Your Epic Guide to the Best Waterfalls, New Zealand: Auckland Edition
Here is the second edition of my epic guide to the best waterfalls in New Zealand – specifically written for the Auckland Region, and the waterfalls within its bounds. If you’re a city dweller but after a nature fix not too far from home, this guide has you covered. Here are twenty four pretty waterfalls in Auckland, along with all the answers to your questions. Here we go, from the top of the region to the bottom:
The Matakana Coast
The Matakana Coast is a popular summer holiday destination for Aucklanders, with a rich coastline of white sand beaches, especially on the Tāwharanui Peninsula. From Pakiri in the north all the way down to Pūhoi, there are a lot of natural gems to be discovered, and two of them are waterfalls worth making a trip out to!
1. Kohuroa Stream Waterfalls, Matheson Bay Reserve
General Location: Kohuroa Stream Waterfalls are in the northernmost part of Auckland, on the Matakana Coast. Nearest Civilisation: The nearest town is Leigh, a two minute drive away (1.2 kilometres, or three quarters of a mile). Immediate Surroundings: Kohuroa Stream Waterfalls are located within Matheson Bay Reserve, on the Kohuroa Stream.
Waterfall Height: The main Kohuroa Stream waterfall is 7 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: The track leads you past several, up to the last one, so you’ll get multiple viewpoints of multiple waterfalls. Waterfall Name: The waterfall is named for the Kohuroa Stream.
Getting There: The Kohuroa Stream Waterfalls are accessed via the Kohuroa Stream Track. Track Distance: The track to the Kohuroa Stream Waterfalls is only a couple of kilometres. Walk Time: The return walk is 40 minutes max.
Swimming: The swimming is good at Kohuroa Stream Waterfalls – there’s even a rope swing! Dogs: Dogs need to be on a leash in Matheson Bay Reserve. Wheelchairs and Prams: Parts of the track are boardwalks, but parts cross the stream, so the Kohuroa Stream Track is not suitable for wheelchairs and prams.
Go, Because: Go, because there are several waterfalls on this track! The last is the best. Something Extra: There’s a big swimming hole at the first waterfall so I’d definitely recommend jumping in, using the rope swing! Last Updated: September, 2024.
2. Pohuehue Waterfalls
General Location: Pōhuehue Waterfalls are north of the Auckland CBD, up on the eastern side of the Twin Coast Discovery Highway that runs up both northbound coastlines into the Northland region. Nearest Civilisation: The Pōhuehue Waterfalls are close to Waiwera and Pūhoi in the south, but the nearest place of bigger size is Warkworth to the north, which is a 7 minute drive (7.2 kilometres, or 4.3 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: The Pōhuehue Waterfalls sits on the Pōhuehue Stream. Waterfall Height: Pōhuehue Waterfall is 10 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: There is a viewing platform at the end of the track to view the waterfall.
Waterfall Name: Pōhuehue Waterfall is named for the tiny settlement of Pōhuehue, which is on the coastline and not far away. Getting There: The track to Pōhuehue Waterfalls is just called Waterfall Track. Track Distance: The track is 500 metres and 500 metres out.
Walk Time: The track to Pōhuehue Waterfalls is 30 minutes return. Swimming: There is not easy access to this waterfall fro swimming. Dogs: Dogs are not allowed on this trail.
Wheelchairs and Prams: The Pōhuehue Waterfalls track is not suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because this is such a quick, easy trail and you’re almost certainly driving past it on the highway if you’re in this area.
Something Extra: Beyond the viewing platform there is a steeper track down to the base of the waterfall. Only do it if it’s dry and make sure you will be able to get up again! Last Updated: September, 2024.
Omeru Scenic Reserve
Omeru Scenic Reserve is one of several areas in Auckland struggling with the spread of kauri dieback disease, a pathogen that spreads easily and kills off our native kauri trees. Tracks all over the region have been closed now and again to try and get on top of it without the visits from the public making it worse (people and dogs are carriers of the fungus when they bring in equipment eg shoes that already have the pathogen’s spores on them) – so just always research the tracks that you want to walk before you leave home, to ensure that they are open.
