Wentworth Falls – Whangamatā, Coromandel, New Zealand
About Wentworth Falls
Hidden inland from Whangamatā's surf beaches, Wentworth Falls drops in a silver ribbon through dense Coromandel forest. The waterfall spills over ancient volcanic rock before plunging into a calm, dark pool framed by mossy stone and thick green foliage.
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The walk in is a gradual slide into quiet. Ferns arch overhead, kawakawa and nīkau line the track, and the Wentworth River winds beside you in gentle bends. As you get closer, the sound of falling water grows louder until the trees part and the cascade appears: tall, narrow and elegant against rugged cliff walls.
Unlike the pounding ocean just a few kilometres away, this is cool freshwater calm. A place to float beneath rock faces shaped by thousands of years of erosion, surrounded by birdsong and forest shade.
Wentworth Falls is one of the wild swims in our guide Swim New Zealand – North Island.
How to Get to Wentworth Falls
Wentworth Falls is in Coromandel Forest Park, about 7 km south of Whangamatā.
- From Whangamatā, head south on SH25.
- Turn onto Wentworth Valley Road and follow it inland; the seal eventually turns to gravel.
- Continue to the end of the road, where the DOC campground and car park mark the start of the track.
Parking is free and usually ample, though it can fill up on summer weekends. The Wentworth Valley Campground at the trailhead is a DOC campsite, so you'll need to book and pay if you're staying the night.
The Wentworth Falls Walk
- Distance: about 3 km
- Time: DOC suggests allowing about 3 hours
- Grade: easy
The track follows an easy grade beside the Wentworth River through forest shade, then climbs to a viewing point over the falls. About 1 km up from the campground, a short section has been damaged by storms. It's uneven and rocky, with a creek crossing on stepping stones. Take your time, and don't cross if you're unsure you can do it safely or if the creek is flooding.
Respect the Forest
The forest here is a taonga of Ngāti Pu. Stay on marked tracks, respect restoration zones, let sunscreen soak in before you swim and pack everything out.
Safety Notes
- Rocks around the pool are extremely slippery; take care getting in and out.
- The water stays cool even in summer. Check the depth and don't jump or dive.
- There are no lifeguards.
- Avoid swimming after heavy rain because of strong currents and rising water.
- Stay on marked tracks to avoid erosion and unstable edges.
- Supervise children closely at all times.
Check current track conditions with DOC's Wentworth Falls Walk page before you go. Waikato Regional Council has regional river and water information.
Wentworth Falls FAQs
Can you swim at Wentworth Falls?
Yes, the pool at the base of the falls is a cool, calm swim in dry weather. The rocks are very slippery and there are no lifeguards, so take care and stay out after heavy rain.
How long is the Wentworth Falls walk?
About 3 km on an easy track from the end of Wentworth Valley Road. DOC suggests allowing about 3 hours.
Can you camp at Wentworth Falls?
Yes, at the DOC Wentworth Valley Campground at the trailhead. Bookings and fees are required.
Where is Wentworth Falls in the Coromandel?
In Coromandel Forest Park, at the end of Wentworth Valley Road off SH25, about 7 km south of Whangamatā.
