Owharoa Falls is located about a 2-hour drive from Auckland or roughly 1 hour from Tauranga, with sealed roads the entire way.

If you're coming from Karangahake Gorge, head east on State Highway 2 (SH2) and continue for approximately 5 km. When you see the sign for ‘Owharoa Falls,’ turn right onto Waitawheta Road and cross the one-lane bridge. The car park is located just a few metres beyond the bridge on the right-hand side. Please note that there are no facilities (such as toilets) at this site.

From the car park, follow the Owharoa Falls Walk to reach the base of the waterfall. This short walk takes about 5 minutes each way and is very easy, although it includes some stairs, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs and strollers. However, if you're using a wheelchair, you can still enjoy a partial view of the falls directly from the car park.

There are two additional waterfalls further along the Taieri Stream. The second fall is not easily accessible—only the top is visible from the road. The third waterfall, however, is easily reached and can also be seen from the road. To visit it, continue driving a few more minutes along the stream, cross the bridge, and you’ll find another car park nearby. The falls can be viewed from the bridge itself.

Mountain biking option: The Hauraki Rail Trail (Grade 1–2, approximately 2 days) runs from Thames to Te Aroha. A shorter section runs between Paeroa and Waihi (25 km), or you can opt for a brief ride from Karangahake Gorge to Owharoa Falls—an easy and scenic option.

Read more about Karangahake Gorge here.