Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls is in the Wairēinga Scenic Reserve in the Waikato. It was established in the mid-1880s when most of the region was being converted to farmland. The waterfall tumbles over a basalt cliff that was created by an eruption on the nearby Okete vent, blocking the valley, about two million years ago.
It is an easy, short walk through mostly Tawa native forest to the top of a 55-metre waterfall on the Pakoka River. After standing on the platform over the top of the falls, walk down a steep series of 261 steps to the base, with more fantastic viewing platforms part way down and at the bottom.
Although the waterfall is particularly picturesque, swimming in the pool at the bottom is not safe. The Pakoka River travels through farmland before reaching the falls, and the water quality is poor.
To get to Wairēinga from Hamilton, take SH23 towards Raglan, then turn left onto Te Mata Road shortly before reaching Raglan. Follow Te Mata until you turn left again onto Kawhia Road, with the car park shortly after. The walk only takes about 20 minutes each way and is very popular, so try to avoid peak holiday times.
