The Kawerau Information Centre, officially known as the Kawerau i-SITE Visitor Information Centre, is the essential travel hub for the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Located on Plunket Street, it provides critical services including Department of Conservation (DOC) permits for Tarawera Falls, accommodation bookings, InterCity bus ticketing, and exclusive local souvenirs.
Where is the Kawerau Information Centre Located?
Finding the Kawerau information centre is straightforward, as it is situated in the heart of the township, serving as a central beacon for visitors entering the district. The facility acts as the primary gateway for those looking to explore the geothermal wonders, forestry, and rich cultural heritage of the region.
Address:
Plunket Street, Kawerau 3127, New Zealand.
The centre is conveniently located near the town center, offering ample parking for campervans, cars, and tour buses. Its central position makes it an ideal first stop before heading into the Kaingaroa Forest or exploring the Tarawera River.
Operating Hours
To ensure you can access permits and travel advice, it is crucial to be aware of the opening times. The Kawerau i-SITE generally operates seven days a week, acknowledging the weekend influx of tourists seeking access to Tarawera Falls.
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Public Holidays: Hours may vary; often closed on Christmas Day and Good Friday.
Note: Hours are subject to change seasonally. It is highly recommended to call ahead if you are arriving late in the day, particularly if you require a forest access permit.
What Services Does the Kawerau i-SITE Offer?
The Kawerau information centre is part of New Zealand’s official i-SITE network. This accreditation guarantees a standard of service and objective information that domestic and international travelers rely on. The staff are local experts, trained to provide comprehensive logistical support for your journey.
Accommodation and Activity Bookings
Whether you are looking for a campsite, a motel in Whakatāne, or a luxury lodge in Rotorua, the staff can handle bookings directly. They utilize a national network to secure reservations not just locally, but throughout New Zealand. This service is particularly valuable during peak seasons when online inventory may appear scarce; i-SITE consultants often have access to real-time availability.
Transport Ticketing
Kawerau is a key stop for several transport networks. The information centre acts as a booking agent for:
- InterCity Buses: Book travel to and from Kawerau, connecting you to major hubs like Auckland, Tauranga, and Wellington.
- Cook Strait Ferries: Bookings for the Interislander and Bluebridge ferries can be managed here for those continuing their journey to the South Island.
- TranzAlpine and Coastal Pacific Trains: Rail journey reservations are also available.
Public Amenities
Beyond bookings, the centre provides clean public toilets, free Wi-Fi access for travelers needing to check emails or maps, and a comfortable rest area. It serves as a safe haven for travelers needing to regroup and plan their next leg of the journey.
How to Get Tarawera Falls Permits
The most critical service provided by the Kawerau information centre—and the primary reason for many visits—is the issuance of access permits for Tarawera Falls and the surrounding forestry areas.
Tarawera Falls is located within a private forestry block managed by Hancock Forest Management. Unlike public conservation land that is open access, this area requires a vehicle access permit for entry. The road to the falls is a working forestry road, meaning safety and accountability are paramount.
The Permit Process
To visit the falls, you must stop at the Kawerau i-SITE during opening hours. Here is the process:
- Application: You will fill out a permit application providing your vehicle registration and contact details.
- Fee Payment: There is a nominal administration fee for the permit (roughly $10 per vehicle, though prices can change).
- Gate Access: You will be given the current access code or a key for the forestry gate. Important: If you do not have this permit, you cannot pass the gate, and unauthorized entry is considered trespassing.
- Safety Briefing: Staff will inform you of any logging operations, road closures, or fire risks currently affecting the forest.
Warning: The centre is the exclusive physical provider of these permits on weekends. If you plan to visit the falls on a Saturday or Sunday, you must arrive before the centre closes at 2:00 PM. There are no online alternatives for immediate weekend access if the centre is closed.
Souvenirs and Local Crafts
The retail section of the Kawerau information centre is a treasure trove of regional culture. Unlike generic tourist shops, the i-SITE focuses on showcasing the talent of Eastern Bay of Plenty artisans. This supports the local economy and offers visitors unique mementos that cannot be found elsewhere.
