Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Ward

Hidden gems in Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Ward

Northland Hidden Gems

This collection highlights the geological diversity of Northland, from the 27-metre basalt drop of Rainbow Falls to the limestone formations of the Waiomio glowworm caves. The list features several cascades along the Kerikeri River Track, including Wharepuke and Te Wairere, alongside the horseshoe-shaped Haruru Falls. These sites showcase the region’s volcanic history and dense native forest, providing access to secluded caves and multi-tiered waterfalls located within the Waitangi and Hokianga districts.

Northland Hidden Gems — Map

Gadfium / Public domain

A

Haruru Falls

Haruru Falls is a five-metre-high waterfall near the settlement of Haruru in the Far North District of New Zealand, three kilometres west…

B

Wharepuke Falls

A five-metre-high cascade located on the Kerikeri River Track. The falls flow over basalt rock into a deep pool surrounded by native bush.

C

Rainbow Falls

Also known as Waianiwaniwa, this 27-metre waterfall plunges over a basalt ledge. It is accessible via a short walk from the Kerikeri River Track.

D

Double Falls

A pair of parallel waterfalls located near Kerikeri. The falls are formed by the stream splitting over a rocky ledge in a bush setting.

E

Merumeru Falls

A secluded waterfall located within the Waitangi Forest, reached via a short walking track through native vegetation.

F

Te Wairere Waterfall

Located on the Wairere Stream near Kerikeri, this waterfall is part of a historic route used by Māori and early European settlers.

G

Wairere Falls

A multi-tiered waterfall located near Panguru in the Hokianga region, featuring several drops through dense forest.

H

glowworm caves

Limestone caves in Waiomio featuring stalactites, stalagmites, and colonies of Arachnocampa luminosa glowworms. The site is privately managed by the Kawiti family.

I

Jellicoe Cave

A natural cave formation located in the Hokianga region near Panguru.

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