8 Great Swimming Spots

Kerosene Creek – Rotorua

Hot springs flowing through lush natural bush, and a beautiful waterfall too – it’s hard to imagine a better combination! The naturally soothing waters of Rotorua’s Kerosene Creek provide a great place to relax. Swimmers have used small smooth rocks to create little hot pools beside the waterfall. You’ll find this wonderful gem heading south along State Highway 5 from Rotorua to Taupo, on Old Waiotapu Road.

Rainbow Falls – Kerikeri

Looking for a place to take a refreshing dip in Kerikeri? Head along to Rainbow Falls; you won’t be disappointed! The spectacular 27-metre waterfall is accessed via an easy 5-10 minute walk from the carpark on Rainbow Falls Road. There are also several good viewing spots and a boardwalk for taking a leisurely stroll. A lovely place for enjoying a picnic and a cool-off on a hot afternoon.

Mermaid Pool – Matapouri, Northland

Just 10 minutes’ drive from Tutukaka, this spectacular white-sand beach is picture perfect. The estuary provides a safe swimming spot, and at low tide you’ll discover the crystal-clear Mermaid Pools. Take the track from the north end of Matapouri – it’s a short, but steep climb which may not be suited for littlies or those with mobility issues. A word of caution; avoid the pools at high tide and keep a close eye on children.

Cleopatra’s Pool – Abel Tasman

This hidden treasure is a must-do if you’re planning a trip to the Abel Tasman region. The pools are about a one-hour walk (each way) from either Torrent Bay or Anchorage in the Abel Tasman Regional Park. Discover a spectacular waterfall that gushes over giant moss-covered boulders and down into a crystal-clear plunge pool. A wonderful way to combine a beautiful walk with a refreshing swim.

Kakamatua Inlet – West Auckland

Looking for a spot for you and your dog to cool off? Kakamatua Inlet on Huia Road, Cornwallis is a dog-friendly beach with a fantastic fresh-water stream surrounded by lush grassy verges and bushland that’s just as inviting for people as it is for pooches. The kids will love exploring the shallow caves along the coastline, and there’s plenty of room for pets and littlies to run around, splash in the water and enjoy the sunshine.

Bulli Point – Taupo

You don’t really need to look too hard in Taupo to find a great swimming opportunity, but Bulli Point is just that extra bit special, particularly if you like to take a dive! Located on State Highway One between Taupo and Turangi, Bulli Point has three ledges to jump from, the highest at around seven metres. It’s the perfect stop-off point as you travel through the Taupo region, especially if you’ve got teens or tweens with you who are looking for a little adventure.

Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve – Marlborough

This will be a great hit with kids who like to jump and dive. The reserve, between Nelson and Havelock, offers a crystal-clear river with deep swimming pools and big boulders for jumping off. This beautiful location is where they shot the ‘dwarves in barrels’ scene from The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug. There are some lovely walking tracks around the area too – including one that leads to a waterfall and rock pool.

Ashley Gorge River – Oxford

Just five minutes’ drive from the Oxford Shops in Canterbury, Ashley Gorge River is the perfect place for all ages to take a dip, with shallow areas, swimming holes and diving spots for the more adventurous. There’s a lovely campground nearby too (Kiwi Holiday Park), so if you want to park up for a while and put your feet up, this is a great option.