WalkHidden gem
Wilkies Pools
Dawson Falls, Taranaki
Lava-formed pools in the Kapuni Stream, a 20-minute walk from Dawson Falls Visitor Centre.
- Cost
- Free
- Booking
- No need to book
- Time to allow
- 2 hours
A short track through mossy goblin forest leads to a series of small pools carved into old lava flows. The first 900 m is buggy-friendly. The pools are of cultural and spiritual significance to Māori, so look rather than swim. Continuing the loop means rock-hopping the Kapuni Stream, which has no bridge.
Good to know
- Look, but stay out of the water out of respect for local Māori
- The Kapuni Stream crossing can be impassable after heavy rain
- The first 900 m is suitable for buggies and wheelchairs
- Best time
- Summer, dry day
- Open
- Summer best
- Getting there
- Walk from Dawson Falls Visitor Centre at the end of Manaia Road
- Vehicles
- Fine in any car
- Dogs
- No dogs
Facilities
- Toilets
The location is approximate. Check the official website before you go.
Data: Roadtrip. Things change: check opening times, prices and rules before you go.
Know what the drive costs
Roadtrip works out the fuel or charging cost of any drive for your exact car, finds the cheapest stations on the way, and plans the stops.
Rated 4.7 by drivers · 700,000 downloads
