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Essential Info
- Type: Series of natural pools
- Water Color: Emerald green
- Walking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Entry: Free
- Best Time: Midday for colors
- Facilities: None (undeveloped site)
Hidden away in the lush native bush near Kerikeri lies one of the area's most magical natural attractions - the Fairy Pools. These crystal-clear emerald waters form a series of enchanting pools and small cascades that seem to have been plucked straight from a fantasy novel. Located just a 15-minute drive from Kerigold Chalets, this hidden gem offers visitors a more intimate and serene swimming experience.
About Fairy Pools
Unlike the more dramatic Rainbow Falls or the popular Charlie's Rock, the Fairy Pools offer a more intimate and serene experience. The series of interconnected pools have been carved into the volcanic rock over centuries by the gentle flow of a small stream, creating perfectly formed swimming holes of varying depths.
What makes the Fairy Pools truly special is their otherworldly beauty. The water maintains an incredible clarity and takes on a mesmerizing blue-green hue when the sun hits it just right, giving the pools their magical reputation and name. Surrounded by native ferns, mossy rocks, and dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy, it's easy to understand why local legends speak of fairies inhabiting this enchanted spot.
Did You Know?
The unique emerald color of the Fairy Pools is caused by a combination of mineral content in the water and the special volcanic rock that forms the pools' base. This natural phenomenon is enhanced when sunlight penetrates the forest canopy and illuminates the pools from above.
Visitor Information
Planning Your Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Midday when sunlight illuminates the pools, enhancing their emerald color
- Access: Moderate grade walking track, some scrambling required
- Swimming Areas: Multiple pools of varying depths
- Parking: Small unmarked parking area near the stream crossing on Waipapa Road
- Facilities: None at site (no toilets, changing areas or trash bins)
- Weather Consideration: Best after moderate rain for better flow, but avoid after heavy rainfall
Important Visitor Information
The Fairy Pools are a natural, undeveloped site that requires special consideration:
- The track to the pools is unmarked and can be difficult to follow. Consider visiting with someone who knows the way or research directions carefully beforehand.
- Wear appropriate footwear as the track involves stream crossings and can be slippery.
- Respect this pristine environment by taking all trash with you and avoiding any damage to vegetation.
- The pools can be deeper than they appear - always check depth before jumping in.
- Consider using biodegradable sunscreen to minimize impact on the delicate ecosystem.
Finding the Fairy Pools
The Fairy Pools are somewhat off the beaten path, which adds to their mystique but can make them challenging to find:
- The trailhead is located off Waipapa Road, approximately 10 minutes drive from central Kerikeri.
- Look for a small unmarked parking area near the stream crossing (limited spaces available).
- The trail follows the stream for most of the way - if you lose the path, simply continue following the water upstream.
- The walk takes approximately 25-30 minutes each way, depending on conditions.
- Some sections require crossing the stream, so be prepared to get your feet wet.
- The final approach involves some scrambling over rocks - take care on slippery surfaces.
- You'll know you've arrived when you see the distinctive emerald pools set among the rocks.
Best Times to Visit
To make the most of your Fairy Pools experience:
- Visit on a sunny day when sunlight can penetrate the forest canopy and illuminate the pools
- Midday (between 11am and 2pm) offers the best lighting for seeing the pools' colors
- Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends, providing a more serene experience
- Summer and early autumn provide the most comfortable swimming conditions
- Allow at least 2-3 hours for the full experience, including hiking time and time to explore and swim
Photography Paradise
The Fairy Pools have become increasingly popular with photographers, and for good reason. The combination of crystal-clear emerald waters, smooth volcanic rock formations, dappled light filtering through the forest canopy, and small cascades creates perfect conditions for stunning nature photography.
Photography Tips
- Visit around midday when the sun is high enough to illuminate the pools, bringing out their vibrant color
- A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water surface and enhance the visibility of the underwater features
- Long exposure shots work beautifully to capture the small cascades between pools, creating a silky water effect
- Include elements of the surrounding forest to frame your shots and provide context
- Look for interesting details like water patterns, light playing on the rock formations, or native plants growing alongside the pools
Remember to respect the environment while photographing - stay on established paths where possible and avoid disturbing the natural setting for the perfect shot.
Nearby Attractions
Make the most of your visit by exploring these nearby attractions:
- Rainbow Falls (15-minute drive)
- Charlie's Rock (10-minute drive)
- Aroha Island Ecological Centre (20-minute drive)
- Kerikeri Basin and Stone Store (15-minute drive)
Getting There from Kerigold Chalets
The Fairy Pools are approximately a 15-minute drive from our chalets:
Where to Stay
Make the Fairy Pools part of your Kerikeri adventure by staying at Kerigold Chalets. Our location offers:
- Easy drive to the Fairy Pools and other natural attractions
- Private, self-contained chalets
- Local knowledge and walking track guides
- Convenient base for exploring all Kerikeri attractions