Best Swimming Spots in Northland (Complete Guide)
Northland is New Zealand's northernmost region, with powerful waterfalls, hidden limestone gorges and crystal-clear river pools. This guide covers two of Northland's best freshwater spots, both featured in Swim New Zealand – North Island.
Find this and dozens more in Swim New Zealand – North Island: directions, access notes and safety tips. Printed guides include 12 months of the Explorer app free. Get the guide →
Why Visit Northland's Waterfalls and Gorges?
Northland's warm, subtropical climate makes it one of the most pleasant parts of New Zealand for a summer dip. The region has limestone formations, powerful waterfalls and spring-fed streams with exceptional water clarity, and it's often less crowded than the big-name tourist areas.
Waterfalls
1. Rainbow Falls (Waianiwaniwa): Kerikeri's Iconic Waterfall
Location: end of Rainbow Falls Road, a few minutes from Kerikeri
Walk: about 10 minutes one way from the car park
Best for: families, photography, an easy walk
Rainbow Falls is named for the shimmering arcs of colour that appear in the mist when sunlight hits the cascade. The 27-metre waterfall plunges into a deep jade-green pool framed by dark basalt cliffs and native bush. Its Māori name, Waianiwaniwa, means "waters of the rainbow".
What makes it special: the rainbow mist, easy access from Kerikeri, a free DOC track with viewing platforms, and toilets and picnic areas at the car park. DOC doesn't recommend swimming here because of the risks around the waterfall and the old weir, so enjoy it from the platforms. Rainbow Falls is a wāhi tapu of Ngāpuhi: keep to formed paths, never climb the cliffs and leave plants undisturbed. DOC track information.
Hidden Gorges and River Pools
2. Waipu Gorge Swimming Hole: Limestone Gorge
Location: inland from Waipu
Water temperature: cool freshwater
Best for: secluded swimming, nature lovers
Waipu Gorge is a shaded limestone gorge carved by one of Northland's clearest streams. The water filters through karst rock and emerges cool, clean and strikingly clear, with deep pools beneath fern-draped cliffs and native bush. This secluded swimming hole feels wild and untouched.
What makes it special: crystal-clear limestone water, a secluded natural amphitheatre and a peaceful atmosphere. It's a free scenic reserve with roadside pull-over parking only and no facilities. Stay on the track, leave no trace, and keep sunscreen and soaps out of the stream.
Planning Your Northland Trip
Best time to visit
- Summer (December to March): warmest water and the best swimming conditions.
- Autumn (April to May): still warm, with fewer crowds.
- Winter (June to August): cold water, but the waterfalls are more dramatic.
- Spring (September to November): warming up, with lush growth.
Getting there
- Auckland: about 3 hours to Kerikeri, 1.5 hours to Waipu.
- Whangārei: about 1 hour to Kerikeri, 30 minutes to Waipu.
What to bring
- Sturdy water shoes (rocks can be slippery)
- Towel and swimwear
- Sunscreen (biodegradable, and let it soak in before swimming) and a hat
- Insect repellent
- Water and snacks
Safety tips
- Rocks near waterfalls are extremely slippery, and there are steep drops beside the Rainbow Falls track; supervise children.
- The water is deep and cold year-round.
- There are no lifeguards at natural swimming spots.
- Flash flooding is possible after heavy rain.
- Don't dive or jump into water of unknown depth.
Combine with the Coast
Northland is famous for its coastline. After these freshwater spots, explore the Bay of Islands, Ninety Mile Beach, Cape Reinga and the Poor Knights Islands marine reserve. At Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua), stay on the tracks and view the sacred pōhutukawa only from the viewing area. The Mermaid Pools at Matapōuri are closed by Ngāti Wai, so please don't visit them.
Respect Māori Cultural Values
Northland holds deep significance for Māori. Water (wai) is a taonga (treasure) and a life-giving force. Respect the environment, wāhi tapu, rāhui and local signage when you visit these places.
Northland Swimming FAQs
Can you swim at Rainbow Falls in Kerikeri?
DOC doesn't recommend it, because of the risks around the waterfall and the historic weir. It's best enjoyed from the viewing platforms, about 10 minutes' walk from the car park.
Are there facilities at Waipu Gorge?
No. Waipu Gorge is a free scenic reserve with roadside pull-over parking only, so bring what you need and take your rubbish home.
Can you visit the Mermaid Pools at Matapōuri?
No. The Mermaid Pools are closed to the public under a Ngāti Wai rāhui. Matapōuri Bay beach itself is open.
Get the Guide
For maps, seasonal swimming notes and local insights on these spots and more across the North Island, see Swim New Zealand – North Island, or browse our 20 best North Island swimming spots.
Northland offers some of New Zealand's most beautiful and least crowded freshwater spots, with clear water and a warm climate that make it well worth the drive north.
