Raparapahoe Falls – Te Puke, Bay of Plenty
Raparapahoe Falls is one of the Bay of Plenty's hidden freshwater gems: a secluded waterfall tucked deep in native bush near Te Puke, where clear green water flows into a peaceful swimming hole beneath a dense forest canopy.
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It's one of the swims in our guide Swim New Zealand – North Island.
About Raparapahoe Falls
Just a short drive from Te Puke, Raparapahoe Falls feels worlds away from civilisation. The waterfall spills gently over dark volcanic rock into a deep, emerald-green pool surrounded by mossy boulders and native bush. It's not a towering waterfall, but what it lacks in height it makes up for in atmosphere: shaded, quiet and beautifully untouched.
The track drops through mature tawa forest into a narrow gorge, where the air cools and the sound of running water echoes through the trees. Ferns, ponga and native vegetation crowd in as you follow the stream up towards the falls.
At the base, the pool is calm and clear, reflecting the greenery above. On still days the surface turns glass-smooth, broken only by the soft cascade of the falls. It's a perfect swim if you're after solitude and nature rather than crowds.
How to Get to Raparapahoe Falls
The walk is the Te Raparapa-ā-hoe Stream Track, listed by Western Bay of Plenty District Council. From Te Puke, drive up No. 3 Road, turn onto No. 4 Road, cross the bridge, turn left immediately and continue about 2.4 km to the signposted roadside parking bay. There are no facilities, so park considerately, don't block farm access and leave any gates as you find them.
Track Overview
- Time: about 60 minutes return
- Difficulty: hard. The council rates it for fit, agile walkers; it's very steep in places on the way down and the climb back out.
- Route: down through tawa forest into the gorge, then upstream along the stream to the pool at the base of the falls
- Terrain: narrow, uneven and slippery after rain, with exposed roots
Swimming at Raparapahoe Falls
Lower pool (main swimming hole): the calm, deep pool at the base of the waterfall is the best place to swim.
Downstream creek: cool, clear water flowing away from the falls, good for wading.
Upper boulder ledge: shallower water above the falls, nice for photos. Stay well back from the edge of the drop.
Safety Notes
- Rocks around the falls are slippery with moss; wear sturdy shoes or water sandals with grip.
- The water is deep and cold year-round. Ease in slowly to avoid cold shock, and don't jump or dive in.
- There are no facilities or lifeguards. Swim with others and avoid swimming directly under the waterfall.
- Streams can flash flood after heavy rain. Don't visit during or straight after storms.
- The track is steep, narrow and can be muddy; take care on the descent and save energy for the climb out.
- Respect the neighbouring farmland, stay on the track and pack out all your rubbish.
Check the latest track status with Western Bay of Plenty District Council before you go, and see the DOC Know Before You Go advice and Bay of Plenty Regional Council for river safety and water information.
Raparapahoe Falls FAQs
Can you swim at Raparapahoe Falls?
Yes. The deep pool at the base of the waterfall is the main swimming hole. The water is cold year-round and there are no lifeguards, so ease in slowly and avoid it after heavy rain.
How long is the walk to Raparapahoe Falls?
Allow about an hour return. It's short but very steep in places, so it suits fit, agile walkers.
Where do you park for Raparapahoe Falls?
At the signposted roadside parking bay on No. 4 Road, about 2.4 km past the bridge (turn left immediately after crossing it). There are no facilities.
Is Raparapahoe Falls good for kids?
Only for confident, agile kids with close supervision. The track is very steep in places and the pool is deep.
