Rainbow Reach Swing Bridge
Cross the iconic swing bridge over the emerald Waiau River, a stunning gateway to the Kepler Track in Fiordland National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer people, better photos
Rainbow Reach Swing Bridge
Best Time
Fewer people, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cross the iconic swing bridge over the emerald Waiau River, a stunning gateway to the Kepler Track in Fiordland National Park.
"The greenest river! So beautiful. One hundred percent recommend a little excursion there."
Embrace the Swing!
Walking across the suspension bridge can be a bit wobbly, but it's part of the adventure! :athletic_shoe:
Pack for Hiking
Even for a short visit, wear comfortable shoes. The Kepler Track offers varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 375 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rainbow Reach Swing Bridge
Waiau River
An iconic suspension bridge offering thrilling river crossings and stunning views of the emerald Waiau River.
Waiau River Views
Along the bridge and Kepler Track
Marvel at the incredibly green, clear waters of the Waiau River, often described as the 'most beautiful river' in New Zealand.
Kepler Track Trailhead
Adjacent to the bridge
Start or end your Kepler Track adventure here, or enjoy a scenic day hike through diverse beech forests.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Kepler Track Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Embrace the Swing!
Walking across the suspension bridge can be a bit wobbly, but it's part of the adventure! :athletic_shoe:
Pack for Hiking
Even for a short visit, wear comfortable shoes. The Kepler Track offers varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Itinerary December-January
Hey all, we will be in NZ from December 12th to January 19th. Is this planning realistic and do you guys have any tips? Day 1: arive at Christchurch in the evening. Day 2: spend the day in Christchurch and kayak Day 3: pick up camper, buy supplies, drive to Potts Lodge Day…
River's Emerald Hue
The Waiau River's unique green color is a must-see, even if you're not hiking. ✨
Toilet Facilities
There's a basic toilet near the carpark, but it's noted as not the nicest. Plan accordingly! 🚽
Another US Tourist Itinerary to Roast!
Hey everyone! Just wanted to first thank you all for contributing to all the information in response to a couple previous posts of mine, and many others on this sub! Guide books, Google Maps, and internet searches are helpful in their own right, but it's so, so useful being able…
Tips
from all over the internet
Embrace the Swing!
Walking across the suspension bridge can be a bit wobbly, but it's part of the adventure! :athletic_shoe:
Pack for Hiking
Even for a short visit, wear comfortable shoes. The Kepler Track offers varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
River's Emerald Hue
The Waiau River's unique green color is a must-see, even if you're not hiking. ✨
Toilet Facilities
There's a basic toilet near the carpark, but it's noted as not the nicest. Plan accordingly! 🚽
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, vibrant green Waiau River and the thrilling experience of crossing the iconic suspension bridge. It's a highly recommended stop for its natural beauty and as a gateway to the Kepler Track, though some note the basic toilet facilities.
"A beautiful suspended bridge above a river, located between lake Manapouri and Te Anau. It is also one of the beginning points of the Kepler track.
We went from here to the Te Anau stop, which was approximately 10km one way. Altogether, the hike took about 6-7 hours with that checkpoint.
Despite the length, the terrain is moderately difficult and very well shaded, with a variety of different forest types, which gives this part of the hike a lot of scenic variety."
German Kolesnikov
"Very cool suspension bridge! A bit scary walking across, but all adds to the adventures. :) We booked a bus from here back to Te Anau at the end of our Kepler Track trek as we wanted to cut some mileage off and have more time and energy to explore Te Anau. I'm really glad we made this decision!
At the road, you'll find a toilet (the least nice toilet on the whole track haha), a couple picnic tables, and some signage of what to expect on the Kepler Track."
Leilani Osmundson
"This is one of the ending points for the Kepler track, or a starting point for a number of day hikes. We did the hike to the Shallow Bay hut, as we had completed the Kepler a few years back. This hike starts by crossing an impressive swing bridge over the Waiau river through beech forest to the hut. A beautiful day hike out & back"
Diana Waines
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rainbow Reach is located on State Highway 95, between Lake Manapouri and Te Anau. It's easily accessible by car. If you're coming from Te Anau, it's about a 20-30 minute drive. Many shuttle services also operate to this point for Kepler Track hikers.
Yes, there is a carpark available at Rainbow Reach, which is convenient for day visitors and hikers starting or ending their Kepler Track journey.
Absolutely! You can walk across the swing bridge and enjoy the views of the Waiau River without committing to the full Kepler Track. There are also shorter day hike options.
From Queenstown, you'll typically drive towards Te Anau (approx. 2-hour drive) and then continue on SH95 towards Manapouri and Rainbow Reach. Renting a car offers the most flexibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Rainbow Reach and walk across the swing bridge. It's a public access point.
Rainbow Reach is accessible at all times as it's an outdoor location. However, daylight hours are best for enjoying the scenery and for safety.
For most day hikes originating from Rainbow Reach, no advance booking is required. However, if you plan to stay overnight in a DOC hut on the Kepler Track, booking is essential.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk across the iconic swing bridge, admire the vibrant green Waiau River, and start or end sections of the Kepler Track. It's a great spot for photos and a picnic.
Some visitors find the swing bridge a bit wobbly and thrilling, but it's generally considered safe. It adds to the adventure!
While not guaranteed, you might spot native New Zealand birds in the surrounding beech forests. Keep an eye out for tūī, bellbirds, and fantails.
Yes, there are picnic tables available near the carpark, making it a pleasant spot for a packed lunch amidst nature.
The Kepler Track from Rainbow Reach offers a beautiful walk through diverse beech forests, with sections along the Waiau River. It's moderately challenging with well-maintained paths.
📸 📸 Photography
The swing bridge itself is a prime photo opportunity. Also, capture the stunning emerald green of the Waiau River from various angles along the bridge and the start of the track.
Mornings often offer softer light and fewer people, making it ideal for photography. However, the river's color is striking throughout the day.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check with local authorities (like DOC) before flying a drone in national park areas to ensure compliance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit