Rainbow Falls, Kerikeri

If you’re visiting Kerikeri and its historic stonehouse, be sure to take the leisurely stroll along the river to view the spectacular Rainbow Falls. Surrounded by tranquil native bush, these lovely falls are a perfect picnic spot. The walk takes just 10 minutes, following the Kerikeri River. Look out for native fantails and tuis along the way, and make sure you bring your togs for a dip in the swimming hole. There are viewing platforms and picnic facilities, and if you are in the mood for a longer walk, you can continue along the Kerikeri River Track (1.5hrs).

The Rainbow Falls, Māori name Waianiwaniwa, (Waters of the Rainbow), are a single-drop waterfall located on the Kerikeri River near Kerikeri in New Zealand. Unlike most New Zealand waterfalls which are created by the erosion of soft rock, the Rainbow Falls are sited on a hard basalt layer of rock beside softer mudstone. The falls were formed when water eroded the mudstone. The 27 metre waterfall is popular with tourists and is regularly photographed from an adjoining Department of Conservation area.

The Rainbow Falls Walk is along a track which takes about 10 minutes to traverse to connect to the Kerikeri River Track which is about 3.5 km long and takes about 1.5 hours to walk. It leads to the Kerikeri Basin where Kerikeri's old buildings are sited, the Stone Store, Mission House and St James Church, plus Rewa's Village and historic Kororipo Pa. The track follows the north bank of the River and passes through kiwi habitat and regenerating native trees such as stands of young kauri and totara.