If you're looking for a truly epic outdoor adventure in New Zealand, it’s hard to beat the Rere Rockslide. Hidden away in the lush hills inland from Gisborne, this massive natural waterslide is one of the coolest and most unique places to visit — not just in Tairāwhiti, but in all of Aotearoa. This is a must-do for those looking for a bit of fun and adventure while they are visting
From NZ Herald on youtube
What is the Rere Rockslide?
The Rere Rockslide is exactly what it sounds like: a giant sloping sheet of smooth rock, about 60 metres long (around 200 feet), over which the Wharekopae River flows, creating a perfectly natural water slide. Over thousands of years, the river has smoothed out the surface, so today it’s slick enough for people to launch themselves down — usually on inflatable tubes, bodyboards, air beds or even makeshift rafts.
The slope isn’t vertical — it’s more like a long, fast downhill ride — giving you the perfect mix of adrenaline and fun without being too extreme. When you hit the plunge pool at the bottom, you can’t help but come up laughing.
It’s free, it’s natural, and it’s seriously fun.
Why is it So Cool?
1. It’s Pure Kiwi Fun
The Rere Rockslide captures the true spirit of a Kiwi summer: no tickets, no fancy theme parks — just you, your friends, a board or tube, and nature’s own playground. Take a picnic and spend the whole day up there. And check out the nearby Rere Waterfall and Champagne Pools while you are there
2. It’s Family-Friendly (Mostly!)
While it’s pretty wild, the Rere Rockslide is popular with families too. Kids (usually older ones) and teenagers love it, but it’s important to know your limits. It is rock and you can get injured if you're not careful, but I guess that's part of the rush! Even though you can slide down just on your bum, its bumpy and hard so better off using a vessel to go down on. The water can be cold, even in summer, so some choose to use a wetsuit while they are there for wamrth and added protection. Luckily, you can head into Blitz Surf Shop in Gisborne to hire wetsuits, boogie boards, and tyre tubes — everything you need to slide safely and have the best time.
3. It’s Surrounded by Beauty
Located in the peaceful countryside, about 45 minutes from Gisborne City, the whole area is stunning. Lush rolling farmland, native bush, and clear river water make it a perfect day trip destination. After sliding to your heart's content, you can visit the nearby Rere Falls — a gorgeous curtain waterfall just a few minutes down the road.
4. Endless Ways to Slide
You’ll see people getting creative: bodyboards, yoga mats, old inner tubes, inflatable rafts, and more. Every run is different depending on how you launch yourself — some people spin, some speed straight down, some link arms with their mates for massive group rides. If you don’t have your own board or tube, remember — Blitz Surf Shop has gear hire ready to go to make your day easy and epic. Our preferred mode of sliding is a bodyboard for best speed and control.
5. It's Instagram Gold
Whether you’re posting reels, TikToks, or just collecting memories, the Rere Rockslide is ridiculously photogenic. The bright green countryside, sparkling water, and huge grins make every photo pop. There are dry areas down both sides of the rockslide so you can get that photo angle perfected to get sliding images
From barekiwi.com on youtube
Gear Up Before You Go
Before you hit the road, make sure you're fully kitted out for the adventure.
At Blitz Surf Shop, you can hire or buy:
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Wetsuits – Stay warm and protected while you slide
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Bodyboards – For the ultimate Rere Rockslide experience
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Tyre tubes – Perfect for a smooth, bouncy ride. Good to team up with the little ones on a fat tractor tyre tube
Plus, if you're spending a full day out in the sun, don’t forget the essentials! Blitz also stocks:
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Sunscreen – Stay sun smart while you're out in the water
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Hats and caps – Keep the sun off your face between slides
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Towels, water bottles, and more – Everything you need for a fun, safe trip
Swing by Blitz Surf Shop and grab everything you need here.
Important Tips for First-Timers
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Bring a boogie board, tube, or wetsuit — or hire them from Blitz Surf Shop!
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Wear old clothes or a wetsuit — you might get a few scrapes, especially if the water level is low. But the slide goes much better with less water so its worth it
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Check the water conditions — after rain, the river runs faster (and sliding gets slower). There is always a water quality warning in place because of farming upstream. Most people disregard this warning!
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Be respectful — Rere Rockslide is a natural taonga (treasure). Take your rubbish with you, be kind to the land, and look after the area.
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Take safety seriously — Watch out for other people, make sure nyou are a confidetn swimmer as the pool at the bottom will be over your head and a bit of current at the base of the slide
How to Get There
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From Gisborne City, drive inland along Wharekopae Road. It’s about a 45-minute drive through scenic countryside.
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The slide is right beside the road — there’s parking available, and it’s easy to find.
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Make a full day of it by also visiting the Rere Falls and the Eastwoodhill Arboretum, New Zealand’s national arboretum.
Final Thoughts
The Rere Rockslide isn’t just another activity — it’s a full-on, unforgettable experience. Whether you're visiting Gisborne for the summer, a local looking for a classic day out, or an adventurer ticking off hidden gems, the Rockslide is a must-do.
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of flying down a natural waterslide, laughter echoing through the hills, and splashing into cool clear water.
It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s ridiculously fun.
Before you head out, swing into Blitz Surf Shop to gear up with wetsuits, boogie boards, tyre tubes, sunscreen, and more — and make sure your Rere Rockslide mission is as epic (and safe) as possible.
See you out there!