3. Omeru Waterfall
General Location: Omeru Waterfall and Waitangi Waterfall are up the western stretch of the Twin Coast Discovery Highway, (this section is named the the Kaipara Coast Highway), and is not far from the Northland region boundary. Nearest Civilisation: The nearest town to Omeru and Waitangi Waterfalls is Kaukapakapa, an eight minute drive south (9 kilometres, or 5.6 miles). Immediate Surroundings: Omeru Waterfall and Waitangi Waterfall are both located within Omeru Scenic Reserve and they sit on the Waitangi Stream.
Waterfall Height: Omeru Falls is 5 metres high and Waitangi Falls is 7 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: There is a viewpoint for each waterfall. Waterfall Name: There is also a Waitangi Falls in the south of the Auckland region (see below), but they are, in fact, different waterfalls.
Getting There: The track to the two waterfalls is the Omeru Falls Track. Track Distance: The track to the waterfalls is short – just a kilometre (just over half a mile). Walk Time: It’ll take you half an hour or less to walk the circuit.
Swimming: There are quite a few places where you can swim! Dogs: Dogs need to be on a leash in the Omeru Scenic Reserve. Wheelchairs and Prams: The track can get a bit steep for wheelchairs and prams.
Go, Because: Go, because there’s actually multiple waterfalls on the stream, with a third one being the Waitangi Stream Cascade. You can walk the loop track and view them all! They are all exceptionally pretty.
Something Extra: Pack a picnic and enjoy some extra time in the Omeru Scenic Reserve on your way out. Last Updated: September, 2024.
Whangaparāoa Peninsula & Surrounds
The Whangaparāoa Peninsula is north of the CBD and boasts its own regional park at the tip. The half closest to the mainland is inhabited, and the end of the peninsula features white sand beaches, clifftop vistas and rolling green hills. It’s a spectacular spot and is home to our next waterfall, Waterfall Gully:
4. Waterfall Gully
General Location: Waterfall Gully occupies the end of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula, which juts out off the east coast of northern Auckland Region. Nearest Civilisation: There is civilisation on the peninsula itself, in Whangaparāoa, with the suburbs of Red Beach and Silverdale as well, where the peninsula starts. Immediate Surroundings: At the end of the Whangaparāoa Peninsula is Shakespear Regional Park, one of Auckland Region’s loveliest regional parks, and it is in here that you will find Waterfall Gully.
Waterfall Height: Waterfall Gully is 4 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: The track will first take you to an upper lookout and then to the base of the waterfall, so you can view it from two places. Getting There: There are lots of track options in Shakespear Regional Park, but start at the Waterfall Gully carpark (near the entrance) and you’ll find signage from there.
Track Distance: From the Waterfall Gully carpark, it’s only a few hundred metres in on the Waterfall Gully Track. Walk Time: The track to Waterfall Gully is a ten minute return walk. Swimming: You can swim at Waterfall Gully, but you’re spoiled for choice with multiple beaches all within the park, so you’d be better off to enjoy the swimming on the pristine coastline instead!
Dogs: Dogs cannot visit the regional park at all. Wheelchairs and Prams: The track has stairs so is not suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because you can really make a day of it at Shakespear Regional Park, go on a longer walk, or enjoy the beaches.
Something Extra: Also in the regional park is Ōkoromai Bay, and you can collect shellfish there! Just ensure you respect the quota so that the bay does not get overfished. Last Updated: September, 2024.
5. Lucas Creek Waterfall
General Location: Lucas Creek Waterfall is right in the suburb of Albany, which is in the northern part of Auckland and on the fringe of where it starts feeling like the city. Nearest Civilisation: The suburb of Albany is as close as you can get – the waterfall is just off main highway, that passes through. Immediate Surroundings: Lucas Creek Waterfall sits on, well, Lucas Creek!
