1.5 Hrs 3.4km(return)

Highlights

  • Lush native forests
  • Swing bridge
  • Waterfall

Proximity

  • by car:

    2 hrs 10 mins from Nelson

GRADE: EASY

There are steep drops off the edge in some places.

Walk through stunning native bush on the way to Wainui Falls, the largest falls in Golden Bay.

Follow the track as it crosses open farmland and enters a native forest of nikau palms, rata trees and ferns. Here the track climbs rapidly, occasionally offering glimpses of the Wainui River some distance below.

Along the way keep a look out for New Zealand's giant native snail, Powelliphanta. Look but don't touch!

Cross the river at the swing bridge and a few minutes later you will hear the thunder of the falls, before they appear suddenly, curtained in a halo of spray.

Department of Conservation

Track conditions often change. Be prepared by checking with the Department of Conservation before you go.

Wainui Falls Track(opens in new window)

More information

Getting there

  • The track starts Wainui Bay carpark, 20 km north-east from Takaka.
  • Look for signpost 300m after the Wainui River Bridge.

Need to know

  • Tramping boots or walking shoes are recommended.
  • There are steep drops off the edge of the track in some places.

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