Last updated June 2026
Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve lies 27 km north of Napier on State Highway 2 in Hawke’s Bay, offering visitors short family-friendly walks to two waterfalls and opportunities to splash in natural pools. The reserve protects regenerating native bush along the Kareaara Stream and forms part of the wider Tūtira area managed by the Department of Conservation. Easy access from Hastings makes it a popular half-day outing, with the main car park providing picnic tables and free parking. Tracks range from a gentle 30-minute return to Te Ana Falls to a longer 60-minute return to the 25-metre Tangoio Falls, while the 4.4 km Tangoio Walkway offers a more substantial bush experience. Native birds such as tūī and kererū are commonly heard, and the area supports koura in the streams.
Practical Information
| Location | 27 km north of Napier on SH2, Hawke’s Bay |
| Access | Free car park at the trailhead; no toilets on site |
| Tracks | Te Ana Falls: 2 km, 30 min return; Tangoio Falls: 4 km, 60 min return; Tangoio Walkway: 4.4 km, 2 hr |
| Entry fee | Free |
| Best for | Family walks, waterfall viewing, stream splashing |
| Status | Open; check DOC for any temporary closures |
About Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve
The reserve protects a pocket of regenerating native forest in the Tūtira area of Hawke’s Bay. Early Māori occupation and later European farming shaped the landscape before it became protected scenic reserve. Today the bush supports a range of native trees and provides habitat for forest birds.
Two waterfalls are the main draw. Te Ana Falls drops 10 metres into a pool where children can safely splash, while the three-tiered Tangoio Falls plunges 25 metres further upstream. Both are reached by well-formed tracks that follow the Kareaara Stream.
The setting offers a peaceful contrast to the nearby coast and vineyards, making the reserve a convenient stop on a day trip from Hastings. Picnic tables at the car park encourage visitors to linger before or after their walk.
Walking Tracks
The shortest option leads to Te Ana Falls in 30 minutes return over 2 km of easy track suitable for children. From the same starting point the path continues uphill for another 15 minutes to reach Tangoio Falls, making a 4 km, one-hour return journey.
The longer Tangoio Walkway covers 4.4 km in approximately two hours and can be walked in either direction, though north to south is mostly downhill. It passes through native forest, grassland and pine plantations, with one stream crossing that requires care after rain. The track is steep in places and crosses SH2 at one end.
Sturdy footwear is recommended year-round because sections become muddy after rain. Always check the current DOC page for track conditions before setting out.
Swimming and Water Activities
Te Ana Falls features a natural pool at its base where visitors, including children, can enjoy a splash on warm days. The water is cold even in summer, so most people wade or paddle rather than swim laps.
No official swimming ban exists at the reserve, although the pools are small and the water remains chilly. There are no lifeguards or changing facilities, so visitors should supervise children closely and be prepared for cool temperatures.
Stronger swimmers sometimes venture into deeper sections near Tangoio Falls, but the main appeal remains the short, scenic walk combined with a refreshing dip at Te Ana.
Day Trips from Hastings
Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve sits roughly 45–60 minutes’ drive north of Hastings, making it an easy addition to a Hawke’s Bay itinerary. Combine the visit with nearby Lake Tūtira or continue north to other coastal or forest destinations.
The free car park and picnic tables support a relaxed half-day outing. Pack water, snacks and insect repellent, and allow extra time for photography or birdwatching along the tracks.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the short, manageable walks that still deliver impressive waterfalls and a chance for kids to play in the stream.
Visitors note the cold but refreshing water at Te Ana Falls and the peaceful bush setting, though some mention muddy conditions after rain.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Official track descriptions, distances and current conditions for Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve.
Hastings District Council: Local information and links to Hawke’s Bay day-trip ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is swimming allowed at Tangoio Falls Scenic Reserve?
Yes, visitors can splash and wade in the pool at the base of Te Ana Falls; the water is cold year-round.
How long does it take to walk to the waterfalls?
Te Ana Falls is a 30-minute return walk; Tangoio Falls takes about 60 minutes return.
Are the tracks suitable for children?
The short walks to both waterfalls are described by DOC as easy and suitable for kids, though sturdy shoes help on muddy sections.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry and parking are free.
Are there toilets at the reserve?
No toilet facilities are provided at the car park or along the tracks.
Can I camp at Tangoio Falls?
Freedom camping is restricted to self-contained vehicles for a maximum of four nights per calendar month.
What birds might I see?
Tūī and kererū are commonly heard and seen in the native bush.
Is the track ever closed?
Sections have closed temporarily after landslides; always check the DOC website before visiting.
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