Waterfall Height: Lucas Creek Waterfall is 5 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can take two trails to view Lucas Creek Waterfall. Waterfall Name: Lucas Creek Waterfall is named after the creek (obviously).
Getting There: You can take either the Waterfall Track or the Northwood/Brookfield track to teach the Lucas Creek Waterfall. Track Distance: It’s less than 200 metres (0.1 miles) to Lucas Creek Waterfall. Walk Time: The trail to Lucas Creek Waterfall is a ten minute return trail but you’ll see it within two minutes of leaving the highway.
Swimming: Lucas Creek is not really in good enough condition for swimming in. Dogs: Keep dogs on a leash for Lucas Creek Waterfall. Wheelchairs and Prams: Lucas Creek Waterfall is accessed by a concrete path with no steps so prams and wheelchairs should be okay – take the Waterfall Track.
Go, Because: Go, because if you’re travelling through Albany, you don’t have to make very much of a detour at all. Something Extra: There is longer trail in the same reserve that you can opt to do as well, which will take you through lots of nīkau palms. Last Updated: September, 2024.
Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
The Waitākere Ranges Regional Park is the largest of Auckland’s 27 regional parks. At over 27,000 hectares, it dominates the area to the west of the city, sprawling from the western suburbs, over the ranges, and out to the famous West Coast beaches. It spoils you for choice with lots of wild, black sand beaches and just as many beautiful, photogenic waterfalls.
Much of it has been closed for the last few years as the spread of kauri dieback disease was threatening our native kauri trees with extinction, but extensive measures have been taken to get this under control. Entire hiking tracks are being re-done and put on boardwalks, to get people’s shoes off the soil (as that is how it can spread so easily) and we are slowly starting to see tracks re-opening. Many of these are closed still at the time of writing, but we are all hopeful they will be accessible again to the public in the not so distant future.
6. Mokoroa Falls, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
General Location: Mokoroa Falls is located west of Auckland City in the Auckland Region, and is the northernmost waterfall in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, which occupies an area nearly as big as the built up part of the city itself.
Nearest Civilisation: Mokoroa Falls is closest to Muriwai, which is both a village and a West Coast Beach. It’s a half hour drive between them though, because of the way you would have to double back inland first before driving out to the falls. You’d have to backtrack to the tiny outskirt town of Waimauku if you wanted to get there from Muriwai.
From the city, you’d come at it from Henderson, with the last sign of civilisation being Waitākere itself, before heading further into the park. Immediate Surroundings: Mokoroa Falls is one of several in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, arguably one of the best waterfall spots in the country, I think, with a high concentration (for the size of the area) of really beautiful waterfalls.
Waterfall Height: Mokoroa Falls is 11 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view Mokoroa Falls from an upper platform, and from the base of the falls – that is, when the track reopens. There’s a third viewpoint if you’re game to climb the boulder (where there are some footholds) to the top of the waterfall.
Waterfall Name: Mokoroa is in reference to a specific taniwha (a mythical water monster) and the pool below the falls was its lair. Getting There: The Mokoroa Falls Track takes you to Mokoroa Falls. It’s closed at the time of writing (and has been for a few years) while they put in measures to stop kauri dieback disease spreading further, as it’s killing the trees.
Track Distance: To get in and out, it is a 3 kilometre walk (1.9 miles). Walk Time: It’s a 40 minute walk to and from the falls. Swimming: When it reopens, you can definitely swim at the base of the waterfall!
Dogs: Dogs are not allowed on the Mokoroa Falls Track. Wheelchairs and Prams: The track is not ideal for wheelchairs and prams but it’s possible because there aren’t any steps. Go, Because: Go, because not only will you see Mokoroa Falls, but there is also Houheria Stream Falls, visible from the viewing platform.
Something Extra: You can choose to return along the Mokoroa Stream Track ad Goldie Bush Walkway for a longer walk (three or four hours). Last Updated: September, 2024.
