Rere Falls: Gisborne's Stunning Waterfall

If you’re planning a trip to Gisborne and love discovering beautiful, off-the-beaten-path spots, then you’re in for a treat. Rere Falls is one of those places that is absolutely worth the trip.

I’m here to share everything you need to know before you go. I’ve been lucky enough to visit a few times, and every time I go, I discover something new to love about it.

Whether you’re looking for a stunning waterfall, a peaceful picnic spot, or even a bit of adventure at the nearby Rere Rockslide, this place has it all.

In this guide, I’ll cover how to get there, where to park, the best time to visit, and what to bring, so you’ll be fully prepared to make the most of your visit. Let’s dive in!

Water tumbling over the edge of Rere Falls.

Getting to Rere Falls

Rere Falls is an easy drive from Gisborne, taking around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on road conditions. You’ll head inland along Wharekopae Road, which winds through rolling hills and beautiful farmland.

The drive itself is a very pretty, with scenic countryside views and plenty of spots to stop for a photo along the way.

If you’re coming from further away, Gisborne is your closest city, and it’s a great place to base yourself. There are plenty of accommodation options, from beachside hotels to cozy farm stays, and you can easily spend a few days exploring the area before heading out to Rere Falls.

You can find directions HERE.

Parking at Rere Falls

One of the great things about Rere Falls is that parking is easy and free! There is a designated parking area right next to the falls, making it super convenient for visitors.

The parking area isn’t huge, but it’s usually not a problem to find a spot unless you’re visiting on a particularly busy summer weekend.

If you’re planning to spend a bit of time here, be mindful that there aren’t many facilities, so it’s best to come prepared with everything you need before you arrive.

Woman standing at the base of the waterfall looking at the water tumbling down onto the rocks.

Why Should you Visit Rere Falls?

Unlike some waterfalls that require a long trek to reach, Rere Falls is conveniently located right by the roadside.

As you approach, you’ll hear the rush of water before you even see it. The waterfall spans about 20 meters across and cascades gently over a wide rock face into a shallow pool below.

Rere Falls isn’t what you would typically call an amazing waterfall, but I like that it is quite unique. I could sit and watch the water all day under the shade of a tree.

Best Time to Visit

While Rere Falls is beautiful year-round, the best time to visit is after rain, when the waterfall is at its most impressive.

During the dry season, the water flow can decrease, making it less dramatic. The warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (November to March), are ideal if you’re planning to swim or wade in the water.

We were here during March and it had plenty of water.

If you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting early in the morning or on a weekday. Weekends, especially in summer, can get a bit busier with locals and tourists stopping by to cool off.

The view from the carpark through the trees to Rere Falls.

Rere Rockslide: The Ultimate Natural Waterslide

Just a short drive (about 2 km) from Rere Falls, you’ll find another natural wonder, Rere Rockslide. This spot is an absolute must-visit, especially if you love a bit of adventure.

Rere Rockslide is a 60 metre long smooth rock formation with a steady flow of water running down it. The result? A natural waterslide that you can ride down on mattresses, inflatable toys, or even old boogie boards. It’s a thrilling ride, and trust me, you’ll want to go again and again!

We went down so many times and I could have done it so many more. I stuck with the inflatable mattress so I had plenty of space to lie down. This went a bit slower that the body boards but it was still fast enough to enjoy. We also saw a group of girls there with a small inflatable pool which was cool as well.

A few tips if you’re planning to tackle the rockslide:

Bring something to slide on – bodyboards and inflatable mattresses or pool toys work best.
Wear swimwear that you don’t mind getting a bit scuffed up. Ladies, I wouldn’t recommend wearing a bikini.
Be mindful of water levels – after heavy rain, the current can be quite strong.
Watch out for small rocks at the bottom – try to keep your feet up as you land!

Woman standing by the waterfall with water fall down behind her.

Other Things to Do Nearby

If you have time, the surrounding area has plenty to offer:

Eastwoodhill Arboretum – New Zealand’s national arboretum, perfect for a peaceful walk among rare and exotic trees.
Gisborne’s beaches – After a day at Rere Falls and Rockslide, head back to Gisborne for a sunset walk on the beach.
Wine tasting – Gisborne is famous for its chardonnay, so why not visit a local winery?

FAQ About Visiting Rere Falls

Is Rere Falls suitable for swimming?

Yes, you can swim here but the water quality isn’t the best. Make sure to head over to the Rere Rockslide as well.

Is there an entry fee for Rere Falls?

No, Rere Falls and Rere Rockslide are both completely free to visit!

Are there any facilities at Rere Falls?

Yes there are some basic toilets here for you to use.

Can I bring my dog to Rere Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed, but they should be kept under control, as this is a natural area.

Is Rere Rockslide safe for kids?

It depends on their confidence in the water. Older kids and teens will love it, but younger children should be closely supervised.

The large pool of water at the base of Rere Falls.

Final Thoughts – Rere Falls

Rere Falls is one of those special places that captures the beauty and adventure of New Zealand in one spot. Whether you’re taking a refreshing dip, capturing stunning photos, or sliding down Rere Rockslide, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.

If you’re planning a trip to Gisborne, make sure to add Rere Falls to your itinerary, you won’t regret it!