Overview

Dawson Falls is an 18-metre waterfall on the Kapuni Stream, named after Thomas Dawson (1885). In te reo Māori it’s known as Te Rere o Noke—“the Falls of Noke,” a warrior said to have hidden behind the falls. The surrounding forest is thick with moss and lichen-draped tōtara and kāmahi, creating the twisted, other-worldly “Goblin Forest” vibe that Taranaki is famous for.

At a Glance

• Time on track: ~10 minutes one-way to the lookout (short stepped section, then Kapuni Loop).
• Distance: ~400 m from the road entrance to the lookout spur. (Entrance is ~400 m down Manaia Road from the Visitor Centre.)
• Grade: Easy–short; steps present near the start.
• Family friendly: Yes.
• Dogs: No (national park rules).
• Mobile coverage: Generally available.
• Accessibility: The generator track near the Visitor Centre is wheelchair/pushchair friendly; the waterfall lookout track has steps (not wheelchair-friendly).

Getting There & Parking

Set your maps for Manaia Road, Egmont National Park. Park at the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre carpark; it’s safer than pulling onto the roadside. From there, walk ~400 m down Manaia Road to the signed track entrance.

The Short Walk

1. Start down a brief stepped section, then join the Kapuni Loop Track.
2. Continue a few minutes to the Dawson Falls lookout.
3. Optional: take the sidetrack to the base of the falls for a different perspective (mind the spray and wet rocks).
4. Expect to hear/see tīeke (tomtits), tūī, kererū and bellbirds as you go.

Safety & Conditions

• Surfaces can be slippery after rain; take care on steps and near the stream.
• Stay behind barriers at lookouts and avoid slick rocks at the base.
• Weather changes quickly on the mountain—pack a spare layer.

What to Bring (quick list)

• Sturdy shoes (track shoes or walking sandals with grip)
• Drink bottle; light snack if you’re exploring extra tracks
• Light rain jacket/warm layer year-round
• Camera/phone (spray at the base—protect your gear)

Accessibility Notes

• Wheelchair/pushchair: The historic hydro generator path near the Visitor Centre is accessible and worth a look; the waterfall lookout track includes steps, so it’s not suitable for wheelchairs.

Make a Half-Day of It

From the Visitor Centre, you can branch onto other short walks ranging from an hour to full-day adventures if you’re keen to explore more of the Goblin Forest. Pop into the Dawson Falls Visitor Centre for track status and local history.