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Key facts
- Distance
- 2.3 km return via same track
- Walking time
- 1 hr 10 m
- Track grade
- Advanced
- Location
- Orokawa Scenic Reserve
- Dog access
- No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Checked against official sources on 8 October 2026. Rules and conditions are set by Department of Conservation — confirm with them before you go.
Route overview
This track takes you inland from Orokawa Bay to a waterfall.
This DOC directory entry covers William Wright Falls Track in Bay of Plenty, within Orokawa Scenic Reserve. Where DOC groups several walks, times and grades refer to the listed options rather than a single continuous itinerary.
Distance, time and grade
- Distance: 2.3 km return via same track
- Walking time: 1 hr 10 m
- DOC grade: Advanced
Access and alerts
Source checked 2026-10-08. This page is a dated snapshot, not a live track-status report. Check current DOC route information immediately before travelling. An absence of listed alerts does not establish that a route is open.
Homunga Bay Track partially closed; First published on 24 January 2026. Last reviewed on 25 June 2026.
William Wright Falls Track closed; First published on 31 January 2026. Last reviewed on 5 March 2026.
Dog access
No dogs. Other pets on conservation land rules.
Description
The William Wright Falls are located 40 minutes inland from the northern end of Orokawa Bay.
The track has multiple stream crossings and should not be attempted in heavy rain.
Getting there
Orokawa Bay is located north of Waihi Beach, off State Highway 2 at the end of Waihi Beach road. The track starts at the northern end of Waihi Beach.
Know before you go
The track is tramping grade with multiple stream crossings and should not be attempted in heavy rain.
Stay safe when crossing rivers and streams
If you plan to cross unbridged rivers or side streams, know how to cross safely and be prepared for if you cannot cross.
Do not cross if the river or stream is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.
How to cross rivers safely
NIWA river flow forecasts: View a video of national followed by regional river flows
Sources and reuse
Route descriptions and practical information reproduced from the Department of Conservation, Crown copyright, under CC BY 4.0, subject to DOC's copyright policy. Formatting has been adapted, including flattening page sections; follow the original DOC page for maps, section-specific layout, current notices and linked documents. Outdoor Next is independent and is not endorsed by DOC.
The accompanying photograph is a licensed general hiking illustration, not a photograph of this route.