Authentic Māori Arts and Crafts
Kawerau has a strong Māori heritage, and this is reflected in the goods available. Visitors can purchase:
- Whakairo (Carving): Small wooden carvings and sculptures created by local artists.
- Raranga (Weaving): Flax kete (baskets) and flowers.
- Pounamu (Greenstone): Jewelry and taonga (treasures) sourced and carved in New Zealand.
Local Produce and Apparel
The shop also stocks a range of “Kiwi-ana” gifts, including Manuka honey products, skincare ranges utilizing local botanicals, and high-quality apparel such as merino wool garments and possum fur accessories. For those collecting memorabilia, you can find magnets, postcards, and books detailing the history of the paper mill town and the geothermal activity of the region.
Staff Recommendations: What to See in Kawerau
One of the greatest assets of the Kawerau information centre is the knowledge of its staff. They are residents who know the hidden gems that aren’t always listed in the major guidebooks. Below are the top recommendations frequently given by the i-SITE team.
1. Putauaki (Mt Edgecumbe)
Dominating the skyline, this volcanic cone is culturally significant to the local iwi. While access to the summit requires permission (which the i-SITE can advise on), the mountain provides a stunning backdrop for photography and is central to the identity of the town.
2. The Tarawera River
The river is a venue for world-class kayaking and rafting. The staff can direct you to the best viewing spots to watch slalom kayakers training on the rapids. For a more relaxed experience, they can point out the best picnic spots along the riverbank where the water is calmer.
3. Monika Lanham Reserve
For those interested in walking but unable to commit to the Tarawera Falls track, staff often recommend the Monika Lanham Reserve. It offers a network of bush walks right on the town’s doorstep, providing elevated views over Kawerau and the Bay of Plenty coastline in the distance.
4. Kawerau Thermal Amenities
Kawerau is built on geothermal land. The i-SITE can provide directions to the free thermal foot pools located in the town parks, a favorite stop for weary travelers looking to soak their feet in natural hot water.
Planning Your Trip to the Eastern Bay of Plenty
When visiting the Kawerau information centre, it helps to view it as the launchpad for the wider Eastern Bay of Plenty region. The district is known for being less commercialized than its western neighbors like Tauranga, offering a more rugged and authentic New Zealand experience.
Best Time to Visit:
The region enjoys a warm climate. Summer (December to February) is peak season for the falls and river activities. However, the shoulder seasons (Autumn and Spring) are highly recommended by staff for hiking, as the temperatures are milder and the forest tracks are less crowded.
Safety First:
The i-SITE promotes the “Tiaki Promise”—a commitment to care for New Zealand. They will remind you to pack out what you pack in, stay on marked tracks, and respect the cultural significance of the land. Always check the weather forecast at the centre before heading into the bush, as conditions in the Tarawera Forest can change rapidly.
By utilizing the resources at the Kawerau information centre, you ensure your visit is not only enjoyable but safe and compliant with local regulations. Whether you need a permit, a bed for the night, or just a friendly chat about where to get the best coffee, the team on Plunket Street is ready to assist.
People Also Ask
Do I need a permit to go to Tarawera Falls?
Yes, a vehicle access permit is mandatory because the road to Tarawera Falls passes through a private working forest. You can obtain this permit from the Kawerau i-SITE Information Centre on Plunket Street. Without it, you cannot access the forestry gate.
Is the Kawerau Information Centre open on weekends?
Yes, the centre is generally open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. It is critical to arrive within these hours to secure permits for weekend activities.
Can I book InterCity buses at the Kawerau i-SITE?
Yes, the Kawerau i-SITE is an authorized booking agent for InterCity buses, as well as the Interislander and Bluebridge ferries and scenic rail journeys.
How much does the Tarawera Falls permit cost?
The permit usually incurs a small administration fee, typically around $10 per vehicle. It is best to bring cash or card to the centre when applying.
What can I buy at the Kawerau Information Centre?
The centre sells a variety of goods including DOC hut tickets, maps, locally made Māori arts and crafts, merino clothing, Manuka honey, and general New Zealand souvenirs.
Are there toilets at the Kawerau Information Centre?
Yes, the centre provides clean public restrooms and baby changing facilities for travelers, along with free Wi-Fi access.
