Kerikeri River Track: Nature's Riverside Path
Experience the perfect blend of history and natural beauty just 5 minutes from Kerigold Chalets. A gentle walk connecting New Zealand's oldest buildings to the spectacular Rainbow Falls.
Quick Navigation
Essential Info
- Location: 5 mins from Kerigold
- Distance: 3.5km one way
- Time: 1-1.5 hours each way
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
The Kerikeri River Track is one of those special places that I find myself returning to again and again. As a local who's walked this track countless times in all seasons, I can honestly say it offers one of the most rewarding walking experiences in Northland which is so close to Kerikeri town. What makes it so special is the perfect combination of historical significance, natural beauty, accessibility and that you can stop for a beer in the middle of the walk.
This scenic track follows the Kerikeri River past the historic Stone Store Basin all the way to the magnificent Rainbow Falls. Along the way, you'll be treated to peaceful river views, native bush teeming with birdlife, and several inviting swimming holes that are perfect for a refreshing dip on warm days. Just a 5-minute drive from Kerigold Chalets, it's an ideal half-day adventure during your stay in Kerikeri.
Getting There
The Kerikeri River Track can be accessed from either end, giving you flexibility in how you experience it:
Stone Store Basin Entrance
From Kerigold Chalets, head into Kerikeri township and follow Kerikeri Road all the way to the Stone Store Basin. There's a car park near the Stone Store where you can leave your vehicle. The track begins just past the Stone Store and Kemp House, New Zealand's oldest stone and wooden buildings.
Driving time from Kerigold: About 5 minutes
Parking: Free parking available at the Stone Store Basin
Rainbow Falls Entrance
Alternatively, you can start at Rainbow Falls. From Kerigold Chalets, head into Kerikeri and turn onto Rainbow Falls Road. Follow this road to the end where you'll find the Rainbow Falls car park. The track entrance is clearly marked.
Driving time from Kerigold: About 20 minutes
Parking: Free parking available at Rainbow Falls
Local Tip
If you're planning to walk one-way only, I recommend starting at the Stone Store and walking to Rainbow Falls. This way, you're building up to the most spectacular view as your finale. You'll need to arrange transport back to your starting point, or simply return the way you came for the full experience.
Walking Route
The Kerikeri River Track offers a diverse walking experience that changes as you progress:
Stone Store to Wharepuke Falls (30 minutes)
The track begins in the historic precinct, passing the Stone Store and Kemp House. This first section is well-formed and relatively flat, winding through open parkland before entering native bush. About 20 minutes in, you'll reach Wharepuke Falls, a small but picturesque cascade that's worth a quick photo stop.
This section of the track offers glimpses of Kerikeri's colonial history, with information panels explaining the significance of various sites. Keep an eye out for the remains of old mills and dams that once harnessed the river's power.
Wharepuke Falls to The Narrows (30 minutes)
Continuing on, the track narrows and becomes slightly more challenging with some gentle ups and downs. This middle section is my personal favorite, as the river widens in places to form tranquil pools surrounded by native bush. The track follows the riverbank closely here, offering beautiful views across the water.
You'll eventually reach an area known as "The Narrows," where the river constricts between rocky banks. This is one of the most photogenic spots on the track, especially in the late afternoon when the sun filters through the trees.
The Narrows to Rainbow Falls (30 minutes)
The final section climbs gently away from the river before descending to Rainbow Falls. As you approach the falls, you'll hear them before you see them. The track emerges at a viewing platform that offers a spectacular view of the 27-meter waterfall plunging into a large pool below.
From the main viewing platform, you can take a short side track that leads down to the base of the falls. This steep but well-formed path is worth the extra effort for the impressive view looking up at the falls.
Walking Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip, especially if it has been raining
- Bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent
- Allow extra time if you plan to swim or take lots of photos
- The track can be muddy after rain, but remains passable year-round
Swimming Spots
One of the highlights of the Kerikeri River Track is the opportunity to cool off in the river's crystal-clear waters:
Rainbow Falls Pool
The most popular swimming spot is the large pool at the base of Rainbow Falls. The water here is deep and refreshing, with a small beach area where you can leave your belongings. On hot summer days, this spot can get busy with locals and visitors alike enjoying the natural swimming hole.
Swimming directly under the falls isn't recommended due to the force of the water and potential for submerged rocks, but the outer edges of the pool are perfect for a cooling dip.
Mid-Track Swimming Holes
For a more secluded swimming experience, look for the wider pools in the middle section of the track. About halfway between the Stone Store and Rainbow Falls, there are several spots where the river forms natural swimming holes with gentle currents.
My favorite is a pool about 10 minutes past Wharepuke Falls, where a large pohutukawa tree provides shade and the river widens into a perfect swimming spot. You'll often have these middle pools all to yourself, even in summer.
Swimming Safety
While the Kerikeri River is generally safe for swimming, always check water conditions before entering. After heavy rain, the current can be stronger than it appears, and water clarity may be reduced. Never swim alone, and keep children supervised at all times.
Wildlife and Plant Life
The Kerikeri River Track is a biodiversity hotspot, offering excellent opportunities for nature observation:
- Native Birds: Listen for the distinctive calls of tūī, fantails, and wood pigeons (kererū). Early morning or late afternoon are the best times for birdwatching.
- Freshwater Life: Look carefully in the clear pools and you might spot native fish like inanga or kokopu. Long-finned eels also inhabit the deeper pools.
- Native Trees: The track passes through beautiful stands of native bush, including towering kauri, nikau palms, and ancient pūriri trees.
- Ferns and Mosses: The damp environment near the river supports a diverse range of ferns and mosses, creating a lush, green atmosphere.
Photography Tips
For the best photos of Rainbow Falls, visit in the morning when the light is softer and there's a chance of catching rainbows in the mist. Bring a polarizing filter if you have one - it helps cut glare on the water and enhances the greens of the forest. For wildlife photography, move slowly and quietly, and be patient.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kerikeri River Track
Experience the Kerikeri River Track During Your Stay
Stay at Kerigold Chalets and explore the Kerikeri River Track and other natural wonders from our central Kerikeri location.