Wairēinga / Bridal Veil Falls facts for kids
| Location | Waikato, New Zealand |
|---|---|
| Type | Plunge |
| Total height | 55 metres (180 ft) |
| Watercourse | Pakoka River |
Wairēinga / Bridal Veil Falls (Māori Wairēinga) is a plunge waterfall located along the Pakoka River in the Waikato area of New Zealand. The waterfall is 55 m (180 ft) high, and has over time caused the formation of a large pool at the base of the waterfall. The falls are in the 217 ha (540 acres) Wairēinga Scenic Reserve (created in 1884) with tawa-dominated forest.
Formation
The water cascades over a basalt cliff, formed by volcanic activity, when an Okete Volcanics vent, on the 226 m (741 ft) hill just to the north, erupted about 2 million years ago and blocked the valley.
Access and recreational activities
Approximately 15 minutes from the nearby town of Raglan, the falls can be found after an easy 10-minute walk through native bush, along the Pakoka River. Facilities include parking, long-drop toilets and four lookout platforms. River crossings are bridged. It is a steep descent to the falls base, not handicap enabled, by 261 steps cut into a well maintained path.
400m beyond Bridal Veil car park, where Kawhia Rd becomes gravel, is the start of the 6 km Pipiwharauroa Way walking and cycling track.
Swimming and rock climbing
- The pool should not be swum in as water quality does not meet health standards for swimming.
- Abseiling and rock climbing are not permitted due to damage to endangered plant life (the threatened spider orchid Corybas “Kaitarakihi” (Corybas aff. rivularis)).
