Rere Falls
Gisborne District
Rere Falls is a scenic waterfall located on the Wharekopae River in the Gisborne District of New Zealand's North Island. Although relatively modest in height at around 10 meters, the falls impress visitors with their broad, block-style cascade stretching approximately 20 meters wide. The waterfall is notable for its unique feature that allows visitors to walk behind the curtain of water, offering a rare and immersive experience, though caution is advised due to slippery rock surfaces. The surrounding area includes a well-maintained picnic spot and a swimming pool beneath the falls, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Rere Falls is part of a larger natural reserve that features walking and cycling trails, including the Rere Falls Trail, which connects to the Motu Trail, providing an ideal route for cyclists traveling between Gisborne and the Bay of Plenty. The falls are situated near the small rural community of Rere, which lies in the upper valley of the Wharekōpae River amidst the foothills of the Huiarau Range. This natural feature, along with the nearby Rere Rock Slide, contributes to the area's reputation as a must-visit location for those exploring New Zealand's scenic landscapes.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Rere Falls is during the warmer months when swimming in the natural pool is enjoyable. Parking is available at Wharekopae Road with sealed road access, and the walk to the waterfall base is a short, easy 2-minute return. Visitors are advised to be cautious when walking behind the falls due to slippery rocks. Consider combining your visit with a ride or hike along the Rere Falls Trail, which connects to the Motu Trail for an extended outdoor experience. Booking tickets is not required, and there are picnic facilities and public toilets on site for convenience.
Faits intéressants
- •Rere Falls is about 10 meters high and 20 meters wide, creating a broad curtain of water.
- •Visitors can walk behind the waterfall, a rare feature among New Zealand waterfalls.
- •The nearby Rere Rock Slide is a natural rock formation 60 meters long, rated as a must-do place by the New Zealand Automobile Association.
- •Rere Falls is accessible via sealed roads and has a picnic area and public toilets nearby.
- •The waterfall is part of the Wharekopae River and lies in the foothills of the Huiarau Range.
Histoire
The Rere Falls area has long been part of the rural landscape of the Gisborne District, with the local community of Rere established in the upper valley of the Wharekōpae River.
While the waterfall itself is a natural formation without a specific construction date, the surrounding region has developed over time to include walking and cycling trails that promote eco-tourism.
The nearby Rere School, opened in 1914 and relocated in 1939, indicates the sustained human presence and community development in this remote area.
Over recent decades, Rere Falls has gained recognition as a popular natural attraction, celebrated for its accessibility and scenic beauty.
Guide du lieu
Waterfall Base and Behind the Falls
The base of Rere Falls offers a unique vantage point where visitors can safely walk behind the cascading water curtain, experiencing the waterfall from a rare perspective. The rock surface behind the falls can be slippery, so caution is advised.
Picnic Area and Swimming Pool
Adjacent to the falls is a well-maintained picnic area equipped with tables and public toilets, alongside a natural swimming pool formed by the river below the waterfall. This spot is popular for family outings and relaxation.
Rere Falls Trail
A cycling and walking trail that starts near Rere Falls, graded as a moderate (Grade 3) trail extending 103 kilometers, connecting Gisborne with the Bay of Plenty via the Motu Trail. This trail offers scenic views and a multi-day outdoor adventure opportunity.