Rainbow Falls
A stunning waterfall with an easy, accessible path, offering breathtaking views and a chance to see a magical rainbow.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
More powerful cascade
Rainbow Falls
Best Time
More powerful cascade
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning waterfall with an easy, accessible path, offering breathtaking views and a chance to see a magical rainbow.
"Fabulous, breath-taking beautiful falls with easy access for everyone!"
🚗 Easy Parking & Access
Large car park available, with a very short, mostly paved walk to the falls. Great for all ages! :car:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
While the main path is easy, some areas and longer trails can be slippery, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Cascade
Main viewing platform
Witness the powerful water tumble down, creating a breathtaking spectacle, especially after rainfall.
The Swimming Hole
Base of the falls
A refreshing spot to cool off, bordered by lush vegetation. Be cautious of currents.
The Weir Viewpoint
Downstream from the falls
Offers a different perspective of the river's flow and the surrounding natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Accessibility and Trail Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Parking & Access
Large car park available, with a very short, mostly paved walk to the falls. Great for all ages! :car:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
While the main path is easy, some areas and longer trails can be slippery, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Rainbow
Visit when the sun is out and the mist is high for a chance to see a beautiful rainbow! :rainbow:
💧 Wash Feet in Pools
If you visit the pools area, it's recommended to wash your feet in the designated bay. :wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Parking & Access
Large car park available, with a very short, mostly paved walk to the falls. Great for all ages! :car:
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
While the main path is easy, some areas and longer trails can be slippery, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Rainbow
Visit when the sun is out and the mist is high for a chance to see a beautiful rainbow! :rainbow:
💧 Wash Feet in Pools
If you visit the pools area, it's recommended to wash your feet in the designated bay. :wave:
🚶♀️ Explore Longer Trails
The trailhead also marks the start of longer hikes along the KeriKeri River for more exploration. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Rainbow Falls for its stunning beauty and accessibility. The short, well-maintained path makes it a hit with families and those seeking an easy nature experience. While the main attraction is the powerful cascade, the chance to see a rainbow adds a magical element. Some caution is advised near the water due to currents.
"Beautiful and easy walk! The short track from the car park is wheelchair accessible and well maintained. There are picnic areas and toilets nearby, which makes it great for families. The walk follows the riverbank and leads to the stunning Rainbow Falls — absolutely worth the visit! There are three viewing points with amazing views of the waterfall."
Sivan Travelholic
"Large car park and just a 3 min walk to the falls. Worth a visit. Water tumbles down from a height and the river is fast flowing over rocks. Path is very easy and mainly tarmac and boardwalk. Other longer walk start from here."
Jerry Lovegrove
"Fabulous , breath-taking beautiful falls.
3 spots to view - falls, pool and weir. A short walk and must wash feet in the wash bay for the pools area. Car park great and toilets good!"
Lancia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rainbow Falls is easily accessible with a large car park. The main path from the car park is a short, well-maintained, and even wheelchair-accessible walk, taking only about 3 minutes to reach the falls. +1
Yes, there is a large car park available at the Rainbow Falls trailhead, making it convenient for visitors. +1
Yes, you can drive directly to the Rainbow Falls trailhead where ample parking is available.
Rainbow Falls is located in the North Island of New Zealand, near Whangārei and is a popular spot for those exploring the region.
Yes, you can easily find directions to Rainbow Falls online, and the trailhead is well-marked for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no admission fee required to visit Rainbow Falls, and the main viewing areas are freely accessible.
Rainbow Falls is typically open year-round during daylight hours, as it is an outdoor natural attraction.
No, there is no entrance fee for Rainbow Falls. Access to the main viewing areas is free for all visitors.
Swimming is possible in the pool below the falls, but caution is advised due to strong currents and slippery rocks.
Visitors are advised against entering or standing near the riverbanks, especially above the falls, due to hazards like flash flooding and strong currents.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main walk to Rainbow Falls is a short, easy, and well-maintained path, suitable for most visitors, including those with wheelchairs. Longer trails also start from here. +1
The primary trail to the main viewing area of Rainbow Falls is very short, approximately a 3-minute walk from the car park. Longer hiking trails are also available. +1
Yes, Rainbow Falls is very family-friendly due to the short, accessible walk, picnic areas, and toilets nearby.
You can see the main waterfall, a swimming pool at its base, and a weir further downstream, offering multiple viewing perspectives.
Yes, there are toilets available at Rainbow Falls, adding to the convenience for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light for photography, while midday sun can be harsh. Visiting after rain can enhance the waterfall's power for dramatic shots.
Yes, if the sun is shining and there's mist from the waterfall, you have a good chance of seeing a rainbow, especially during certain times of the day.
There are multiple viewing platforms offering different angles of the falls, the pool, and the weir, providing diverse photographic opportunities.
Extreme caution is advised near the water. Entering or standing too close to the riverbanks is hazardous due to strong currents and potential flash flooding.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire waterfall and its surroundings. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While swimming is possible in the pool below, parents should exercise extreme caution due to currents and slippery rocks. Stick to the designated viewing areas for the safest experience. The accessibility and straightforward nature of the visit make it a stress-free outing for families looking for a beautiful natural spot.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Be prepared for varying trail conditions if you venture beyond the main path. Sturdy footwear is recommended, and it's wise to check trail maps and conditions beforehand. The opportunity to combine a visit to the iconic Rainbow Falls with a more challenging hike makes it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
📸 Photographers
The surrounding vegetation adds lushness to the scene, and the different viewing platforms allow for varied compositions. For those seeking the iconic rainbow shot, visit on a sunny day when mist is present. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing the waterfall's beauty and potential rainbows.
Remember to be mindful of safety when positioning yourself for shots near the water; the most scenic spots may also be the most hazardous. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails Around Rainbow Falls
Some visitors mention the possibility of reaching other falls like Turtleback Falls and Drift Falls from the vicinity, though these may require more dedicated hiking and potentially different access points. Always check local trail maps and conditions before embarking on longer treks, and be prepared with appropriate gear and water.
Remember that while the main path is easy, venturing onto less maintained trails increases the risk of encountering uneven terrain, slippery surfaces, and potentially more challenging conditions. Proper footwear and awareness of your surroundings are key for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience beyond the primary viewing areas.
Safety First: Understanding the Risks
These warnings are not to be taken lightly. Rescues in such environments are dangerous for both the individual and first responders. Visitors are urged to respect the power of the water and stay in designated safe viewing areas. The easy, paved paths are designed for enjoyment without unnecessary risk.
Even when swimming in the designated pool below the falls, caution is advised. The riverbed can be slippery, and currents can be unpredictable. Always assess the conditions before entering the water and never swim alone. Heeding these safety guidelines ensures a pleasant visit for everyone.
The Magic of the Rainbow
While the main waterfall is impressive on its own, the potential for a rainbow adds an extra layer of wonder to the experience. Early morning or late afternoon light, when the sun is at a lower angle, can often create the most dramatic and colorful arcs. Patience might be required, as the conditions need to align perfectly.
Even without a visible rainbow, the sheer beauty of Rainbow Falls, with its powerful flow and surrounding greenery, makes it a worthwhile destination. The chance to see a rainbow is a delightful bonus that enhances an already breathtaking natural spectacle.
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