Last updated October 2026
The Hereheretau Road Rockslide is a natural waterslide and swimming hole on the Makaretu Stream in the Wairoa district of northern Hawke’s Bay, about two hours’ drive north of Hastings. The smooth rock gives a short, fast slide into a pool, and it is a favourite with local families on hot summer days.
Hawke’s Bay Tourism and the Wairoa i-SITE both list it. There are no facilities and no entry fee, so it suits a summer day trip from Hastings combined with Wairoa or Lake Waikaremoana.
Not the Rere Rockslide. This is a different place from the much larger Rere Rockslide near Gisborne, which Google often shows for rockslide searches. If that is the one you are after, see our Rere Falls and Rere Rockslide guide.
Practical Information
- Location
- Hereheretau Road, on the Makaretu Stream, Wairoa District, Hawke’s Bay
- From Hastings
- About two hours’ drive north, via Wairoa and Frasertown
- Access
- Rural road via SH38 and Mangapoike Road; roadside parking
- Facilities
- None on site
- Entry Fee
- Free
- Best Time
- Hot summer days; weekdays or early mornings for fewer people
- Activities
- Rock sliding with boards, swimming
- Guided Tours
- None available
About the Rockslide on Hereheretau Road
The Rockslide on Hereheretau Road is a natural formation created by water flow along the Makaretu Stream. The smooth rock surface creates a short but fast slide that ends in a pond-like swimming hole, providing a simple yet exciting water activity in a rural Hawke’s Bay setting.
This spot is especially popular with locals during warm weather. Families appreciate the combination of adventure and relaxation, with opportunities to slide repeatedly or simply swim and cool off in the stream.
The surrounding area features typical rural landscapes of the Wairoa district, with greenery and open countryside. The location forms part of scenic drives that highlight the region’s natural features and quiet roads.
No commercial facilities or services exist at the site, so visitors must be self-sufficient. The attraction remains free and open to the public, with access managed through standard rural road use.
Access and Directions
From Wairoa, travel towards Lake Waikaremoana on SH38. After crossing the bridge into Frasertown, turn right onto Mangapoike Road and follow it for approximately 17 km. Turn right onto Hereheretau Road and continue for about 4.5 km. Watch for the pond-like swimming hole and rock slide on the left side of the road.
Park beside the road and follow the short path down to the Makaretu Stream. The route is suitable for standard vehicles, though care is needed on the unsealed rural sections, particularly after rain.
Hereheretau Road continues further as a scenic drive, eventually reaching SH2 near Whakakī, offering additional rural views for those extending their trip.
Activities at the Rockslide
The main activity is sliding down the natural rock formation using boogie boards or similar inflatables. The slide delivers a fast descent into the swimming hole below, suitable for repeated use on warm days.
Swimming in the pool provides a refreshing break after sliding. The site suits families and groups seeking a low-key water-based outing in a natural environment.
Picnicking is possible in the surrounding area, though visitors must bring all supplies as no tables, toilets or rubbish facilities are provided.
Safety Considerations
Water levels and rock conditions can change with rainfall. Heavy rain may increase flow or make surfaces slippery, so check local weather and road updates before travel.
Rockslides cause injuries. Before anyone slides, check the depth of the pool and look for submerged rocks or branches, go down feet first or on a board, and never slide when the stream is running high or brown after rain.
Supervise children closely around the slide and pool. Uneven terrain and variable water depths require caution, and life jackets are recommended for weaker swimmers.
The rural road has experienced occasional maintenance issues in the past. Drive carefully and remain alert for other vehicles or wildlife.
Best Time to Visit
Summer provides the most reliable conditions for sliding and swimming, with warmer water and drier roads. Weekdays and early mornings typically offer a quieter experience with fewer visitors.
Shoulder seasons can work if weather is settled, but avoid periods of heavy rain that affect both the road and the stream.
Where to Learn More
Wairoa i-SITE: Official directions, description and practical details for the rock slide.
Wairoa i-SITE Hereheretau Road page: Information on the scenic drive that includes the rock slide.
Hawke’s Bay Tourism: Location details and visitor information for the rockslide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the Rere Rockslide?
No. The Hereheretau Road Rockslide is on the Makaretu Stream in the Wairoa district. The Rere Rockslide is a different, larger slide near Gisborne.
How far is it from Hastings?
About two hours’ drive north. From Wairoa, take SH38 to Frasertown, then Mangapoike Road for about 17 km and Hereheretau Road for about 4.5 km.
Are there toilets or other facilities at the rockslide?
No facilities such as toilets, picnic tables or rubbish bins are available on site. Visitors must bring all supplies and take everything away with them.
Is the rockslide suitable for children?
Yes, it is popular with families, but close adult supervision is essential due to the natural terrain, variable water depths and slippery surfaces.
Do I need to pay an entry fee?
There is no entry fee. Access is free for all visitors.
Can I bring a dog?
Pet policies are not specified on official pages. Check with Wairoa District Council or local sources for current rules before bringing animals.
Are guided tours available?
No guided tours operate at the site. Visitors explore independently.
What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, towels, boogie boards or inflatables, sun protection, water, snacks and a first aid kit. Life jackets are recommended for less confident swimmers.
What happens if it rains?
Heavy rain can raise water levels and make rocks slippery. Check forecasts and road conditions, and consider postponing the visit if conditions are poor.
Is the road suitable for all vehicles?
Standard cars can access the site, but the rural road may be uneven. Larger vehicles or those with low clearance should proceed with extra caution.
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