The Kerikeri River, at the Wharepuke Falls, and the larger Rainbow Falls, tumbles over basalt lava fields, which flowed into the river valley following volcanic eruptions some 200 million years ago.
Contacts
| DOC Customer Service Centre | |
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| Phone | 0800 275 362 |
| bayofislands@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | DOC offices |