Exploring the Kerikeri River Walk
Located in Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands, the Kerikeri River Walk is a scenic and accessible trail that follows the Kerikeri River. This well-maintained path accesses two waterfalls, modest rapids, and a variety of landscapes, including recovering native forest and farmland. The most popular section of the walk stretches from Kerikeri Basin to Rainbow Falls, taking about an hour each way. This route is also part of Te Araroa.
Distinct Sections of the Walk
Starting from the east end of the Landing Road car park, the walk crosses a grassy reserve, then enters a strip of regenerating native forest. Here, young tōtara trees dominate, interspersed with occasional mature trees. The trail provides views of the river, with the opposite bank covered in tall, mature eucalypt trees. As you continue, the path climbs briefly to a rocky cliff face, carved out by the river over time and marked by old rock slips. This section is notable for its gnarled pūriri trees.
Historic Sites and Scenic Views
After about 20 minutes, you will reach the small Historic Power Station, followed closely by Wharepoke Falls. Beyond the falls, the track passes through more tōtara regrowth before opening into scrubland. It crosses under the Heritage Bypass road and follows a fence line along the edge of farmland. As the track moves closer to the river, there are elevated views, with sections 20 to 30 metres above the water.
Fairy Pools and Kauri Trees
An informal side track leads to a spot where the river is accessible, featuring sedate rapids. Above the rapids is an area known as the Fairy Pools. Although the sign for the pools is further along the track, the pools are not easily accessible from this location. Continuing on, you will encounter kauri trees on both sides of the river, some of which are over 150 years old.
These trees are a reminder of the area's history, as their predecessors were among the first kauri milled in New Zealand.
Rainbow Falls
As you near the end of the walk, the sound of Rainbow Falls becomes audible. This waterfall is considered one of the most photogenic in the North Island. After exploring the large swimming hole below the falls, you can visit the viewpoints at the top before returning.
How to Get There
To access the east end of the track, you can take the Twin Coast Discovery Highway north from central Keriker, then turn east onto Waipapa Road, followed by a turn south onto Landing Road. You will find the car park at the end of the road. Alternatively, you can drive down Kerikeri Road and park near the Stone Store and Mission House, then cross the footbridge over the Kerikeri River to join the track. You can also join the track from Rainbow Falls Road.
Other waterfall walks in Kerikeri are Charlies Rock and Wairere Waterfall. Next to the Stone Store, you can also get access to the historical Kororipo Heritage Reserve.
