Charlie's Rock
A stunning natural spot in Kerikeri featuring a waterfall, cliff jumping, and a beautiful bushwalk. Perfect for adventure and picnics.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warmest water for swimming
Charlie's Rock
Best Time
Warmest water for swimming
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning natural spot in Kerikeri featuring a waterfall, cliff jumping, and a beautiful bushwalk. Perfect for adventure and picnics.
"A beautiful, peaceful walk alongside the river with a waterfall and great jumping rocks!"
👟 Sturdy Shoes Needed
The track can be muddy and slippery. Waterproof boots are best!
🥶 Brace for Cold Water
The water is invigoratingly cold, even in summer. Pack towels!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Thrilling Jump
The waterfall pool
Leap from various rock levels into the expansive pool below. An exhilarating experience for the adventurous!
Scenic Bushwalk
Path to the falls
A beautiful, peaceful walk through native bush with vibrant flowers and lush greenery.
Picnic Paradise
Beside the falls
Enjoy a romantic picnic with the soothing sound of the waterfall as your backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Chill!
Footwear is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Shoes Needed
The track can be muddy and slippery. Waterproof boots are best!
🥶 Brace for Cold Water
The water is invigoratingly cold, even in summer. Pack towels!
I live in new zealand and haven’t really seen much of the country so i have made it my goal to visit as many waterfalls and other locations as possible over the next year and you’re coming with me! i’ll be posting photos for every place i visit, hope you enjoy and appreciate this beautiful country.
Cliff jumping near Russell
🚗 Parking Advice
Park at the Croquet Club or golf course; follow signs carefully.
⚠️ Track Caution
Signs can be misleading. Look for the track near the river.
Planning for a 10 day trip from Auckland to Northland. Any interesting suggestions to visit
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Shoes Needed
The track can be muddy and slippery. Waterproof boots are best!
🥶 Brace for Cold Water
The water is invigoratingly cold, even in summer. Pack towels!
🚗 Parking Advice
Park at the Croquet Club or golf course; follow signs carefully.
⚠️ Track Caution
Signs can be misleading. Look for the track near the river.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the beautiful bushwalk and the exhilarating cliff jumping at Charlie's Rock. The refreshing, albeit cold, swim is a highlight for many. While the path can be muddy and the water chilly, the natural beauty and adventurous spirit make it a worthwhile stop for those seeking a unique outdoor experience.
"Easy little walk through nice bush to the falls."
Thomas Anderson
"Had a lovely romantic picnic here. Very nice (albeit shocking) cold swim! Gorgeous walk - though I wouldn't wear your nice shoes! Beautiful flowers on the way in."
Anna Vellenoweth
"Great spot - under 10 minutes walk each way although a bit rough/muddy close to the waterfall. We parked at the Croquet club, walked back towards KeriKeri a short way along the road (don't cross the bridge) and saw the sign for Charlies Rock. The arrow points the wrong way - the track starts right where the second sign is, leaving the road and goes towards the river beside the Croquet club.
Very pretty spot and well worth the short walk!"
John E
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Charlie's Rock is located in Kerikeri. You can park at the Croquet Club or the golf course. From the parking area, follow the signs for Charlie's Rock. Be aware that some signs might be misleading, so look for the track that leads towards the river.
Yes, parking is available near the Croquet Club or the golf course. These are the recommended starting points for the walk to Charlie's Rock.
The main access is via a bushwalk. The path can be a bit rough and muddy, especially closer to the waterfall. Sturdy footwear is essential.
No, you cannot drive directly to Charlie's Rock. It requires a short walk through a bush track from the designated parking areas.
Public transport options to Kerikeri are available, but getting directly to the trailhead might require a taxi or local bus service from the town center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Charlie's Rock is a natural attraction and does not require any tickets for entry. It's free to visit and enjoy.
Charlie's Rock is accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no official opening or closing times.
There is no entrance fee to visit Charlie's Rock. It's a public access area for everyone to enjoy.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to the unlit bush track and potential safety hazards. Stick to daylight hours.
No booking is required for Charlie's Rock. It's a natural spot that you can visit spontaneously.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activities include cliff jumping into the pool, swimming (though it's cold!), enjoying a picnic, and taking a scenic bushwalk.
The water is known to be quite cold, even in warmer months. It's a refreshing, albeit shocking, experience!
Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or hiking boots as the track can be muddy and slippery. Bring swimwear if you plan to swim and a towel.
The walk can be a bit challenging for very young children due to slippery sections. The cliff jumping is for older kids and adults. Consider Rainbow Falls as an alternative.
There are no public restrooms or facilities directly at Charlie's Rock. Plan accordingly before you arrive.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the waterfall cascading into the pool, the lush greenery along the bushwalk, and brave souls mid-jump. The surrounding rocks offer great vantage points.
It's challenging to take photos while cliff jumping. It's best to have someone else take photos of you or set up a waterproof camera securely.
A waterproof camera or phone case is highly recommended if you plan on getting close to the water or jumping. A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of the falls.
No, there are no restrictions on photography at Charlie's Rock. Enjoy capturing the natural beauty.
Morning light can be beautiful for the bushwalk, while midday offers good light for the waterfall. Be mindful of harsh shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you have younger kids, consider visiting Rainbow Falls instead, which is often recommended as a more accessible alternative. For families with older children who enjoy adventure, Charlie's Rock can be a fun outing, provided everyone wears appropriate footwear and understands the safety aspects of cliff jumping.
💑 Couples
It's a great spot for a unique date, offering both natural beauty and a bit of adventure. The short walk means you can easily fit it into a day trip, and the refreshing swim can be a fun shared activity.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Combine your visit with other local attractions like Rainbow Falls or the Stone Store. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your swimwear and a towel to make the most of your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Cliff Jumping
Many visitors describe the jump as exhilarating, with the cold water providing an extra jolt of adrenaline. While social media often showcases the most daring jumps, remember that safety is paramount. If you're unsure, observe others or stick to enjoying the view from the rocks.
Pro Tip: Always check the water conditions and ensure the area is safe for jumping. If in doubt, it's better to err on the side of caution.
Navigating the Bushwalk
Reviewers often highlight the beauty of the walk, describing it as peaceful and picturesque. However, some mention that the signs can be a bit confusing, and the path might be slippery after rain. It's advisable to wear sturdy, waterproof shoes to navigate the terrain comfortably.
Key Takeaway: The bushwalk is an integral part of the Charlie's Rock experience, offering a pleasant prelude to the main attraction. Be prepared for a slightly rugged path and enjoy the natural surroundings.
The Refreshing Dip
While the cold water might deter some, those who brave it often find it to be a highlight of their visit. It's a natural way to cool down and adds to the adventurous spirit of the location. Remember to bring towels and perhaps a change of clothes for after your swim.
Consideration: If you're sensitive to cold water or visiting during cooler months, you might prefer to admire the falls and enjoy a picnic rather than taking a dip.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit