Last Updated on: 16 May 2025

William Wright Falls Track Guide 2025: Insider Tips, Maps & Planning

Step Off the Sand and Into the Bush

I first heard about William Wright Falls from a local at the Waihi Beach bakery—over a sausage roll and an unsolicited tip-off that went something like, “Don’t miss the waterfall at the end of Orokawa Bay. Bit muddy, bit hidden, but worth it.” Never one to ignore a whispered local gem, I gave it a go—and I’m glad I did.

William Wright Falls Track is a blend of scenic beauty, coastal charm, and a dash of mild adventure. The walk begins along a popular bush track from Waihi Beach to Orokawa Bay—easy enough for families or casual walkers—before tucking into a lesser-known side trail that leads inland to a modest, shady waterfall nestled in a gully so green it almost glows.

No signage at the beach, no fancy viewing platform—just a quiet slice of native New Zealand, best enjoyed with muddy shoes and a sense of curiosity.

Why walk the William Wright Falls Track?

This is the kind of walk I always recommend when friends say, “We’ve only got a few hours, but want something amazing.” It delivers a beach stroll, native forest, a secret waterfall, and birdlife galore—all in under two hours return.

Sandra, our in-house walk specialist here at Freewalks, puts it best:

“It’s the kind of track that makes kids feel like explorers and grownups feel like they’ve found a slice of old New Zealand. Unpretentious, wild, and utterly magical.”

The detour to the falls is unmarked and a bit rough, which only adds to its appeal. It’s not for the pristine footpath seekers—but if you love a little mud and mystery, you’re in the right place.

🥾 Walk Overview

Location: Orokawa Scenic Reserve, Waihi Beach
Nearest town: Waihi Beach
Distance: 2.6 km return to the falls (from Waihi Beach)
Time required: 1.5–2 hours return
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate (short but uneven and unmarked in places)
Track type: Out-and-back
Dog-friendly: ❌ No – dogs not allowed (protected reserve)
Kid-friendly: ✅ Yes, for adventurous kids
Wheelchair accessible: ❌ No
Toilets nearby: ✅ Yes – at Waihi Beach car park
Best time to go: Summer or autumn; early morning or late afternoon for best light
Are drones allowed: ❌ No – within scenic reserve restrictions
Are bikes allowed: ❌ No

Map location

🚗 Getting There

  • Car park location: Waihi Beach car park at the northern end of The Esplanade, near the Surf Club.
  • Parking availability: Free, room for 50+ cars, but gets full in summer. No shade—prepare for hot boots.
  • Public transport options: Limited. Best reached by private car. Closest public transport is to Waihi town.
  • Google Maps link: Waihi Beach car park
  • Entry fees / permits required: None – free public access.
  • Signage to the start of the walk: Well-signed at the beach end; however, the turn-off to the waterfall is not marked.

🥾 Track Details

  • Track surface: Grassy and sandy near the coast, then forest track. Final detour to the falls is rough and can be muddy.
  • Track condition: Generally well-worn but narrow. The waterfall detour is a rooty, streamside scramble.
  • Elevation gain / steep sections: Minimal – some small climbs, nothing sustained.
  • Estimated pace or fitness level required: Basic to moderate fitness. Children and confident walkers will be fine.

🌿 What You'll See

  • William Wright Falls – a gentle cascade tucked in a shady, lush gully
  • Towering pōhutukawa lining the coastal ridge
  • Native bush alive with tūī, pīwakawaka (fantails), and kererū
  • Orokawa Bay – white sand, turquoise sea, and excellent picnic potential
  • Mossy stream crossings and green, fern-filled gulleys

🥾 Walk Directions

  1. Start at the northern end of Waihi Beach, just past the Surf Club, where the Orokawa Scenic Reserve coastal track begins. It’s an easy, undulating bush walk following the coastline with sea views through ancient pōhutukawa limbs.
  2. After about 30–40 minutes, you’ll arrive at Orokawa Bay—a postcard-perfect spot and a great place for a break or swim. 
  3. At the far northern end of the beach, follow the sand until you reach the creek crossing. Look up to your left—there’s a sign pointing inland to the track, which runs alongside the creek into the bush.
  4. Follow the path gently upstream for around 5 minutes, and you’ll see a signpost to William Wright Falls. Turn left here—although, full disclosure, there used to be a long drop at this junction… and the less said about that, the better.
  5. This next section of the track climbs through a narrow, shady gully. It’s lush, damp, and often slippery—especially after rain. The track is lined with ferns and mosses, thriving in a spot that gets only a few hours of sun a day. It’s gorgeously green, but be warned: it’s also a mud magnet.
  6. The waterfall itself isn’t massive or dramatic—but it has a quiet charm. A gentle cascade trickling into a shallow pool, surrounded by bush and birdcall. Don’t expect fireworks—this is a humble, hidden gem, perfect for quiet contemplation.
  7. Feeling bold? There’s a rough, steep climb beside the falls that leads to a small icy pool above. If you’re thinking of giving it a go—bring grippy shoes and good luck. I only made it three steps before admitting defeat and slithering back with my dignity slightly dampened.
  8. Retrace your steps the same way back to Waihi Beach—maybe with a detour dip at Orokawa Bay to rinse the mud off.

🧽 Navigation & Safety

  • Phone reception: Patchy – decent near the beach, poor deeper in bush.
  • Map needed? Not essential if you’re confident, but GPS app like TopoMaps NZ helps.
  • Common wrong turns? Yes – the waterfall turnoff is easy to miss. 
  • Weather considerations: Slippery after rain. Avoid heavy downpours – the stream can rise quickly.

🧲 What to Bring

  • Recommended footwear: Trail shoes or hiking sandals with grip
  • Water needed: At least 1L per person
  • Snacks or lunch: Yes – no food options nearby
  • Sun and weather protection: Hat, sunscreen, and raincoat in shoulder seasons
  • Insect repellent? Yes – mozzies and sandflies love it here
  • Optional extras: Camera, togs for Orokawa Bay, small towel

🍽 Nearby Facilities

  • Closest café or food option: Flatwhite Café – excellent coffee and ocean views right on the beach, just 5 mins drive from the track start.
  • Picnic tables or sheltered spots: None on track – best to picnic on Orokawa Bay or near Waihi Beach.
  • Playgrounds or family-friendly extras nearby: Yes – Waihi Beach has playgrounds, BBQs, and shaded grass areas.
  • Accommodation nearby: Loads of options in Waihi Beach – campgrounds, motels, and holiday homes.

📍 Useful Links

👤 My Experience on This Walk

  • Date of walk: February 2025
  • Weather and track conditions: Sunny, dry track
  • What I personally loved: The utter peace at the waterfall, hearing only water and birds
  • Any unexpected moments: Nearly walked right past the falls turnoff!
  • Tips I’d give based on doing it myself: Mark the waterfall on your GPS app before heading out

🙋 FAQ's

Is there a bridge to cross the stream to the waterfall?

No – it's a natural crossing. Take care after rain.

Can you swim at William Wright Falls?

Technically yes, but it's shallow. Orokawa Bay is better for a swim.

Is this walk suitable in winter?

Yes, but track may be slippery – wear good shoes and check weather.

Photos of my walk

See more of my walks in Katikati