Rere Falls and the nearby natural rockslide are hidden gems inland from Gisborne. The falls tumble over a wide basalt shelf, while the rockslide offers a natural waterslide for thrill seekers. A campervan makes it easy to bring picnic gear, dry clothes and spend the whole day soaking up the fun.
Pack a bodyboard or inflatable mat — the rockslide is best when you can glide.
Area at a glance
About 45 minutes inland from Gisborne, Rere Falls sits on the Wharekopae River. Just down the road, the Rere Rockslide stretches around 60 metres of smooth rock where the river runs shallow and fast. It’s a natural playground popular with locals, families and travellers.
Why a campervan helps
- Bring wetsuits, towels and a change of clothes
- Keep food cool for a picnic by the river
- Store boards or inflatables without worrying about space
- Relax on-site without rushing back to town
Best time to visit
Summer and late spring are the most popular, with warm air and enough river flow for the slide. Autumn can still be mild. Winter is cold for swimming but the falls are still scenic. Weekdays are quieter than weekends and holidays.
Highlights
Rere Falls
- Wide curtain of water with a grassy picnic area
- You can carefully walk behind the falls when flow is low
Rere Rockslide
- Natural 60m waterslide on smooth rock
- Use a bodyboard or tube to ride safely
- Expect scrapes if you slide without protection
Etiquette & safety
- Check river flow — too much water makes it dangerous, too little makes it rough
- Look out for other sliders before starting
- No glass or rubbish — keep the area clean
- Respect the rural setting and drive slowly on access roads
What to bring
- Bodyboard, inflatable mat or tyre tube
- Towel, wetsuit or old clothes you don’t mind scuffing
- Picnic gear, chilly bin and water
- First aid kit for scrapes
- Camera for fun action shots
Driving & overnight notes
- Freedom camping is not permitted at the falls or rockslide
- Holiday parks and campgrounds available back in Gisborne
- Roads are sealed but narrow — watch for stock and farm vehicles
Search Campervans — Live Availability
Make Rere easy
A campervan means you can bring all the gear for sliding, picnicking and relaxing without cutting the day short. Dry off, cook a meal and enjoy the country drive back at your own pace.
Event Campers shows live availability from trusted rental brands so you can compare layouts and prices in one place. Choose your van and make Rere Falls a highlight of your East Coast trip.
