Last Updated: 5th Nov 2024
Otainewainuku - Whataroa Falls
Submitted by Lance Knauf
Last Updated: 5th Nov 2024
Open
Grunt Factor: 13 ?
Gnarl Factor: 27 ?
8.8km
350m
350m
640m
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Last Updated: 5th Nov 2024
Submitted by Lance Knauf
Last Updated: 5th Nov 2024
Open
Grunt Factor: 13 ?
Gnarl Factor: 27 ?
8.8km
350m
350m
640m
Front country - easily accessible
Loop
Undulating, small hills only
Native bush
Easy Single Track
Moderate Single Track
Average Uphill Gradient: +9.5%
Average Downhill Gradient: -9.7%
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2:00
Slow
1:20
Moderate
1:00
Fast
From the DOC shelter on the western side of Mountain Road this route follows the anticlockwise track as it winds its way through thick bush to the lookout at the top of Otainewainuku. Take in the views from amongst the trees before continuing on your way. Note that early on the descent the track can get quite slippery but once its gets down on to flatter grounds in winds and undulates its way back to the DOC shelter.
Immediately across the road is the start of the Rimu track/Whataroa Falls which can be continued in the same anti-clockwise manner. Approx 800m from the road the track to Whataroa Falls breaks off towards the east. Follow the single track as it winds its way to the falls where the brave are tempted into the clear blue waters. Return via the same track until the Rimu loop track is reached where you can continue anticlockwise returning you to the carpark.
This trail includes the peak Otanewainuku.
Otainewainuku lookout has views of most of Bay of Plenty, including Rotorua. Whataroa Falls are a great swimming spot in the warmer months. Rimu loop track is scattered with ancient giants.
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Side of the road parking
28 km
31 minutes
No
No
Easy.
Unknown.
Waterproof leggings, Seam-sealed waterproof jacket, Windproof jacket, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Survival blanket, Cellphone, Map
Only accessible at Whataroa Falls
Slippery descending from Otainewainuku year around.
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Fastest Known Times (FKTs)
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BN
Nice relaxing Sunday trail run. Beautiful trail with varying terrain from sand, dirt, roots, rocks, mud and everything in between. Ran the waterfall track first with a brief stop for a dip, then battled up to the trig. A few trees across the track to navigate but all are passable and a running river down the left-hand trig track. Highly recommend for a nice run through the forest! - Moving time - 1:20
May 29, 2023
360 Views, a waterfall and single track - the perfect trail combo! We ran the hill first then to the waterfall loop. I’d do it the other way around next time. It’s A great family walk too if that’s more your thing.
May 23, 2022
I loved this run! Waterfalls, muddy rooty bush track, twists and turns! Will definitely come back to do more!
June 13, 2021
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