Getting there
Access to Tarawera Outlet is from Kawerau township (off SH 30 between Rotorua and Whakatane) via private forestry roads which require permits. The forest gate is closed during the hours of darkness. The forest road may be closed in summer when fire risk is high.
Access permitsPermits cost $5 and must be collected on the day of entering the forest roads from: Kawerau Information Centre Plunket St, Kawerau
+64 7 323 7550
Open 8am - 4pm Monday - Sunday (closed Christmas Day)
Directions from KawerauWhen you drive into Kawerau turn off Tamarangi Drive into Islington Street, then turn right onto Onslow Street, left onto Fenton Street, right onto River Road and then left onto Waterhouse Street. You are now on private forestry roads. Follow Tarawera Road (Forestry) which then becomes Fentons Mill Road, and then turn left onto Waterfall Road.
About the areaThe spectacular Tarawera Falls — where water surges out of fissures in a large rock cliff-face surrounded by native bush. The cliff is the end of an ancient rhyolitic lava flow that is believed to have poured from an erupting Mt Tarawera about 11,000 years ago. An abrupt stop to the flow produced these high cliffs.
Vegetation here has developed since the 1886 Tarawera eruption. Both pohutukawa and rata are found. An unusual feature is the range of hybrids between these two closely related species that occurs in the area. Evidence of this interbreeding can be seen in the variety of different leaf shapes found on the forest floor here.
Description
Follow the track that leaves the carpark heading upstream along the Tarawera River. You will reach a bridge crossing over Tarawera River and the track continues upstream until you arrive at the falls viewing area where you can fully appreciate their splendour. Signs at the viewpoint explain the cultural and natural significance of the area.
Back-track to return to the carpark or continue along the tramping track to Tarawera Outlet(approximately another 2 hours one way).
Facilities: A toilet is located at the carpark. There is a viewing area with a seat at the falls.
Getting there