Last updated July 2026
Waihi Falls is a 25-metre waterfall in the Waihi Falls Scenic Reserve, located 45 km east of Dannevirke in the Tararua District. The falls drop in a wide formation through bush and are reached by a short, easy walk from the roadside car park. The site offers family-friendly access with picnic facilities, making it a popular half-day outing from nearby towns.
The reserve covers approximately 22 hectares and provides clear views of the cascading water without requiring strenuous effort. Flow is strongest after rain, and the formed path suits most visitors. The location combines well with a visit to Dannevirke for a relaxed day trip.
Practical Information
| Location | Waihi Falls Road, Waione, Tararua District |
| Distance from Dannevirke | 45 km east, 40-60 minute drive (last 2 km gravel) |
| Distance from Palmerston North | Approximately 100 km, 1.5-2 hour drive |
| Walk | Easy 10-15 minute one-way path to viewing area; 15-20 minutes return |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Facilities | Car park, toilets, picnic tables and shelter, rubbish bins |
| Best for | Family day trips, picnic stops, easy waterfall viewing |
About Waihi Falls
Waihi Falls is a wide, multi-tier waterfall in the Waihi Falls Scenic Reserve. The 25-metre drop is visible from a formed viewing area reached by a short, easy path suitable for general fitness levels. The reserve provides a peaceful bush setting with clear sightlines of the falls.
The car park at the end of Waihi Falls Road includes toilets, picnic tables and a shelter. The path can become muddy after rain, and visitors should stay on the formed track. Photography is rewarding in soft light, and the falls are most impressive following rainfall.
Do not attempt to scramble closer to the base or swim at the falls. The site is dog-friendly on lead in appropriate areas. The reserve is managed by Tararua District Council and offers a straightforward visitor experience with basic facilities.
Combining With Dannevirke
Waihi Falls pairs well with a visit to Dannevirke, a town settled by Scandinavian immigrants in the 1870s. The town features heritage elements, cafes and a small museum. The combined outing provides a comfortable half-day to full-day trip from Palmerston North or surrounding areas.
What Visitors Often Say
Families and day-trippers note the easy access and scenic reward of the short walk to the viewing area. The combination of picnic facilities, toilets and the wide waterfall receives consistent positive feedback, especially after rain when flow is strong.
Practical comments highlight the gravel section of road, the need for appropriate footwear after wet weather, and the value of combining the visit with time in Dannevirke. Visitors recommend staying on the path and bringing picnic supplies.
Where to Learn More
Tararua District Council: official information on parks, reserves and Waihi Falls.
Tararua tourism: visitor details and directions for Waihi Falls and the district.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Waihi Falls?
In the Waihi Falls Scenic Reserve on Waihi Falls Road, Waione, 45 km east of Dannevirke in the Tararua District.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes. The short, easy path and picnic facilities make it suitable for families and general visitors.
How long is the walk?
Approximately 10-15 minutes one way on a formed path; allow 15-20 minutes return.
Can I swim at the falls?
No. Visitors should stay at the viewing area and not attempt to swim or scramble closer.
Are there toilets?
Yes, toilets are available at the car park along with picnic tables and a shelter.
When are the falls best?
After rain for strongest flow; soft morning or late afternoon light suits photography.
What else can I do nearby?
Combine with Dannevirke for its Scandinavian heritage features, cafes and museum.
Is the road sealed?
Most of the route is sealed, but the final 2 km is gravel.
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