Skip to main content

Tutea Falls

Tutea Falls is a seven-metre waterfall on the Kaituna River near Okere Falls, just outside Rotorua on New Zealand's North Island.

It holds the distinction of being the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, and serves as the dramatic centrepiece of a stretch of river that also includes Okere Falls and Trout Pool Falls.

The falls are named after a Māori rangatira whose remains are said to be interred in a cave behind the cascade. The falls are accessible on foot via the Okere Falls Track, reached from a car park on Trout Pool Road.

Roughly halfway along the track, signposted steps descend a steep cliffside — carved into the rock and secured with fencing — leading to a small viewing platform, a modest cave entrance, and views of the falls and the pool below.

The site has drawn visitors since the 1800s for both its scenic beauty and its cultural significance to the Ngāti Pikiao people, who regard the Kaituna River as a taonga, or treasure.


More ways to access Kaituna River

Explore the wonders of Kaituna River! Find excellent fishing spots, easy access to boat ramps, and all the amenities you need for a memorable day by the water. Your adventure starts here.

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

Check the forecast at Tutea Falls before you go fishing.

No forecast data available.

Bay Of Plenty licenses and regulations

Explore Bay Of Plenty waters

Top fishing waters

No waters available right now.

Popular Cities

Loading popular cities...

Smarter Fishing Starts in the App.

onWater Fish gives you everything you need to plan smarter, fish better, and own every trip from first cast to last.