Bali? Could be. Hawaii? Maybe. New Zealand… No way! Honestly, when we first saw Bridal Veil Falls it felt like we were transported to a remote tropical jungle in South America. Compared to its counterparts across the country like Taranaki or Huka Falls, the spectacle otherwise known as Waireinga Falls is completely different. Below we breakdown everything you need to know about Bridal Veil Falls, and why it’s one of the best waterfalls to visit in New Zealand!
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Getting to Bridal Veil Falls from Raglan
One thing that makes Bridal Veil Falls in New Zealand such an attractive destination is it’s only about a 20 minute drive from Raglan.
Raglan is a delightful and unique New Zealand town on the west coast of the North Island, and worth visiting in itself! It’s easy to make an early afternoon trip to the waterfall as it will only take an hour to see all the amazing viewpoints.
→ 8 Best Things to Do in Raglan New Zealand On Your First Visit
Visiting Bridal Veil Falls New Zealand
Standing at a staggering 180 feet (55 meters) high, this tremendous waterfall in New Zealand has formed a small pool below overtime. As with many other famous New Zealand attractions, Bridal Veil Falls was formed do to a nearby volcanic activity around 2 million years ago.
It’s part of the Waireinga Scenic Reserve and also goes by the native name Waireinga Falls. This is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Raglan area!
6 Easy Tips for Bridal Veil Falls
1. Avoid visiting during the peak hours from 11am to 3pm.
2. The only bathrooms are as you enter the falls directly after the carpark.
3. There is no water or food at Waireinga Falls. Make sure to bring whatever drinks and snacks you need with you.
4. What goes down must come back up! It’s important you are somewhat physically fit if you plan to see all 3 viewpoints at Bridal Veil Falls New Zealand. There is a good 10 minutes of steep stairs from the top to bottom.
5. Plan for at least one hour if you are going all the way to the base of the falls.
6. Unfortunately, there is no swimming allowed at one of the best waterfalls in New Zealand! You’re better off heading back to Raglan for an ocean dip afterwards.
Bridal Veil Falls Upper Viewpoint
The walk from the parking lot to the first viewpoint is a nice 10 minute stroll. We couldn’t believe our eyes when we got to the edge of the platform and looked down!
That’s because we were actually on the very top of Bridal Veil Falls. We’ve seen many waterfalls in this incredible country, but having the first glimpse of it from the peak is wild.
Midway Viewpoint
As you make your way down the long staircase take in the gorgeous flora around Waireinga Falls. After a few minutes you’ll come to an opening in the trees for a glorious view of Bridal Veil Falls.
Surprisingly, this was our favorite view of this waterfall in New Zealand! The scene through the leaves gives off jungle vibe and makes you appreciate the diverse nature.
Bridal Veil Falls Photo Tip: Have someone stand on the bench to get the perfect photo angle of you at the falls!
Lower Bridal Veil Falls Viewpoint
The last of the views is nothing short of spectacular, as you’ll get to take in Bridal Veil Falls from underneath. This is where you can truly experience its extraordinary height, and see why it’s one of the best waterfalls in New Zealand.
Also, the mist coming down from the waterfall was so refreshing before having to climb back up all those stairs! If you don’t mind the walk back up it’s definitely worth it to get this angle.
Have any questions about this article or want to share your own tips for Bridal Veil Falls New Zealand. Let us know in the comments below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
Where in the world are we? Follow our daily adventures on Instagram @nothingfamiliar!
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Where To Stay In Raglan New Zealand
Ultra Luxury – Blackwood Cabin – If you want ocean view near Raglan then this is the spot for you! Enjoy extra space in a comfortable Cabin.
Fun Vacation – Bow Street Studios – The Apartments – Bow Street Studios is located right in the center of Raglan close to all the action. Take your choice of motel style room, or studios with kitchen appliances.
Hostel Life – Raglan Backpackers – The perfect hostel to start your adventures in Raglan from! Features a hot tub, sauna, and it will be easy to find mates to take on the Raglan New Zealand surf with.
For more places to stay near Waireinga Falls in New Zealand you can explore the latest prices here!
___________________________New Zealand Travel Planning
Jucy Van: The best way to explore New Zealand is with a Jucy camper! We spent over six weeks driving around the North and South Islands in a van and loved every moment.
Rental Car: If you’re not renting a van you’ll need a car to see this country. We use Discover Cars when traveling and enjoy having the freedom to get around.
Flights: It’s easy to find cheap flight deals using Skyscanner and Kayak. That’s how we got flights from Auckland to Queenstown for $40 USD, and New Zealand to Fiji for less than $150!
Accommodation: Compare multiple sites to get the best deal such as Booking.com and Agoda. Also, Hostelworld should be your go to if you’re traveling on a budget.
Tours: Check out Get Your Guide to find activities all over New Zealand! They have everything from tickets to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves to a Hobbiton movie set tour, and even a Northland hole in the rock dolphin cruise!
Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without being covered. We’ve been using SafetyWing for insurance the last few years and they are always there when we need them.
Packing Lists: Find all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists. Including our electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials!
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North Island New Zealand
Travel Tips & Guides: 10 Helpful NZ Travel Tips – North Island Itinerary – South Island Itinerary – 25 Beautiful Beaches – Wellington to Picton Ferry – 15 Freedom Camping Tips – 27 Delicious Food & Drinks
Auckland & Northland: Piha Beach & Kitekite Falls – Cape Reinga Lighthouse – Russell – Mangonui – Mount Eden – Devonport Day Trip – Waiheke Island Guide – 9 Best Waiheke Wineries
Lake Taupo: 17 Fun Things to Do – Mount Tauhara Hike – Best Street Art – Taranaki Falls – Huka Falls Walk – 14 Tongariro Crossing Tips
New Plymouth: 10 Fun Things to Do – Dawson Falls – Te Rewa Rewa Bridge – Paritutu Rock Hike – Egmont National Park
Wellington: 10 Fun Things to Do – Mount Victoria Hike – Best Breweries – Cable Car & Botanical Gardens
Bay of Plenty: Tairua – Hot Water Beach – Cathedral Cove Walk – 8 Maunganui Things Not to Miss – Mount Maunganui Hike – East Cape Road Trip – How to Find Tua Tua Clams
Rotorua: Kerosene Creek – Redwoods Treewalk
→ Explore all our South Island New Zealand Travel Tips & Guides
