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Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve, north of Napier
4.4 km
2 hours
19 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you are looking for a refreshing escape from the sunny plains of Hawke’s Bay, look no further than the Tangoio Walkway. Nestled just north of Napier, this trail offers a lush, green contrast to the region's famous vineyards. It is a place where the air is cooler, the canopy is thicker, and the sound of falling water follows you through the bush.
The Tangoio Walkway is more than just a simple path; it is a scenic corridor that links two of the region's most beloved natural treasures: the Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve and the White Pine Bush Scenic Reserve. Stretching 4.4 kilometres one-way, this track provides an immersive experience through a diverse tapestry of landscapes. Whether you are a local looking for a weekend leg-stretch or a tourist seeking a slice of authentic Aotearoa bush, this moderate adventure delivers in spades.
Stepping onto the Tangoio Walkway feels like entering a different world. The trail meanders alongside the tranquil Kareaara Stream, which serves as your constant companion for much of the journey. The terrain is a fascinating mix; you’ll find yourself moving through thick, lush native forest one moment, and then emerging into open grassland or wandering through towering stands of exotic trees the next.
One of the most unique aspects of this walk is the variety of forestry on display. You’ll pass through both old and new pine plantations, but the real surprise is the pockets of majestic redwoods. There is something truly humbling about standing beneath these giants, their reddish bark and needle-carpeted floors creating a hushed, cathedral-like atmosphere.
While the elevation gain is a modest 19 metres, don't let that fool you into thinking it's a flat stroll. The track is well-maintained but does feature some steep sections that will get your heart rate up. There is also a stream crossing that requires a bit of nimble footwork. After heavy rain, this section can become quite muddy and slippery, so it’s worth taking your time.
If you are walking with the family, here is a pro-tip: walk the track from north to south. By starting at the White Pine Bush end and finishing at the Tangoio Falls end, you’ll find the journey is largely downhill. This makes it a much more "kid-friendly" experience, allowing the little ones to focus on the fun parts—like splashing in the shallows of the Kareaara Stream—rather than the uphill climbs.
Parking is available at two main access points: the southern end of Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve or opposite White Pine Bush Scenic Reserve. Both locations offer free, ample parking. If starting from the White Pine Bush car park, care should be taken when crossing State Highway 2 to reach the track entrance. There are no public restrooms at the main car parks, so plan accordingly.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Best time: Year-round
Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae
The Kereru is New Zealand's only native pigeon and is vital for dispersing the seeds of large-fruited native trees.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
13km away
Enjoy a meal at Valley D'Vine restaurant located within Linden Estate Winery, offering local wines and cuisine with scenic views. Approximately 1km from Eskdale Park.
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Point to point
The undisputed crown jewels of this walkway are the twin waterfalls. Each has its own distinct personality and charm.
First, there is Te Ana Falls. Standing at 10 metres tall, it is the smaller of the two, but many hikers find it the most enchanting. The water plunges into a secluded, horseshoe-shaped cove, feeding a refreshing swimming pool at its base. It feels like a secret grotto, and on a hot Hawke’s Bay summer day, there is nothing better than a quick dip in these cool, clear waters.
Then there is the showstopper: Tangoio Falls. This dramatic, three-tiered cascade drops a total of 25 metres. It is a powerful sight, especially after a bit of rainfall. While the base of Tangoio Falls is inaccessible for safety reasons, the viewing platforms offer fantastic opportunities for photography. The sheer scale of the falls against the backdrop of dense green ferns is a quintessential New Zealand scene.
If you happen to visit in the early summer, keep your eyes peeled for the delicate native orchid flowers that bloom along the track. These tiny, intricate flowers are easy to miss if you’re rushing, so take a moment to look closely at the mossy banks and forest floor.
The Tangoio Walkway is located approximately 25 minutes north of Napier via State Highway 2. Because it is a point-to-point trail, you have a couple of options for parking:
Both locations offer free and ample parking. However, a word of caution for those starting at the northern end: you will need to cross State Highway 2 to reach the track entrance. This is a busy main road with high-speed traffic, so please take extra care, especially if you have children or slow-moving groups with you.
The reserves are a haven for native wildlife, and the birdsong here is often spectacular. As you walk, listen for the distinctive, melodic chimes of the tūī and the deep, resonant "whoosh" of the kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon) flying overhead.
The New Zealand fantail (pīwakawaka) is a near-constant companion, flitting around hikers to catch the insects stirred up by their footsteps. If you are lucky, you might also hear the bell-like notes of the korimako (bellbird) or see the tiny grey warbler (riroriro) darting through the canopy. Down by the water, keep an eye out for the sacred kingfisher (kōtare), often seen perched on low branches overhanging the stream.
For those with a keen eye, the stream itself holds its own secrets. If you look closely into the clear, stiller pockets of the Kareaara Stream, you might spot kōura (freshwater crayfish) hiding among the rocks.
The Tangoio Walkway is a fantastic year-round destination, but each season brings its own flavour:
The best time to start is early morning. Not only is the lighting better for photography at the falls, but you’ll also beat the midday heat and have the best chance of hearing the dawn chorus of the birds.
This area holds significant value for the Hawke's Bay region. The name Tangoio itself carries weight in Māori history, and the reserves serve as a vital remnant of the vast native forests that once covered this part of the island. These pockets of bush are essential for the survival of local bird populations and serve as a living museum of Aotearoa's botanical heritage.
The inclusion of the redwood stands and pine plantations speaks to the region's colonial and industrial history, showing how the landscape has been shaped and reshaped over the decades. Today, the focus is firmly on conservation, ensuring that the mauri (life force) of the stream and the forest is protected for future generations.
Please note that dogs are not permitted in the reserve. This rule is strictly enforced to protect the native birdlife and delicate ecosystem, so leave your furry friends at home for this one.
After two hours of exploring, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite. Fortunately, the drive back towards Napier takes you past some of the best spots in the Eskdale valley:
The Tangoio Walkway is a reminder that Hawke's Bay is about more than just wine and art deco; it’s a region of raw, natural beauty waiting to be explored.
Rhipidura fuliginosa
In Māori mythology, the pīwakawaka is considered a messenger, sometimes bringing news of death.
Best time: Year-round
Anthornis melanura
Renowned for its melodious, bell-like song, it plays a vital role in pollinating native plants.
Best time: Year-round
Gerygone igata
Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.
Best time: Year-round
Todiramphus sanctus
A vibrantly coloured bird renowned for its precision diving to catch fish, also eats insects and small lizards.
Best time: Spring-Summer
14km away
A charming cafe offering refreshments and meals in the Eskdale valley, a popular stop for locals and visitors. Approximately 2km from Eskdale Park.
15km away
A local pub and holiday park offering a relaxed atmosphere, food, and drinks in the Bay View village.