Seven Waterfalls In or Near Wellington: An Overview
1. Percy Waterfall
Location: Percy Scenic Reserve, Lower Hutt
Overview: Percy Waterfall is the tallest waterfall in the Wellington area and a beloved feature of Percy Scenic Reserve. Located just outside the city in Lower Hutt, this waterfall is surrounded by diverse native bush and well-maintained paths. Visitors enjoy the blend of serene natural beauty and the convenience of an easily accessible location, making it ideal for families and casual hikers.
Highlights:
- Height and Structure: Percy Waterfall drops approximately 20 meters, creating a striking horsetail cascade that flows down smooth rock, adding a photogenic touch to the reserve.
- Native Flora and Fauna: Percy Scenic Reserve is home to various native New Zealand plant species, including ferns, kawakawa, and nikau palms. Birdsong from tui and fantails creates an idyllic atmosphere around the waterfall.
- Short Walking Trail: The waterfall is located a short walk from the reserve entrance. An accessible track leads you through the bush and ends at a viewing platform, providing a safe yet immersive nature experience.
Visitor Tips:
- Parking and Access: Parking is available at the entrance to Percy Scenic Reserve on Dowse Drive, making it a straightforward spot to reach.
- Amenities: The reserve offers picnic tables, shaded spots, and restrooms, allowing visitors to enjoy a full-day outing.
- Best Time to Visit: Visit after a period of rainfall when the waterfall is at its most powerful. The track is well-maintained and generally safe, even in slightly wet conditions.
2. Wellington Botanic Garden Waterfall
Location: Wellington Botanic Garden, Kelburn
Overview: Nestled within the Wellington Botanic Garden, this man-made waterfall adds a tranquil water feature to the park’s diverse landscapes. The waterfall, though modest in size, is a peaceful stop for garden-goers and enhances the garden’s atmosphere, especially during Wellington’s sunny months.
Highlights:
- Design and Flow: The waterfall is an approximate 5-meter horsetail cascade, gracefully integrated into the surrounding garden landscape. It complements the lush, tropical plants surrounding it, creating an oasis within the garden.
- Garden Attractions Nearby: The Botanic Garden offers a wide variety of sections to explore, including the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, the Begonia House, and various native bush tracks, providing a full day of free exploration for visitors.
- Accessibility: The waterfall is easily accessible via the garden’s paths, making it an ideal stop for all ages and mobility levels.
Visitor Tips:
- Parking Options: There are parking options near the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, which provides easy access to the waterfall and other garden attractions.
- Facilities: The Botanic Garden has on-site cafés, restrooms, and information centres, making it convenient for visitors to take breaks and learn more about the garden’s botanical collections.
- Best Time to Visit: The garden is especially vibrant in spring and summer when flowers are in full bloom. This is also when the waterfall area is most lush.
3. Korokoro Dam Waterfall
Location: Belmont Regional Park, Lower Hutt
Overview: Korokoro Dam Waterfall, located within Belmont Regional Park, is a unique blend of history and nature. The waterfall flows over the structure of the old Korokoro Dam, which was built in the early 1900s, making this a historical as well as scenic destination.
Highlights:
- Historical Significance: The Korokoro Dam was one of the earliest water supply systems for Lower Hutt, and remnants of this history can still be seen around the dam. The waterfall cascades over the dam itself, adding a sense of timelessness to the scene.
- Trail Description: The Korokoro Dam Loop is a moderate 2.6-kilometer walk through lush, native bush. The path is well-shaded and follows the Korokoro Stream, eventually leading to the dam and waterfall. The trail features small stream crossings and dense forest, offering an immersive bushwalk experience.
- Wildlife and Scenery: The surrounding bush is rich with native plants and wildlife, including kereru (wood pigeon) and occasional sightings of piwakawaka (fantails) flitting through the trees.
Visitor Tips:
- Parking and Entry: Park at the Cornish Street entrance to Belmont Regional Park to access the Korokoro Dam Loop.
- Preparation and Supplies: There are no facilities along the trail, so bring water and snacks. Wear sturdy footwear as parts of the trail can be muddy.
- Best Time to Visit: Visit year-round, though the waterfall is particularly impressive after rainfall, when the flow over the dam is more powerful.
4. Dry Creek Waterfall
Location: Belmont Regional Park, Lower Hutt
Overview: Dry Creek Waterfall is another hidden treasure within Belmont Regional Park, tucked away along a secluded track. This small but picturesque waterfall requires a bit of adventure to reach, as the trail includes stream crossings and rugged terrain.
