Rainbow Falls – Kerikeri, Northland
Rainbow Falls is named for the shimmering arcs of colour that appear in the mist when sunlight hits the cascade, a sight so reliable locals call it "the rainbow that never leaves." Its Māori name, Waianiwaniwa, means "waters of the rainbow."
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It's one of Northland's most iconic freshwater spots and features in our guide Swim New Zealand – North Island.
About Rainbow Falls
Just minutes from Kerikeri town, Rainbow Falls (Waianiwaniwa) is a powerful 27-metre single-drop waterfall plunging into a deep, jade-green pool framed by dark basalt cliffs and native bush. It's easy to reach, yet the falls keep a wild, atmospheric beauty: mist drifting through the canopy and the constant roar of water echoing through the gorge.
The track winds through regenerating forest, past nīkau palms, ponga and mossy rock walls, before opening suddenly to reveal the full height of the waterfall. From the main viewing platform, water spills in a wide white curtain over the cliff face, throwing shifting rainbows into the spray whenever the sun catches the mist.
Rainbow Falls is a wāhi tapu of Ngāpuhi. Keep to the formed paths, never climb the cliffs, leave plants undisturbed and use biodegradable sunscreen.
How to Get to Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is about 5 minutes from Kerikeri town centre and around 3 hours north of Auckland.
From Kerikeri, take the Heritage Bypass to Waipapa Road, then turn onto Rainbow Falls Road, which ends at the DOC car park. There are toilets and picnic areas at the car park.
- Rainbow Falls Walk: about 10 minutes one way on an easy, well-formed track to the viewing platforms. DOC rates it suitable for buggies and wheelchairs.
- Kerikeri River Track: the longer way in, about 3.5 km and 1.5 hours one way from Kerikeri Basin, past the old hydro station and Wharepoke Falls. It's narrower, with steep drops and fewer barriers.
Dogs aren't allowed on the Kerikeri Basin walking tracks because of the risk to kiwi.
Can You Swim at Rainbow Falls?
DOC does not recommend swimming at Rainbow Falls. The pool beneath the waterfall is deep and powerful, and there's an old weir near the third viewing platform, which has direct access to the water. Waterfalls and weirs both carry serious risks.
In summer you'll still see people cooling off in the calmer shallows downstream. If you get in anywhere along the river, keep well away from the falls and the weir, and treat the water with respect:
- Rocks near the waterfall are slippery; wear sturdy footwear.
- The water is deep and cold year-round, so enter slowly. Don't jump or dive.
- Never swim beneath the waterfall; the currents there are strong.
- There are no lifeguards.
- Rivers can flash flood after heavy rain. Stay out when the water is up or discoloured.
- Stay behind the barriers at the viewing platforms and supervise children; there are steep drops along the track.
Official Information and Safety Updates
Check track status and safety advice before you visit:
- DOC: Rainbow Falls Walk and Kerikeri River Track
- DOC: Know Before You Go
- Far North District Council
- Northland Regional Council for river and water information
Rainbow Falls FAQs
Can you swim at Rainbow Falls in Kerikeri?
DOC says Rainbow Falls is not a recommended swimming place because of the risks around the waterfall and the old weir. Some people wade in the calmer shallows downstream in summer; stay well clear of the falls if you do.
How long is the walk to Rainbow Falls?
About 10 minutes one way from the Rainbow Falls Road car park on an easy track. The Kerikeri River Track from Kerikeri Basin is about 1.5 hours one way.
How high is Rainbow Falls?
Rainbow Falls is a single drop of about 27 metres.
Can you take dogs to Rainbow Falls?
No. Dogs aren't permitted on the Kerikeri Basin walking tracks because of the risk to kiwi and other wildlife.
