Maraetotara Falls, Maraetotara 4294, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand
A scenic Maraetotara Falls can be found along the popular Maraetotara Historic Walk, close to the site of the old Havelock North Power Station. An easy drive from Napier, pleasant walk and a huge swimming spot at the base of this waterfall, make Maraetotara Falls hugely popular place among the locals.
Maraetotara Falls is roughly a 40 minutes’ drive away from Napier. The road surface is always sealed.
From Napier travel south on the SH-2 for 11 km, then in Clive turn left into Mill Rd and follow it for the next 1.5-2 km. Turn right into Lawn Rd and stay on it for the next 3 km until the intersection with Te Mata Mangateretere Rd, then turn left into Te Mata Mangateretere Rd which becomes Waimarama Rd. Cross the Tukituki River over the bridge, and keep to the road for the next 4 km, then turn right into Maraetotara Rd. A small parking area is on your right – 3 km from beginning of the road. There are no facilities there.
An easy Maraetotara Historic Walk leads to the base of the waterfall. From the parking walk down the wooden stairs, then at the junction turn left. The track follows the river, and it takes only 10 minutes to reach the waterfalls’ lookout. Return via the same track.
A swimming spot at the base of the waterfall is extremely popular among the locals, so don’t forget a towel. Some people jump from the top of the falls, but it is very dangerous, and we would not recommend to do it.
Epic New Zealand Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound
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