Kaiate Falls (Te Rerekawau) Verified listing

Kaiate Falls (also refered to by its Maori name “Te Rerekawau” or “Te Rere Kawau” as well as Te Rerekawau Falls) was actually a pair of impressive waterfalls.

The first main section consisted of a three-tiered series of falls.

The second section followed the first one up with an attractive plunge of a lower waterfall.

This waterfall was also formerly known as “Shag Falls”, but as tempting as it was to think of the Austin Powers interpretation of the word “shag”, this word actually referred to wildlife.

More specifically, it was the powerful black and white shag, which was a long-necked sea bird known for its strong, unswerving flight as it could dive from the sky to catch fish in the water.

Apparently, there used to be a shag colony located nearby the lower waterfall, which it was said that Maori warriors often identified with shags as guardian spirits.

Kaiate Falls Walk is a 0.8 kilometer moderately trafficked loop trail located near Papamoa, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and walking. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Authorities

Kaiate Falls resides near the city of Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty region of North Island, New Zealand. It is administered by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council. For information or inquiries about the area as well as current conditions, visit their website or their Facebook page.