Stone Store to Rainbow Falls Walk Kerikeri, Northland, New Zealand
- Julie James
- Mar 29
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 10
A walk is only a step away from a story, and every path tells.” – Robert MacFarlane
As I discover the highlighted trails of Northland, New Zealand I keep returning to a local favourite, the Stone Store to Rainbow Falls walk, a peaceful, picturesque and historically rich trail. I have walked the trail on my own and with visiting family and friends and never tire of it.
This beautiful out and back trail stretching for around four kilometres each way, connects the historic Stone Store in Kerikeri to the beautiful cascading Rainbow Falls, a single-drop waterfall, located on the Kerikieri River, and offers a perfect blend of nature, lush native bush, history and stunning scenery.
Rainbow Falls, is located near the fabulous town of Kerikeri and the trail begins at the iconic Stone Store, the oldest stone building in New Zealand, dating back to 1832. The Stone Store was originally a trading post and has since become a popular tourist attraction. Situated by the tranquil waters of the Kerikeri River, this historic landmark is a perfect place to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s colonial past before setting off on the trail. The surrounding gardens and mission house add to the charm, offering a picturesque start to your walk.
Some useful information........
Distance: 4km one way
Difficulty: A well maintained relatively easy walk for all abilities. The trail meanders along the river with n easy walk for all abilities, with just some undulations until you reach the falls.
Type of trail: An out and back trail along the Kerikeri river with the chance of a swim near the waterfall.
Refreshments: Have a coffee or lunch at the fabulous Honey House Cafe
My walk.....
I parked in the car park and followed the clear sign which directed me across the grassland onto the track. Before you start the walk make sure you stop to look across the river for a picture-perfect view of the Stone Store and its surrounding landscape, beautifully maintained lawns and areas bursting with vibrant flora and fruit trees. I like to save the trip across the bridge to the Stone Store and Honey House Cafe for the end of this walk, a wonderful reward for completing the trail.
Once on the path the well-maintained Kerikeri River Track guides you over charming wooden bridges, meandering boardwalks, and natural paths through lush native bush, where towering tree ferns and ancient Puriri trees create a serene, shady canopy overhead. The gentle sounds of native birds such as Tūī and Fantails are ever present as you meander along the riverbank and add a special New Zealand soundtrack to your journey.
As you continue, the river walk reveals hidden gems, including the Historic Power House. Follow the sign, as it leads you to view the remnants of Kerikeri hydro station, the first power generation in Kerikeri. The surviving machinery of the powerhouse has been restored and placed in its original installations.
About halfway through the walk, you will discover Wharepuke Falls, a lovely cascade that tumbles over volcanic rocks into a serene swimming hole. This is a fantastic spot to take a break, enjoy a snack, or even go for a refreshing dip if the weather is warm. The surrounding ferns and moss-covered rocks give the area an enchanting, a magical feel.
The other-wordly, magical feel continues as you meander along the trail. Dense green bush, flank either side of the path, dappled by sunlight and the sound of the babbling river running alongside to your left, accompanies you on your journey.
The distant roar of of water signals the approach to Rainbow Falls. Standing at 27 meters high, this majestic waterfall is a breathtaking sight and comes into view across the lush greenery, as the river widens. The water plunges into a deep pool below, often creating a misty spray that, when caught by the sunlight, forms the namesake rainbow.
Once you tear yourself away from this breathtaking view of the fall, continue upwards along the path, surrounded by dramatic rock formations to reach the top of the waterfall and the viewing platforms.
These platforms offer fantastic vantage points for capturing the beauty of the falls at different angles and a spectacular view of the river. If you want to reach closer to the falls, a short path leads down to the base, a perfect spot to take in the awe-inspiring wonder of nature’s power and beauty.
There is a beautiful swimming spot just below the waterfall where it is impossible not to feel at one with nature, surrounded by dramatic rock formations, native bush, big sky and the cascade of the rushing water.
The return walk along the now familiar path is worth taking slowly to enjoy the sights and sounds and commit to memory the beauty of the walk.
A few thoughts....
This walk is so much more than an 8km out and back walk. Returning to the Stone Store at the end of the walk is a real treat.
Make time to explore the beautiful gardens and orchard surrounds, abundant with fabulous roses, old-fashioned plants, varieties of rare fruit trees and heritage vegetables. Displays of vibrant wildflowers fill sections of the garden and the lush green lawns lead down to the river, a perfect picnic spot.
Take time to visit the Kerikeri Mission Station, home to the Stone Store and Kemp House, is one of New Zealand's most significant historical sites.
The Stone Store, built in 1832, is the oldest stone building in New Zealand, while Kemp House, constructed in 1821, is the oldest surviving European building. These structures provide a fascinating glimpse into the early interactions between Māori and European settlers, offering guided tours that delve into the rich history of the area. The store itself is still trading and is bursting with quirky items with a touch of history.
Writing up this walk, reminds me of what a beautiful day out this is. The walk is full of native New Zealand nature at it’s wild and wonderful best complimented by a little oasis of charm and character, that is the Kerikeri Mission Station.
Walked numerous times 2024/2025 🥾
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