Kawerau: River Landscapes, Whitewater and Discoveries

Kawerau combines a riverside landscape at the foot of Putauaki with unusual ways to enjoy active and relaxing days away. A purpose-built whitewater slalom course, a heated aquatic centre, trails through bush and forest, and a museum about local history offer different ways to shape your trip. You can decide whether you’d like to discover Kawerau mainly through its water, nature or culture.

Whitewater and Swimming

The whitewater slalom course is a distinctive feature of the town. There is a viewing platform and an electronic timing system at the course. Kawerau hosted the World Rafting Champs in 2013. This event is part of the town’s sporting history; it is a distinct historical occasion, not a statement about a current programme.

The Maurie Kjar Aquatic Centre in central Kawerau, opposite the Kawerau isite, offers a different kind of water experience. The heated aquatic centre is free and includes a spa, a toddler pool and a jumping pillow, as well as the swimming pool. This gives you a choice of facilities for swimming and play. If you’re travelling with children, you could also consider Ruruanga Stream at Stoneham Walk, where children under 14 can fish for trout.

Local History and Visitor Information

The Sir James Fletcher Kawerau Museum is located in the Kawerau District Library at Jellicoe Court. It preserves and displays a wide range of material on Kawerau’s history. A visit adds a cultural dimension to your stay and gives local history its own place alongside outdoor activities.

The Kawerau isite Visitor Information Centre is on Plunket Street. Permits for access to Tarawera Falls are available there. Access to the falls’ car park is from Kawerau via private forestry roads and also requires a permit. Keep this requirement in mind when planning a visit to the falls.

River, Walking Trails and Golf

Near Kawerau, the Tarawera River runs at the foot of Putauaki through a scenic reserve. Walking trails in Kawerau also wind through native bush and forest, with views of the river. For a shorter walk, Stoneham Walk offers a short route through the town’s gardens and parks. Kawerau’s gardens and reserves are close to town and are suitable for weekend walks.

Nearby, the Tarawera Falls Track follows the Tarawera River upstream to a lookout at the falls. Information panels there explain the cultural and natural significance of the area. The trail combines views of the falls with information about the surroundings; the permit requirement for access still applies.

For golf enthusiasts, Kawerau Golf Course offers a flat, easy-to-walk 18-hole, par-71 course beside the Tarawera River. The course features mountain views and abundant birdlife. Alongside the trails and whitewater, it provides another option for a stay focused on outdoor activities.

Find the Right Holiday Rental for Your Trip

These different interests can help you decide what Kawerau has to offer, without limiting your stay to a single activity. If you’re planning a visit to Tarawera Falls, factor the permit and access via private forestry roads into your plans.

For the broader travel overview: Kawerau District.