Omanawa Falls β A Bucket-List Walk
Omanawa Falls – A Bucket-List Walk
Staying at Pacific Coast Lodge & Backpackers in Mount Maunganui and keen to explore beyond the beach? Just a short drive inland, Omanawa Falls is one of the Bay of Plenty’s most impressive waterfall walks — and an easy, rewarding adventure for backpackers and travellers.
Recently upgraded, the Omanawa Falls track offers safe access, stunning lookout points, and a chance to experience New Zealand’s native bush and cultural history, all in around an hour.
π Walk Overview
- Location: Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
- Distance: 2.7 km return
- Time: Approx. 1 hour
- Difficulty: Easy–Medium
- Open: Year-round
- What to bring: Water, snacks, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes
π₯Ύ The Walk Experience - The trail begins from a newly developed car park and eases gently downhill through lush native bush. After about five minutes, you’ll reach the first lookout (Wairere Tapu) — a perfect photo stop and a great option if you’re short on time. From here, those feeling energetic can continue on to Te Harikoa Lookout. This section includes around 750 steps, spread between uphill and downhill sections. While slightly more challenging, the reward is a breathtaking view across the valley and behind Omanawa Falls — the best vantage point on the track. The trail is well maintained, clearly signposted, and suitable for most fitness levels.
π± Culture & History -One of the highlights of the Omanawa Falls walk is the way it shares the cultural significance of this sacred place. Interpretation panels along the track explain the history of the falls, local MΔori stories, and the surrounding flora and fauna.
π Make a Day of It - If you’re keen to explore more, pair your visit with McLaren Falls Park, or Pori Pori waterhole, another local favourite. It’s ideal for a picnic, swimming, or just relaxing in nature!
See the reception Team at Pacific Coast Lodge and Backpackers for more information or help with car pooling.
