Wainui Falls goddess

Cross farmland for a short distance, then go through a forest of nīkau palms, rātā trees and ferns.

The track climbs rapidly alongside spectacular granite boulders, following the Wainui River. There’s a great suspension bridge on the way – below this, you can see old logs piled up after massive floods.

You’ll know you’re close to the falls when you can hear the sound of rushing water.

Return to the Wainui Bay car park on the same track.

The track is popular with families and can be very busy throughout the day over the peak summer months when people flock to the Nelson/Tasman region.

The best time to complete this walk is in autumn when there are fewer people in the area, and while temperatures remain warm after the summer. You’ll also get to appreciate the natural flair and colour of nearby Takaka, where the locals will always stop to chat.