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McLaren Falls Park is a 190‑hectare natural haven located just 10 minutes by car from Tauranga, set alongside Lake McLaren in the picturesque Bay of Plenty region :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. This multi‑use park combines lush native bush, scenic lakeside vistas, cascading waterfalls, and a remarkable collection of exotic and native trees—making it ideal for family outings, romantic picnics, and adventurous escapes.
The park is accessible via State Highway 29 (SH 29), just off McLaren Falls Road in Omanawa. Follow signs to the park entrance; slow‑vehicle access throughout the park makes it easy to reach picnic spots and trailheads by car :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}. Parking is available at several car parks including near the waterfall and the information centre.
With a temperate climate, the region experiences mild winters (7–16 °C) and warm summers (20–28 °C), making the park enjoyable year‑round :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. Autumn brings spectacular foliage and is optimal for photography. Expect occasional rain, so pack rain protection and sturdy footwear for wet trails.
- **Summer (Daylight Saving):** 07:30–19:30 - **Winter (Standard Time):** 07:30–17:30 :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} Gates close to vehicle entry at closing time, but exits remain open—ideal for staying late to experience the glowworm track :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
- A 7‑metre cascading waterfall is the park’s centerpiece and doubles as a glowworm viewing spot at dusk :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
- Over 500 species of trees (native and exotic) grace the grounds, planted by the Bay of Plenty Tree Society in the 1960s, creating stunning seasonal displays :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
- Known for popular activities including camping, kayaking, disc golf, trout fishing, bush walking, equestrian trails, and a petting zoo :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
There is **no charge for entry** into McLaren Falls Park, though some facilities have fees:
Established as a scenic reserve, the park was transformed in the 1960s by the Bay of Plenty Tree Society, which planted exotic and native species to create one of New Zealand’s most significant arboretums :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}. It sits within the Wairoa River system, part of the historic Kaimai Hydro Power Scheme; the power station built here in the 1920s was decommissioned in 1989 :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.
- **Waterfall + Glowworm Trail:** A flat, easy informed loop ending at a beautiful waterfall and glowworm-filled gully :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
- **Walking & cycling trails:** Follow lakeside tracks or deeper bush trails, some suitable for mobility scooters :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.
- **Kayaking & paddleboarding:** Lake McLaren allows non-motorized boats and guided kayak tours :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.
- **Disc golf:** Tackle 9 or 18 holes amid stunning scenery :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.
- **Fishing:** Year-round trout fishing in lake and canal :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}.
- **Camping & picnicking:** Use shelters, tables and electric BBQs at designated sites :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}.
- **Marshalls Animal Park:** Petting zoo featuring exotic and farm animals like emus, Clydesdales, ostriches, and kune kune pigs :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}.
- **Equestrian:** Horse unloading and riding in a designated zone via Tauranga Pony Club :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}.
