Last updated July 2026
Discover a favourite local spot at the Rockslide on Hereheretau Road, a natural waterslide and swimming hole along the Makaretu Stream in New Zealand’s Wairoa district. This short but fast rock slide offers an exhilarating ride into a refreshing pool, making it a popular choice for families and adventure seekers on hot summer days in Hawke’s Bay. The site sits in a rural setting with easy roadside access and no entry fees. Visitors bring their own boogie boards or inflatables to enjoy the slide and cool off in the water. Always check conditions before heading out, as the rural road and natural features require preparation.
Practical Information
| Location | Hereheretau Road, Wairoa District, Hawke’s Bay |
| 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.
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.
What Visitors Often Say
Locals and families praise the short, fast slide as a fun, free way to cool off on hot days, noting it is especially enjoyable with boogie boards and suitable for all ages when conditions are good.
Visitors appreciate the rural setting and easy access but emphasise the need to bring everything required and to check weather and road conditions beforehand for a safe visit.
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
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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