Rere Rockslide – Gisborne, East Coast, New Zealand
Rere Rockslide – Gisborne, East Coast, New Zealand
Rere Rockslide is not just a swimming spot — it's a natural waterslide carved by centuries of flowing river. A long, smooth slab of sandstone angles gently into a deep emerald pool, creating one of New Zealand's most iconic freshwater adventures.
The Wharekopae River glides over the polished rock face in a thin, steady sheet. In summer, the flow is fast enough to send you skimming down the 60-metre slide, but gentle enough to feel playful rather than extreme. Sunlight catches the water as it fans out over the stone, turning the surface into a shimmering launch ramp.
Surrounded by farmland and bush-covered hills, the atmosphere is pure East Coast summer — laughter echoing across the valley, people lining up with boogie boards and inflatable tubes, and cheers rising each time someone shoots into the deep splash pool below. For more East Coast swimming, explore Rere Falls or discover other New Zealand swimming spots.
Discover More with Swim New Zealand
Rere Rockslide is featured in Swim New Zealand – North Island, a curated guide to the country's best waterfalls, rivers, geothermal streams, and coastal swims. If you're exploring Gisborne and the East Coast, the guide connects adrenaline spots like Rere Rockslide with calmer river pools and nearby waterfall swims. Browse all our New Zealand travel guides.
Map & Navigation
Google Maps:
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Rere+Rock+Slide+Waterfall/
Closest Parking:
Roadside parking area near the reserve entrance along Wharekopae Road.
There are no major facilities — bring what you need.
How to Get There
Rere Rockslide is located approximately 35–40 minutes west of Gisborne along Wharekopae Road.
Driving Directions:
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From Gisborne, take SH35 northwest briefly.
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Turn onto Wharekopae Road toward Rere.
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Continue for about 30–35 minutes through rolling farmland.
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Pass Rere Falls (if visiting both).
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Look for signage to Rere Rockslide.
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Park in the roadside area and walk a short distance to the river.
The walk from parking to the slide is only a few minutes.
Sliding & Swimming Hotspots
The Main Rock Ramp
The famous 60-metre sandstone slide. Most people use boogie boards or inflatable tubes for speed and control.
The Splash Pool
A deep, calm basin at the bottom of the slide. Float to the edge before climbing out and walking back up for another run.
Upstream Entry Point
A gentle access area where most sliders begin their descent.
Downstream Calm Section
Quieter stretches of river for wading or cooling off away from the main slide.
Safety Notes
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Rocks are extremely slippery.
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Always check water depth before sliding.
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Use a boogie board for protection and control.
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Avoid sliding in high river flow.
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No lifeguards on site.
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Supervise children closely.
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Wear water shoes for grip.
For official regional guidance and safety updates:
Gisborne District Council:
https://www.gdc.govt.nz/
Department of Conservation (DOC):
https://www.doc.govt.nz/