Highlights:
- Trail Experience: The path to Dry Creek Waterfall is relatively short but moderately challenging, involving stream crossings and some bushwalking through uneven terrain. It’s an adventurous hike perfect for those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path experiences.
- Scenic Cascade: The 4-meter waterfall cascades gently over rocks into a small pool, surrounded by thick, lush bush, creating a tranquil retreat.
- Wild Setting: With few visitors, Dry Creek Waterfall offers a secluded atmosphere, ideal for nature lovers and photographers looking for a quiet, natural setting.
Visitor Tips:
- Parking and Access: Start at the Dry Creek entrance off State Highway 2. Parking is available here, but the trail is less marked than other paths, so come prepared.
- Trail Conditions: Due to stream crossings, wear waterproof or sturdy hiking shoes, and be prepared for slippery rocks, especially after rain.
- Best Time to Visit: Visit after light rainfall to enhance the waterfall’s flow, but be cautious of wet, slippery paths.
5. Seton Nossiter Park Waterfall
Location: Grenada Village, Wellington
Overview: Seton Nossiter Park, a suburban reserve in Wellington’s northern suburbs, is home to a small but charming waterfall along the Porirua Stream. The park’s convenient location and family-friendly amenities make it a favourite for local families seeking a nature outing.
Highlights:
- Easy Walk and Accessibility: The park features a short, easy-walking track that leads to the waterfall, making it suitable for children and casual walkers.
- Family-Friendly Facilities: The park includes a playground, picnic tables, and open grassy areas, providing options for various recreational activities.
- Flora and Wildlife: The area surrounding the waterfall has regenerating native bush, making it an enjoyable spot to observe local plant life and listen to native birds.
Visitor Tips:
- Parking and Access: Parking is available at the main entrance on Mark Avenue, providing easy access to the park’s amenities and trails.
- Ideal for Picnics: Bring a picnic, as there are tables and shaded areas perfect for a relaxing family day.
- Best Time to Visit: The waterfall flow varies depending on recent rainfall, so visiting after rain enhances the experience.
6. Otaru Wilton’s Bush Waterfall
Location: Otari-Wilton’s Bush, Wellington
Overview: Otari-Wilton’s Bush is a botanical treasure dedicated entirely to native New Zealand plants. Tucked within its native bush is a small, peaceful waterfall that offers a serene escape and complements the area’s rich botanical diversity.
Highlights:
- Circular Walk and Waterfall: The Circular Walk is a well-maintained track that passes by the waterfall. This section of the path is surrounded by towering trees and lush undergrowth, providing an immersive nature experience.
- Native Flora: Otari-Wilton’s Bush boasts over 1,200 native plant species, making it a fantastic destination for botany enthusiasts or anyone interested in New Zealand’s natural heritage.
- Educational Insights: Interpretive signage along the trails provides information about native plants and their ecological importance.
Visitor Tips:
- Parking and Amenities: Park at the main entrance on Wilton Road. The reserve has an information centre, restrooms, and picnic areas.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer offer the most vibrant plant life, though the waterfall is a year-round feature.
7. Birchville Dam Waterfall
Location: Birchville, Upper Hutt
Overview: Located within the Cannon Point Walkway, Birchville Dam Waterfall is a beautiful destination set within native bush. The waterfall flows over an old dam wall, creating an enchanting, tiered cascade that’s particularly captivating after rainfall.
Highlights:
- Cannon Point Walkway: The trail leading to Birchville Dam is a moderate hike that weaves through native bush and provides scenic views of the Hutt Valley. It’s a peaceful route with few visitors, offering a sense of seclusion.
- Historical Charm: The old dam adds a historical element, blending nature and history in a unique setting.
- Peaceful Cascade: The waterfall flows down a series of rock formations, making for a photogenic spot in the quiet of the forest.
Visitor Tips:
- Parking and Access: Park near the Birchville area and access the Cannon Point Walkway. The walk to the dam and waterfall is about 1-2 hours round trip.
- Trail Conditions: The trail is well-marked but may be muddy after rain, so wear appropriate footwear.
- Best Time to Visit: After rainfall, as the water flow over the dam is more impressive and the surrounding bush is vibrant.
Conclusion
Wellington’s waterfalls offer unique glimpses into the region’s natural beauty, each with its own character and charm. From easily accessible waterfalls like Percy Waterfall and the Wellington Botanic Garden to hidden gems like Dry Creek and Birchville Dam, these spots provide perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in Wellington’s stunning landscapes. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a photographer, or just someone looking for a peaceful retreat, Wellington’s waterfalls offer something for everyone. Pack your walking shoes, bring a camera, and set out to explore the tranquil beauty of these natural treasures.
