KAWERAU ACTIVITIES

Kawerau is surrounded by a wealth of natural resources, none more so than the Tarawera River. Flowing through the heart of New Zealand's enchanting North Island, the Tarawera River offers a tranquil escape into nature's embrace. Wander along its banks, where lush forests and majestic peaks frame the serenity of its crystal-clear waters, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its scenic wonders.

The Tarawera Falls are the most spectacular falls in the Bay of Plenty. The Tarawera Rivers plunges 65 metres down a sheer cliff before tumbling down bush-lined rapids. The river bed around the falls is carved into ancient volcanic rocks and the high cliffs are thought to be the eroded end face of an ancient lava flow that poured from Mt. Tarawera about 11,000 years ago.

Kawerau is the only town in New Zealand that has a purpose made whitewater slalom course. It has recently been upgraded with a new viewing walkway and electronic timing system. Kawerau was a venue for the 2013 World Rafting Champs and is one of a few top venues in New Zealand for major Canoe Slalom races.

Mount Edgecumbe (Putauaki), which is the most iconic natural land mark in the Eastern Bay of Plenty and also the venue for the legendary Kawerau King of the Mountain Race held each year in late October.

Kawerau has a free, thermally heated swimming pool complex, beside Prideaux Park. The complex has a large outdoor recreation and play area, where barbecue and picnic tables are available for families and larger groups. There is a large 30 metre pool which is divided by a bulkhead into a 25 metre pool and a 5 metre pool, and two smaller pools for children. The latest addition to the complex is a sizable spa pool. All pools have some sun shading.

Experience a taste of the edge, Mata specialty beers brewed with pure artesian water. Pop in for free tastings! Site tours of the manufacturing and brewing facility are welcomed by prior appointment; taste the difference of beers utilizing our famous pure Kawerau water.

The Kawerau Golf Course is on flat easy walking land adjacent to the Tarawera River and, with mountain views and an abundance of bird life, it is one of the most scenic courses in the Bay of Plenty. An 18 hole par 71 for both men and women it can be a challenging course with the 6th, 15th and 18th holes a true test of a golfer's skills. The Kawerau Golf Course is open all year round and always welcomes visitors.

The central location of Kawerau provides access to a large range of opportunities for both lake and river fishing. Lake Tarawera is a deep, clear lake with excellent water quality all year round. Exciting fishing exists in the forests above Kawerau and rainbow trout averaging 1.5 kg are present in high numbers in swift water. The Ruruanga Stream flows through Kawerau's Stoneham Walkway and past the town.

The Tarawera River begins at the eastern end of Lake Tarawera and heads east to the coast through some impressive volcanic geology and via the township of Kawerau. The river offers good Grade 2 and 3 rapids and can be run from about 10km below the Tarawera Falls down to Kawerau.

The Onepū Mountain Bike Park is a great place for all types of riders. The terrain is flat to rolling, which means there is only gentle climbing – even the smallest member of your group will make it around the trails.

There are several great walks within the Kawerau district, which vary from 20 minute short walks to longer day tramps, for the intrepid.

The Waterwheel project began in 1990 by people in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, who were keen to preserve a vanishing history – the industrial archaeology of New Zealand. For 18 years, volunteers have saved or restored donated machinery, vehicles and equipment.