Last updated May 2026
Maraetotara Falls is a popular substantial waterfall on the Maraetotara River 15 minutes’ drive south-east of Havelock North — with a substantial swimming hole at the base making it one of the most popular summer family swimming spots in Hawke’s Bay. A short 10–15 minute bush walk down wooden stairs from the parking area gets you to the falls and the pool. Free, family-friendly, and substantially used through the summer months.
Practical Information
| Location | Maraetotara Road, south-east of Havelock North — ~30 minutes’ drive from central Napier |
| Walk | 10–15 min from carpark down wooden stairs to the falls |
| Difficulty | Easy — short walk with substantial wooden stairs; uneven natural terrain in places |
| Swimming | Substantial swimming hole at the base of the falls — popular with families in summer |
| Parking | Free along the road; spaces fill on hot summer days |
| Facilities | None — bring water, food and any toilet needs (use Havelock North or Te Awanga) |
| Cost | Free |
| Camping | Self-contained vehicles permitted to overnight in the parking area |
About Maraetotara Falls
Maraetotara Falls is a substantial waterfall on the Maraetotara River, which flows from the hill country south of Havelock North down to meet the Tukituki River at Clive. The falls themselves are a substantial broad drop into a deep clear pool — the substantial flow over the substantial rock face creates the pool at the base, which is the substantial swimming destination.
The setting is substantial native bush along the river — the short walk from the parking area down the wooden stairs descends through mature bush to the falls. The substantial bush, the substantial waterfall, the substantial pool and the substantial coolness on hot summer days combine to make Maraetotara one of the most popular family swimming spots in the wider Napier–Hastings area.
The falls are owned and managed by Hastings District Council. There’s no entry fee, no formal facilities, and no full-time monitoring — Maraetotara is a substantial DIY destination requiring sensible preparation.
Getting There
From central Napier, the drive to Maraetotara Falls is around 30 minutes:
- Head south on SH2 / SH50 to Havelock North
- Through Havelock North, head south on Te Mata Road then Maraetotara Road
- Continue on Maraetotara Road for ~3 km toward Waimārama
- The carpark is on the left side of the road, signposted
Parking is on the road verge and fills on hot summer days — arrive early or be prepared for a short walk from a verge further along the road.
Swimming and Safety
The substantial pool at the base of the falls is the substantial drawcard. The pool is deep, clear and surrounded by substantial bush — substantial for cooling off on hot summer days. Standard waterfall-pool safety applies:
- Don’t jump from the top of the falls — submerged rocks and unknown depths make this hazardous and not recommended
- Check depth before diving from rocks at pool edge
- Swim only if confident — no lifeguard, no patrol, no rescue service
- Supervise children at all times
- Rivers can rise rapidly after heavy rain — check forecast before swimming
The water is fresh and can be substantially cold even in mid-summer. Bring a towel and warm layer for after swimming.
What Visitors Often Say
Reviewers consistently mention Maraetotara Falls as one of Hawke’s Bay’s best summer swimming holes — the substantial deep clear pool at the base of the waterfall, the bush setting, and the short 10–15 minute walk down wooden stairs from the road make it accessible without being crowded. The contrast between the warm summer air and the cold water gets the most mentions.
The critical practical tip from multiple reviewers: do not jump from the top of the falls. Submerged rocks and unknown depths have caused injuries. The pool itself is fine to swim in from the edges, but the river can rise rapidly after heavy rain — check the forecast before swimming. No toilets on-site, so plan accordingly.
Where to Learn More
Hastings District Council — Maraetotara Falls — official council page with current notices and access information.
Hawke’s Bay NZ — Maraetotara Falls — regional visitor guide with photos and additional context.
TripAdvisor — Maraetotara Falls reviews — visitor reviews and current condition reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the walk to Maraetotara Falls?
10–15 minutes from the parking area down wooden stairs to the falls. Easy walk.
Can I swim at Maraetotara Falls?
Yes — there’s a substantial deep clear pool at the base of the falls, popular with families through summer. No lifeguard; standard swimming safety applies.
Is Maraetotara Falls free?
Yes — free entry, no booking. Free parking on the road verge.
Can I jump from the top of Maraetotara Falls?
No — jumping from the top of the falls is not recommended due to submerged rocks and unknown depths. The pool is fine to swim in from the edges.
How far is Maraetotara Falls from Napier?
About 30 minutes’ drive via Havelock North.
Are there facilities at Maraetotara Falls?
No — no toilets, no shop. Bring water and any food. Toilets in Havelock North or Te Awanga.
Can I camp at Maraetotara Falls?
Self-contained vehicles are permitted to overnight in the parking area. Standard freedom-camping rules apply.
For more Napier-region waterfalls, see the waterfalls hub. Combine with a winery visit at Havelock North for a substantial day out.
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