Last updated November 2026
Rainbow Falls are on the Kerikeri River at Kerikeri, in the Bay of Islands. DOC’s Rainbow Falls Walk is graded Easiest and takes about 10 minutes one way from the car park at the end of Rainbow Falls Road, and it is suitable for buggies and wheelchairs.
Two viewing points look over the falls, and a third sits near an old weir that once supplied Kerikeri’s first electricity. The falls can also be reached on the longer Kerikeri River Track. It is a day trip from Whangārei, about 66 km away; check DOC before you go.
Practical Information
- Start
- Rainbow Falls car park, end of Rainbow Falls Road, off Waipapa Road, Kerikeri
- Distance from the city
- About 66 km north-west of Whangārei in a straight line
- Walking time
- About 10 minutes one way
- Grade
- Easiest
- Accessibility
- Suitable for buggies; wheelchair accessible
- Dogs
- No dogs on the Kerikeri Basin walking tracks (kiwi and other wildlife)
- Facilities
- Picnic areas and a toilet at the end of Rainbow Falls Road
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
About Rainbow Falls
A short track from the car park runs under puriri, tōtara, karaka and mānuka to the viewing platforms, and DOC says you may hear tūī and see fantails along the way.
Two viewing points look across to the falls on the Kerikeri River. A third viewing point is beside a historic weir, at the river’s edge. That weir supplied the first electricity to early Kerikeri township, and the remains of the hydro-electric station and weir can still be seen. An information panel at the rest area tells the story.
Because the walk is short and graded Easiest, it works for a quick stop on a Bay of Islands day out from Whangārei, and for families with buggies.
The Kerikeri River Track
The Rainbow Falls Walk links with the Kerikeri River Track, which also reaches the falls. DOC describes that track as more challenging and with fewer barriers than the short walk from Rainbow Falls Road, so allow more time and keep children close if you come that way.
Swimming and Cautions
DOC says Rainbow Falls is not a recommended swimming place, and points to the risks of swimming at waterfalls and around weirs. There are steep drops near the track, so stay on it and supervise children. DOC also asks visitors to lock their cars and keep valuables out of sight, and says no fires, camping or biking are allowed.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Rainbow Falls Walk: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the walk to Rainbow Falls?
DOC gives about 10 minutes one way from the car park.
Is it suitable for wheelchairs and buggies?
Yes. DOC says the walk suits buggies and is wheelchair accessible.
Where do I park?
At the car park at the end of Rainbow Falls Road, off Waipapa Road in Kerikeri.
Can I swim at Rainbow Falls?
DOC says it is not a recommended swimming place.
Can I bring my dog?
No. Dogs aren’t allowed on the walking tracks in the Kerikeri Basin because of the risk to kiwi and other wildlife.
Are there toilets?
Yes. DOC lists picnic areas and a toilet at the end of Rainbow Falls Road.
How far is it from Whangārei?
About 66 km in a straight line, in Kerikeri.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.