McLaren Falls Park spreads across roughly 190 hectares on the shores of Lake McLaren in the Kaimai foothills. The lake itself is artificial, formed when the Wairoa River was dammed for hydro-electricity, and the park has since grown into one of the region's finest, with mature specimen trees, sweeping picnic lawns and an arboretum that draws visitors for its autumn colour.
By day it is made for slow exploring: short walking tracks, birdsong from tūī and kererū, and a calm lake that is lovely for a paddle. After dark it transforms completely. A short walk leads into a canyon dell where thousands of native glowworms (Arachnocampa luminosa) light up the damp rock walls like a galaxy, one of the most magical and least-known night-time experiences in the Bay of Plenty, and completely free.
The park is about a 25-minute drive from Coastal Cottage, heading inland from Matua on State Highway 29 towards the Kaimai Range. Many visitors arrive in the late afternoon for a picnic, then stay on into the evening for the glowworms.
Highlights
The glowworm canyon
Walk into the dell after nightfall and let your eyes adjust to a ceiling of tiny blue-green lights.
Lakeside picnics
Grassy lawns and shady trees right on the water make this a perfect spot to bring lunch.
Native bush walks
Several short, well-formed tracks wind through the park, with the falls themselves a highlight after rain.
Birdlife
The park is alive with tūī, kererū and other native birds, especially in the early morning.
Tips for your visit
- Bring a torch for the walk in, but switch it off near the glowworms, light makes them dim.
- Visit the dell on a dark, clear night for the best display.
- Pack a picnic and make an afternoon and evening of it.
Getting there from the cottage
About 25 minutes from the cottage, heading inland towards the Kaimai Range.
Best time to visit
Dusk and after dark for the glowworms. Autumn brings beautiful colour to the park.