Wairere Falls Track is a 3.9 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Te Aroha, Waikato, New Zealand that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips.
The trail is a bit steep but the summit is worth the hike. It is most beautiful up in the summit. It was breath taking. The summit is a combi of river, boulders, mini falls, view of the valley and plain, strong winds making the main falls go back up and creates some sort of rainful. Just amazing. Worth the hike. Plenty and spaceous parking area. There is also heaps of benches for resting and eating.
low level of fitnesss needed to complete. Constant incline, but enjoyable to do if you're wanting a quick hike for the day. doc time is about 1.5hr each way. Can easily be done in under that for a reasonable fitness level. 50min up and 40 Down on a good day with not many people around.
Lookout is enough, not necessary to hike until the summit. You don't see the fall actually and the view is not Amazing. But the walk is in the forest so it keeps the fresh. Not a lot of birds, just Seen some fantails and heard a Tui. Can be a bit muddy but the track is ok.
I love this trail. There are so many beautiful spots to stop and swim. It's not an easy track and would not recommend for anyone with knee issues. There's a lot of rocks and roots so I would definitely recommend wearing trail shoes for extra grip as parts of the track can be slippery.
I recommend turning back once you reach the top of the falls. Beyond that point there isn't much to see, and the trail just ends at a crossing of trails randomly in the woods, at which point you just turn around and go right back th best you came. If you're thinking of taking the old Maori path for the return trip... I'd advise against it. There's a sign warning that it's steep and that the trail isn't maintained, and it's the truth. I ended up using my hands to help me down most of the way.
Lovely native bush with large boulders and streams. The waterfall is fantastic with panoramic views from the top. There are tracks at the top as well which are a nice walk along the river and through the bush, managed to find a second waterfall which was very picturesque.