Shine Falls
![]() |
Shine FallsShine Falls, the most spectacular waterfall in Hawke’s Bay, drops an impressive 58 metres along Boundary Stream. The walk to the falls passes through diverse lowland forest featuring native trees such as kanuka, kawakawa, kowhai, and titoki, offering visitors a rich natural experience along the way. This scenic trail provides both beautiful flora and the rewarding sight of the majestic waterfall at its end.
|
|||||||||||||||
![]() Rating:       ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Walking and driving instructions
The track through to Shine Falls is closed due to extensive damage caused by Cyclone Gabrielle. Shine Falls is located approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Napier, with the last 6.5 km of the road being gravel. From Napier, head east on SH-2 and continue for about 43.5 km until you see the sign ‘Shine Falls.’ Turn left onto Matahorua Road, then after 11 km, turn left onto Heays Access Road. Follow this road for 6.5 km until you reach the Department of Conservation (DOC) car park on your left, which features a picnic table, a shelter, and a toilet. The Shine Falls walking track is a 1.5-hour return journey that leads to the base of the waterfall. The trail passes through farmland and beneath towering sandstone cliffs. Although there are some uphill sections and stream crossings along the way, all crossings are bridged and easy to navigate. A picnic table near the waterfall provides a perfect spot to rest and take in the stunning 58-metre falls. You can either return along the same track or continue on the trail for another 45 to 60 minutes until you reach a car park on Pohiokura Road. If you choose to continue, please arrange for transportation to pick you up at the end of the track. |
Waterfalls nearby
Te Ana Falls![]() Rating:       ⭐⭐⭐ | Tangoio Falls![]() Rating:       ⭐⭐ |
 
Photo Gallery
|