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Matawai
1 km
48 minutes
10 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you’re road-tripping through the sun-drenched Tairāwhiti Gisborne region, there is one stop that absolutely earns its "must-see" status. The Rere Falls Trail isn’t your typical multi-day backcountry grind; instead, it’s a short, sweet, and incredibly rewarding stroll that packs a massive punch for very little effort. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend picnic spot or a tourist ticking off New Zealand’s natural wonders, this little pocket of Matawai magic is bound to steal your heart.
Now, a quick bit of clarification before we lace up the boots: you might have heard of the Rere Falls Trail in the context of the Motu Trails—a massive 100-kilometre cycling route that connects Gisborne to Matawai. While that’s a legendary ride, what we’re talking about here is the accessible, family-friendly walking experience centered around the falls and the world-famous rockslide. It’s only a 1-kilometre return trip, but don’t let the short distance fool you—you could easily spend an entire afternoon here.
As you step out of your car at the Rere Falls Reserve, the first thing that hits you isn't the sight, but the sound. The low, rhythmic roar of the Wharekopae River cascading over the falls sets the tone for the walk. The terrain is easy underfoot, mostly grass and packed earth, and because the total elevation gain is a mere 10 metres, it feels more like a leisurely garden stroll than a "hike."
The trail essentially connects two of nature’s best playgrounds. You start at the majestic Rere Falls, where the water drops five metres over a massive, wide basalt ledge. From there, the path follows the river downstream toward the Rere Rockslide. Along the way, you’ll be flanked by pockets of native bush and the rolling, fertile high-country farmland that defines the Gisborne hinterland. It’s a peaceful, pastoral setting that feels quintessentially Kiwi. Because it is so short and easy, it is a fantastic "starter" walk for young children, and since it’s dog-friendly, your four-legged companions can join in on the fun too—just keep them on a lead to respect the local birdlife and other visitors.
Free parking is available at the Rere Falls Reserve, with ample space for cars and campervans. The reserve also provides public toilets and a pleasant picnic area, making it a convenient and well-equipped stop for visitors.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
New Zealand wood pigeon, a large native bird with iridescent green and purple plumage. Important for seed dispersal of native trees.
Best time: Year-round
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Out and back
The real showstopper for many, however, is the Rere Rockslide, located just a few hundred metres down the track. This isn't a man-made attraction; it’s a 60-metre-long natural slide carved into the bedrock by thousands of years of river flow. Over time, the Wharekopae River has polished the rock to a slippery, glass-like finish.
If you want to join the ranks of the "Rere Legends," you’ll need some gear. Watching people navigate the slide is a highlight in itself—you'll see everything from professional-grade boogie boards to inflatable mattresses and even the occasional oversized tractor inner tube. Sliding down is a rite of passage in these parts, but even if you prefer to keep your clothes dry, the geological sight of the smooth, tiered rock is worth the walk alone.
Follow the signs for the Rere Falls Reserve. Once you arrive, you’ll find a spacious, free parking area that easily accommodates cars and larger campervans. The local council has done a great job maintaining the facilities here; there are clean public toilets and several picnic tables positioned to give you a prime view of the falls. It’s a well-equipped spot that makes it easy to transition from "road trip mode" to "explorer mode."
If you look toward the quieter sections of the Wharekopae River, you’re almost certain to see Paradise Shelducks (Pūtakitaki). These large, colourful ducks are usually seen in pairs; the female has a distinctive white head, while the male has a dark greyish-black head.
Closer to the path, the friendly Fantail (Pīwakawaka) will likely flit around you, using your movement to stir up small insects for its lunch. If you’re lucky and quiet, you might spot a Sacred Kingfisher (Kōtare) perched motionless on a branch overhanging the water, waiting for the perfect moment to dive for a snack. For the best birdwatching, try to visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the reserve is quieter and the birds are most active.
Geologically, the area is a fascinating example of how water shapes the land. The smooth surface of the rockslide is a testament to the power of persistent erosion over millennia. In more recent colonial history, the Rere area was a hub for the burgeoning sheep farming industry that still defines much of the Gisborne high country today. When you look out at the hills surrounding the trail, you’re seeing a landscape that has been transformed by generations of New Zealanders, yet still retains its wild, natural heart.
The Rere Falls Trail might be short, but it’s a perfect distillation of what makes the East Coast so special: a bit of adventure, a lot of natural beauty, and a relaxed vibe that stays with you long after you’ve left the trail.
Anthornis melanura
Endemic songbird with bell-like calls. Males are olive-green with a purple head sheen; females are browner with a narrow white-yellow stripe across the cheek.
Best time: Year-round
Tadorna variegata
Large, colourful duck endemic to New Zealand. Males have dark plumage; females have white heads and chestnut bodies.
Best time: Year-round
Todiramphus sanctus vagans
With striking blue-green plumage and a strong bill, this kingfisher is often seen perched near water, diving to catch fish, crustaceans, and insects.
Best time: Year-round
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round