In a pretty, bush-filled ravine where the Kaiate Stream drops over ignimbrite bluffs, a series of cascades and waterfalls combine to create the magic which is Te Rerekawau Falls. They are sign-posted from Welcome Bay Road as “Kaiate Falls”. Drive up Waitao Road and after about 4.9 kilometres turn left at Kaiate Falls Road.

The scenic reserve containing the falls is a further 1kilometre and a vehicle track leads to the car park.The road beyond the reserve continues on to Te Puke.  Above the car park a picnic area, with tables and a toilet, offers good views towards Mount Maunganui and the Port of Tauranga.

The walking tracks are well formed, although quite steep with steps in some places.The main track leads to the top, and then to the base of the upper series of falls (pictured).

From there it crosses the stream and continues down to the base of the lower falls, where there is a popular swimming hole. Crossing the stream again the track loops back up past some lovely big puriri and kohekohe trees. A short side track leads back to the base of the upper falls, or you may continue on the uphill track back to the car park, with a great view of the falls on the way.

There is another track to the left, just below the car park, which follows the stream back to the road bridge.