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Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve, north of Napier
2 km
30 minutes
50 metres
Safety notice: Conditions change; check DOC/local council/weather before walking.
If you’re looking for a slice of paradise that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life, but is actually just a short hop from Napier, then the Te Ana Falls Track is a must-add to your Hawke’s Bay itinerary. This little gem, tucked away in the Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve, offers everything we love about the New Zealand outdoors: lush native bush, a crystal-clear stream, and a waterfall that looks like it stepped straight out of a fairy tale.
Whether you’re a local looking for a quick nature fix or a visitor wanting to see the "green" side of the Bay, this 2km return walk is the perfect introduction to our region's stunning biodiversity. It’s short, sweet, and packs a massive punch for very little effort.
A Quick Note on Access: Before you lace up your boots, it is important to check the current status of the track. Recent severe weather events have caused some significant damage in the reserve, including slips and damage to the bridges. As of lately, the track has been closed for repairs. Always check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website for the latest updates before you head out to ensure the trail has been safely reopened for visitors.
The journey into the heart of the Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve begins the moment you step out of your car. After a quick gear check, the adventure starts with a classic Kiwi experience: crossing a charming swing bridge. There’s something about the gentle sway of a bridge over a rushing stream that instantly signals you’ve left the "real world" behind.
Once across, the trail settles into a gentle rhythm as it follows the Kareaara Stream. The terrain here is relatively flat, making it an absolute winner for families with little ones or those who aren't looking for a massive mountain climb. You’ll be walking under a dense canopy of native forest that filters the sunlight into a soft, emerald glow. On a hot Hawke’s Bay summer day, the temperature drops noticeably as soon as you enter the bush, providing a refreshing, cool sanctuary.
The track itself is well-formed, but don't let the "easy" rating fool you into wearing jandals. The path winds through a thriving ecosystem where the ground can stay damp long after the sun has come out. You’ll encounter gentle inclines and sections that can become quite muddy and slippery, especially after a bit of typical New Zealand rain. Sturdy walking shoes or boots are definitely the way to go here to keep your footing secure.
A free and ample car park is available at the Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve, located directly off State Highway 2, approximately 25-27 km north of Napier. Picnic tables are provided at the car park, but there are no toilet facilities.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
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
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
As you wander deeper into the reserve, the sound of the stream is your constant companion. It’s a sensory experience—the smell of damp moss and decomposing leaf litter, the sight of towering ferns, and the cool air brushing against your skin. It takes about 15 minutes of easy strolling to reach the star of the show: the waterfall.
The undisputed highlight of this walk is, of course, the Te Ana Falls. While there are many waterfalls in the North Island, Te Ana has a unique, secluded charm. It’s a "horsetail" style waterfall, meaning the water maintains contact with the rock face as it plunges gracefully into a hidden cove.
Depending on who you ask (or which map you’re looking at), the falls are reported to be anywhere between 10 and 30 metres high. Regardless of the official measurement, the sight of the white water cascading against the dark, mossy rocks is breathtaking. The base of the falls forms a shallow, clear pool that is simply irresistible on a warm day. It’s a popular spot for a "refreshing splash" (which is Kiwi-speak for "it’s quite cold but totally worth it!") or even a full swim for the brave.
For the photographers among us, the cove offers endless angles. The way the mist rises from the pool creates a dreamy, ethereal atmosphere. If you’re visiting after a period of rain, the falls transform from a graceful ribbon into a powerful roar, showcasing the raw energy of the Hawke's Bay backcountry.
Another highlight is the sheer accessibility of the native bush. Because the track is so short, you get to experience high-quality ngahere (forest) without having to hike for hours. It’s an immersive natural experience that feels much deeper and more remote than its 2km distance suggests.
Finding the Te Ana Falls Track is straightforward, making it an easy addition to a day trip north of Napier.
The reserve is a haven for native birdlife, and the Te Ana Falls Track is one of the best places in the area to hear the "orchestra of the bush." Because the forest is so lush, the birds are very active year-round.
Keep your ears open for the distinctive, melodic chiming of the tūī. They are incredibly common here and often perform elaborate aerial acrobatics above the canopy. You’ll also likely hear the heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of wings from the kererū (our iconic New Zealand wood pigeon). These large, iridescent green and white birds are often seen perched precariously on thin branches, feasting on berries.
As you walk, you’ll almost certainly be joined by fantails (pīwakawaka). These friendly little birds love to follow hikers, flitting around your feet to catch the tiny insects disturbed by your footsteps. If you stay quiet and move slowly, you might also spot bellbirds (korimako), silver-eyes, or hear the repetitive, high-pitched call of the grey warbler (riroriro).
For those with a keen eye for the smaller details, take a look into the clear pools of the Kareaara Stream. If you’re lucky and the water is still, you might spot kōura (freshwater crayfish) hiding among the rocks. It’s a great activity for kids to see how many "hidden" creatures they can find in the water.
The Te Ana Falls Track is a beautiful destination throughout the year, but each season brings its own flavour:
Practical Tips for your visit: 1. Footwear: As mentioned, even though it's an easy walk, the track can be slippery. Wear shoes with good grip. 2. Timing: The best time to start is mid-morning. This allows the sun to get high enough to reach into the valley and illuminate the waterfall, but gets you back before the afternoon heat peaks. 3. What to Pack: Bring a water bottle, some light snacks, and a towel if you’re planning on a dip. Don't forget the insect repellent—the damp bush environment is a favourite for sandflies! 4. Weather: Be aware that this area can be prone to sudden changes. If there has been heavy rain in the hills, the stream can rise quickly. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
The Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve is more than just a pretty spot; it’s a significant remnant of the vast forests that once covered this part of the Hawke’s Bay coast. For the local Māori, this land holds deep ancestral connections, and the streams have historically been important sources of food and fresh water.
Geologically, the area is fascinating. The falls are formed by water cutting through layers of sedimentary rock, a process that has taken thousands of years to create the dramatic cove we see today. The reserve is also a testament to conservation efforts in the region. Maintaining these pockets of native bush is vital for providing "bird corridors," allowing native species to move safely between the coast and the inland ranges.
The recent closures due to weather events serve as a stark reminder of the power of nature in this region. The slips and damage are part of the ongoing story of a landscape that is constantly being reshaped by the elements. By visiting responsibly and following DOC guidelines, we help ensure these special places remain protected for future generations.
Once you’ve finished your loop and made it back to the car, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite. Since there are no shops at the reserve, your best bet is to head back south toward Napier.
The Te Ana Falls Track is a little slice of Hawke’s Bay magic. It’s accessible, beautiful, and a great reminder that you don’t have to go far to find something truly spectacular. Enjoy the birdsong, enjoy the mist of the falls, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a walk in the New Zealand bush.
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
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
Gerygone igata
Small greyish songbird also known as Riroriro. Has a distinctive trembling song often heard before seen.
Best time: Year-round
Todiramphus sanctus
Recognisable by its iridescent blue-green plumage, the kōtare is a skilled hunter, diving for fish and insects in wetland and river environments.
Best time: Spring-Summer