There are many hidden gems in New Zealand. From the North Island to the South, eager tourists may stumble upon the quaint and geothermally-active town of Kawhia, or the pristine landscapes of the Abel Tasman National Park, and even the petrified forest at Curio Bay, near the Catlins. However – this article intends to focus on other hidden gems, namely the New Zealand waterfalls that so many visitors overlook.

Waterfalls thrive in New Zealand, particularly in areas such as Rotorua, and contain many natural treasures. Our favourite waterfalls that too often go underappreciated include, but are certainly not limited to:

• Okere Falls at the Kaituna River

One of our favourite hidden gems in New Zealand is Okere Falls, situated at the Kaituna River in Rotorua. Okere Falls is made from a series of impressive cascades, that host a number of thrilling adventure sports – including the white water rafting expeditions that we at Kaituna Cascades provide. Their adrenaline-rushing thrills are enveloped by the Okere Falls Scenic Reserve, which provides visitors with the opportunity to trek down verdant walking tracks and admire the roaring waters from various perspectives.

• The Fissure of Tarawera Falls at the Tarawera River

In the Rotorua region, lucky visitors may happen upon Tarawera Falls, a waterfall that bursts directly from a fissure in a sheer rock face. This is an awe-inspiring image that demonstrates the power of Mother Nature in New Zealand. What makes Tarawera Falls, located amidst the beautiful Tarawera River, a New Zealand hidden gem, is the fact that you must hike through the equally picturesque Tarawera Forest to get there.

• Whangārei Falls at the Hātea River

The only waterfall in this list outside of the Rotorua region, Whangārei Falls is a much-needed honourable mention! Located on the outskirts of Whangārei in the Hātea River, not only is this a monumental waterfall that plunges over 26-metres, it is classically beautiful, and for the lucky adventurers that travel to Whangārei Falls, known as the most photogenic waterfall in New Zealand. Concealed behind vegetation, basalt cliffs and a surrounding park, Whangārei Falls remains an appreciated but hidden gem of New Zealand.

Out of all the things to do in Rotorua, and indeed in wider New Zealand, there’s nothing better than chasing waterfalls through a white water rafting expedition, where you can experience New Zealand’s hidden gems from a brand-new perspective. At Kaituna Cascades, our exhilarating white water rafting expeditions are expertly delivered, and easily booked through our website. For more information about our white water rafting trips, contact us as soon as possible.