Kawerau District: Rivers, Trails and History

The Tarawera River, riverside trails and experiences connected with nature and local history shape the visitor experience in Kawerau District. The river runs right past Kawerau and through the town; walking trails follow its course, and there are also activities for paddlers. Other attractions include a swimming centre with several pools and a museum about the town’s history. If you’re looking for accommodation, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on: river trails, swimming, forest and park trails, or culture. Then check the specific locations of individual attractions against your plans.

River Trails and Nature around Kawerau

The Tarawera River Walk follows the river through reserves from Boyce Park to Waterhouse Street Bridge. The Tarawera River and Forest Walk has a different focus: it passes through native bush and forest, with views of the river. The landscapes along the two routes are easy to distinguish: the first is defined by the river and reserves, while the second features vegetation and river views.

The Stoneham Walk also winds through Kawerau’s gardens and parks and past the picturesque Stone Bridge. Grassy banks characterise the Ruruanga Stream Walk, providing picnic spots and attracting birds, including tūī. The Ruruanga Stream, which the trail follows, is regularly stocked with trout and is a popular swimming spot. Stocking and swimming conditions can change, so check locally before you go.

In the central Monika Lanham Reserve, there are several trails with walking times ranging from 30 minutes to an hour. This range makes it easy to fit walks of different lengths into your day. Check local trail conditions before setting out.

Near Kawerau is Putauaki, also known as Mount Edgecumbe. The dacite volcanic cone lies three kilometres east of Kawerau and reaches 820 metres above sea level. Access conditions can change; check locally before planning a visit.

Swimming, Whitewater and River

The Maurie Kjar Aquatic Centre has five pools, including a 25-metre main pool and a spa pool for 40 people. The free, family-friendly facility also has a paddling pool and an inflatable jumping pillow. The pool layout may change after upgrades; check the current configuration and operating conditions before your trip.

Kawerau’s purpose-built whitewater slalom course has been upgraded with a spectator path and an electronic timing system. Check local operating conditions before using it. The Tarawera River has Grade 2 and 3 rapids; a navigable section runs from about 10 km below Tarawera Falls to Kawerau. Check the local assessment of river grades before paddling. Kawerau is also the gateway to Tarawera Falls and the lake. If you’re planning an excursion, check local access conditions in advance.

Insights into Kawerau’s History

The Sir James Fletcher Kawerau Museum is located inside the Kawerau District Library in Jellicoe Court. It houses and displays a wide range of materials about Kawerau’s history. It’s best to check local opening arrangements before your visit.

The Wider Region: Bay Of Plenty

The wider destination of Bay Of Plenty features lakes and geothermal landscapes, as well as remnants of gold mining and timber production that may interest visitors. Tauranga offers another cultural facet of the region: The Elms’ wooden library and mission house are the oldest known surviving buildings in Bay Of Plenty. Their national significance lies in reflecting early contact between the Church Missionary Society and Māori in the region.

Discover more destinations: Tauranga District, Opotiki District, Rotorua District, Whakatane District, Western Bay Of Plenty District.

Back to the regional travel guide: Bay Of Plenty.