Hinerau Walk

Loop

The undisputed stars of this walk are the Āniwaniwa Falls. This isn't just one waterfall; it is a magnificent trio of cascades, each with its own distinct personality.

1. Bridal Veil Falls: The most elegant of the three, these falls drape over the rocks like fine lace. They are a photographer's dream, especially when the light filters through the canopy to illuminate the spray.
2. Momahaki Falls: These falls represent the raw power of the river. You can feel the vibration of the water as it thunders down, a stark and thrilling contrast to the serenity of the surrounding forest.
3. Te Tangi o Hinerau: This is the lower part of the falls and holds deep cultural significance. The name translates to "The Wailing of Hinerau," and it is a place of profound beauty and storytelling.

The name Āniwaniwa itself means "rainbow" in Māori. If you visit on a bright, sunny day, keep a close eye on the mist rising from the basins at the bottom of the falls. You might be lucky enough to see a vibrant rainbow arching through the spray—a magical moment that makes the walk feel like something out of a fairy tale.

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is straightforward, making it a stress-free addition to your Waikaremoana itinerary. The Hinerau Walk starts and ends near the Āniwaniwa Visitor Centre, located on the eastern side of Lake Waikaremoana.

There is ample parking available at the Visitor Centre, which is a great relief during the busier summer months. The car park is spacious and well-maintained, and importantly, it includes public toilet facilities. This makes it an ideal base camp for your morning. From the car park, the trailhead is clearly signposted, so you won’t have any trouble finding your way into the bush.

Wildlife Spotting

Te Urewera is a haven for native birdlife, and the Hinerau Walk provides a front-row seat to their daily antics. As you walk, the melodic "tinkling" of the Tūī and the chiming of the Bellbird (though more common elsewhere, the Tūī is a constant here) provide a natural soundtrack.

Keep an eye out for the Kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon). These large, iridescent birds are often seen perched heavily on branches or flying with a distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings. They are quite bold and can often be spotted munching on berries in the canopy.

On the forest floor or flitting between the lower branches, the friendly Fantail (Pīwakawaka) is almost guaranteed to make an appearance. They love to follow hikers, darting around to catch the tiny insects stirred up by your footsteps. If you are quiet and patient, you might also spot the North Island Robin (Toutouwai). These inquisitive birds are known to hop right up to your boots to see what you’re up to.

Near the water’s edge, look for the Black Shag or the New Zealand Scaup (Pāpango), a small diving duck that frequents the river and lake margins.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Hinerau Walk is a true all-seasons destination.

• Spring: The forest is at its most vibrant, and the waterfalls are often at their most powerful due to spring rainfall.
• Summer: The cool shade of the rainforest provides a welcome escape from the heat. This is also the best time to catch the famous "rainbows" in the waterfall mist.
• Autumn: The air is crisp, and the forest feels particularly peaceful as the summer crowds thin out.
• Winter: The mist often hangs low over the lake and river, giving the walk a mystical, ethereal quality.

Best time to start: Aim for mid-morning. This is when the sun is high enough to reach into the gorge and illuminate the waterfalls, increasing your chances of seeing those namesake rainbows.

• Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers are fine, but boots are better if it has been raining recently, as the track can get a bit muddy.
• Clothing: A waterproof jacket is a must, even on sunny days. The spray from the falls can be surprisingly cold and wet!
• Water & Snacks: It’s a short walk, but it’s always good to have a bottle of water on hand.
• Camera: You’ll definitely want to capture the falls.

Weather Considerations: This is a rainforest environment. It can be humid, and rain can arrive suddenly. Don't let a bit of drizzle stop you, though—the forest actually looks its best when it's glistening with moisture.

Local & Regional Context

Te Urewera is a place of immense spiritual and cultural importance. In a landmark legal move, Te Urewera was granted legal personhood in 2014, meaning the land has the same rights as a person. This reflects the deep connection of the Tūhoe people (the children of the mist) to their ancestral home. When you walk here, you aren't just visiting a park; you are a guest in a living entity.

The Te Tangi o Hinerau falls are named after Hinerau, a woman of high rank and legendary beauty. Her story is woven into the very rocks and water of this place, adding a layer of heritage that you can feel as you stand by the river. Respecting the land is paramount here—stay on the track and take only photos. Please note that to protect this sensitive environment and its wildlife, dogs are not allowed on this trail.

After the Walk

Once you’ve completed the loop and your lungs are full of fresh forest air, you’ll likely be ready for a treat. Head about 1.5km down the road to the Waikaremoana Holiday Park Shop.

This is the local hub for hikers and visitors. It’s more than just a shop; it’s a place to refuel and swap stories with other travellers. They serve up great coffee to warm you up on a chilly morning, and their selection of ice creams is the perfect reward for kids (and adults!) after a walk. If you’re planning to stay longer in the area, they also stock basic groceries, cold drinks, and snacks. It’s a friendly, welcoming spot that captures the laid-back spirit of Lake Waikaremoana.