Discover Omanawa

Ōmanawa Falls, the history of hydroelectric power, extensive park trails and wildlife attractions give Omanawa a range of distinct themes. To plan your visit, it is worth considering cultural significance, trail conditions and nature interests separately. This can help you weigh which aspects are most relevant to your travel plans.

Cultural history at Ōmanawa Falls

Ōmanawa Falls has been a sacred place for Ngāti Hangarau for generations. Completed in 1915, Omanawa Falls Power Station was New Zealand’s first underground hydroelectric power station. This gives Omanawa two distinct points of interest: the cultural significance of the falls to Ngāti Hangarau and the engineering history of the power station. The year marks its completion; its status as New Zealand’s first underground hydroelectric power station makes it a notable chapter in the history of engineering.

Trails, parkland and physical demands

The trail section between Wairere Tapu Lookout and Te Harikoa Lookout at Ōmanawa Falls includes several hundred steps. A moderate to high level of fitness is required. Keep this specific requirement in mind if you plan to include the section in your trip.

McLaren Falls is a 190-hectare lake park with extensive trails and one of the best arboretums on the North Island. Here, the park’s size, trails and tree collection take centre stage; the section between the lookouts is defined by its steps and required fitness level. These distinct features help you avoid treating nature experiences as all the same.

Animals and family-oriented attractions

Marshalls Animal Park is a 35-acre attraction featuring animals and family-oriented activities. Its size and focus give a clear sense of how it differs from a trail or a lake park. If animals and family activities are part of your travel plans, this is a distinct theme within the Omanawa selection.

More experiences in the Western Bay of Plenty District

In the wider destination of the Western Bay of Plenty District, the walking route in Katikati Town Centre focuses on public art and haiku. It leads from Haiku Park along paths featuring verses carved into rocks and paving. Following Uretara Stream, the route crosses a footbridge to Uretara Landing, then continues along the main road to murals and other artworks in the town centre. Individual installations may change. The route brings together different forms of public art on a town-centre walk.

The Orokawa Bay Walk offers a different landscape experience: it begins at the northern end of Waihī Beach and follows coastal headlands to Orokawa Bay. The walk takes about 45 minutes each way. The trail passes through dense bush with pōhutukawa, kauri and puriri trees, as well as native nikau palms. Orokawa Bay is part of a 145-hectare scenic reserve. Tides and swell affect access; check conditions before your visit. The stated walking time and access conditions are practical considerations that differ from the art and town-centre features of the Katikati walk.

On the Katikati Cuisine Trail, you can meet local artisan food producers and sample their products at the source. This adds a culinary focus to the art and nature themes of the Western Bay of Plenty District. Individual producers and offerings may change.

Discover more destinations: Tauranga, Omokoroa, Mount Maunganui, Ohauiti

View the wider travel guide: Tauranga District.