If you love finding places that feel like your own secret discovery, this one needs to go on your list.

Tucked away along the shores of Lake Whakamaru, Jones Landing Waterfall is a hidden gem that surprisingly few people know about. The best part? You won't find a walking track leading to it. Instead, you'll need to jump on a kayak or paddleboard and head out across the water, making the adventure feel even more special.

Launching from Jones Landing, it's a scenic paddle through peaceful bays and bush-covered shoreline before reaching the waterfall, which tumbles straight into the lake. On a calm day, the reflections on the water are stunning, and chances are you'll have the whole place to yourselves.

🌊 Best accessed by kayak or paddleboard
🌊 Hidden waterfall flowing directly into Lake Whakamaru
🌊 Launch from Jones Landing Reserve
🌊 Free hot showers and a popular freedom camping area nearby
🌊 Scenic walks and picnic areas around Jones Landing

To get to the waterfall: To reach the waterfall, launch from the campsite and head left along the lake. After around five minutes, turn left into a narrow side arm of the lake. A short paddle later you'll glide through a beautiful patch of lily pads before arriving at the waterfall tucked away at the end. It's a pretty magical little adventure.

We finally visited the waterfall and campground in early 2026 and absolutely loved the area. It's one of those places that instantly makes you start planning a return trip before you've even left. We still need to finish editing our video from the visit, but in the meantime, enjoy a few photos from our adventure!