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Essential Info
- Height: Approximately 5 meters
- Type: Cascading stepped waterfall
- Walking Time: 15 minutes from garden entrance
- Entry: Small fee for garden access
- Best Time: After rainfall for better flow
- Facilities: Café, art gallery, toilets
Nestled in the lush native bush just minutes from Kerikeri town center, Wharepuke Falls is one of the area's most charming yet lesser-known waterfalls. This hidden gem offers visitors a more secluded experience away from the crowds that typically gather at the more famous Rainbow Falls. Located just a 5-minute drive from Kerigold Chalets, this waterfall is set within the beautiful Wharepuke Subtropical Garden, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
About Wharepuke Falls
The name "Wharepuke" comes from the Māori language, where "whare" means house and "puke" refers to a hill or mound, indicating the falls' location on elevated terrain. The waterfall cascades gracefully over ancient volcanic rocks, creating a series of gentle steps rather than a single dramatic drop.
What makes Wharepuke Falls special is its intimate setting, surrounded by native ferns, nikau palms, and other indigenous flora. The tranquil pool at the base of the falls is perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day, with the water being slightly warmer than other swimming spots in the area.
Did You Know?
Wharepuke was once a plant nursery that has been transformed into a subtropical garden featuring one of New Zealand's largest collections of subtropical food plants. The garden is also home to an outdoor sculpture trail featuring works by local artists, making it a unique combination of natural and artistic beauty.
Visitor Information
Planning Your Visit
- Location: 190 Kerikeri Road, just minutes from Kerikeri town center
- Opening Hours: Garden open daily from 9am to 5pm
- Entry Fee: Small fee for garden access (approximately $10 per adult)
- Facilities: Café, art gallery, toilets, and plant nursery on site
- Best Time to Visit: After rainfall for better waterfall flow, morning for photography
- Time Needed: Allow 1-2 hours to explore the garden and falls
Wharepuke Subtropical Garden
Wharepuke Falls is located within the Wharepuke Subtropical Garden, which is a destination in its own right. This 5-acre garden features:
- Plant Collection: One of New Zealand's largest collections of subtropical food plants
- Native Flora: Beautiful native ferns, nikau palms, and other indigenous plants
- Sculpture Trail: Outdoor art installations by local and international artists
- Café: Food at Wharepuke, a popular café serving fresh, locally-sourced meals
- Art Gallery: Exhibitions featuring works by New Zealand artists
- Plant Nursery: Purchase rare and unusual plants for your own garden
Garden Highlights
While visiting Wharepuke Garden, don't miss these highlights:
- The collection of rare fruit trees from around the world
- The peaceful bamboo grove
- The contemporary sculpture trail with changing exhibitions
- The café's garden-to-table menu featuring produce grown on-site
Walking Tracks
The walk to Wharepuke Falls is a pleasant journey through the subtropical garden:
- Main Garden Path: Well-maintained paths wind through the garden
- Falls Track: A 15-minute walk from the garden entrance to the waterfall
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate - Some uneven terrain but generally accessible
- Terrain: Mix of gravel paths and natural trails
Walking Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as some parts of the track can be uneven
- Bring insect repellent, especially in summer months
- Take your time to enjoy the garden's diverse plant life along the way
- Look out for information signs that identify unusual plants and sculptures
- Bring a camera to capture both the garden's beauty and the waterfall
Photography at Wharepuke Falls
Wharepuke Falls offers excellent photography opportunities for both amateur and professional photographers:
- Best Light: Morning light filters beautifully through the garden canopy
- Composition: Frame the falls with the surrounding subtropical foliage
- Detail Shots: Look for interesting plant details and sculptures throughout the garden
- Seasonal Interest: Different flowering plants provide changing color throughout the year
Nearby Attractions
Make the most of your visit by exploring these nearby attractions:
- Rainbow Falls (10-minute drive)
- Charlie's Rock (15-minute drive)
- Kerikeri Basin and Stone Store (5-minute drive)
- Kerikeri Farmers Market (Saturday mornings, 5-minute drive)
- Makana Chocolate Factory (5-minute drive)
Where to Stay
Make Wharepuke Falls part of your Kerikeri adventure by staying at Kerigold Chalets. Our location offers:
- Just a 5-minute drive to Wharepuke Garden and Falls
- Private, self-contained chalets
- Local knowledge and recommendations for garden visits
- Convenient base for exploring all Kerikeri attractions