7. Wainamu Falls, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
General Location: Wainamu Falls is located west of Auckland City, within the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park (which is over 27,000 hectares!) Nearest Civilisation: Wainamu Falls is closest to Bethells Beach (or Te Henga), which is the name of both a settlement and its namesake West Coast Beach. The Falls are only 5 kilometres (or 3 miles) from the settlement, a nine minute drive.
Immediate Surroundings: Wainamu Falls sit at the start of the Wainamu Stream. Waterfall Height: Wainamu Falls is 5 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can see Wainamu Falls from a lower viewpoint and from the top of the falls, as well as a couple of smaller waterfalls once you’re at the top.
Waterfall Name: I believe the name Wainamu is in reference to the sandflies that flock to the lake. Getting There: The Lake Wainamu Track takes you first to Lake Wainamu, then around it, and then to the waterfall. At the moment it is closed while redevelopments happen to stop kauri dieback disease further spreading.
Track Distance: The track is a little over 11 kilometres (7 miles). Walk Time: It’s a couple of hours to walk to and from the waterfall. Swimming: There are two swimming holes on this track, but they don’t beat Lake Wainamu for swimming, which is a popular sand dune sliding spot.
Dogs: You cannot bring your dog to Wainamu Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: The track is not suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because the landscape at Te Henga is like nowhere else, with its plethora of massive black sanddunes.
Something Extra: You can access the lake through the sand dunes, and so you can skip the first part of the trail in favour of the off-track experience. The sand dunes are pretty big and pretty other-worldly – take a boogie board to slide down them! Last Updated: September, 2024.
8. Fairy Falls, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
General Location: Fairy Falls is also located west of Auckland City, within the 27,000 hectare Waitākere Ranges Regional Park. Nearest Civilisation: Fairy Falls is closest to the suburb of Henderson Valley (not to be confused with the much larger Henderson, further inland) but because of a road closure, you might enter the park enroute to Fairy Falls via the fringe suburb of Swanson instead (which is a 20 minute drive away, 17 kilometres, or 10.5 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: Fairy Falls sits on Fairy Falls Stream. Waterfall Height: Fairy Falls is 15 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: There are three viewing platforms that have been recently built for your viewing pleasure.
Waterfall Name: There are two lots of Fairy Falls in New Zealand, so don’t get confused! The second is in Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park.
Getting There: The trail there is called Fairy Falls Walk and I’m pleased to announce that this trail has just reopened this year! So many of the trails in the park have been closed the last few years as kauri dieback disease was spreading and killing the trees, but they’ve put in platforms that mean people don’t go trampling in the bush and transferring the disease around from one part of the park to another anymore.
Track Distance: Fairy Falls Walk is 3.2 kilometres return, (or 2 miles). Walk Time: It’s a half hour walk to the falls from the carpark. Others reckon to allow a full hour and a half for the return trip.
Swimming: There are platforms that take you to the water’s edge so you can now swim without spreading kauri dieback! Dogs: You cannot take dogs to Fairy Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: The trail has some steps so is not suitable for wheelchairs or prams.
Go, Because: Go, because they’ve just re-done the track with boardwalks and platforms and done a beautiful job. Something Extra: While you’re in this part of the regional park, I would recommend paying the Arataki Visitor Centre a visit. The views over the ranges are amazing and there is a giant photo frame to stand in and capture you in front of it all. Last Updated: September, 2024.
9. Nihotupu Falls, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
General Location: Nihotupu Falls, like those above and below, is part of the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, located west of Auckland City. Nearest Civilisation: Nihotupu Falls is quite inland from the famous Piha Beach, so the nearest civilisation is not the beach, but the suburb of Titirangi, which is further south than other gateways into the park, like Henderson. Because of a road closure at the time of writing, you’d access the falls from the fringe suburb of Glen Eden, and that’s a 15 minute drive away (11 kilometres, or 7 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: Nihotupu Falls sits upstream from the Nihotupu Reservoir. Waterfall Height: Nihotupu Falls is 6 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one – but there are lots of rocks you can stand on and admire the Falls from, up close! There’s three more viewpoints of two further waterfalls if you keep going.
Getting There: The way to Nihotupu Falls is via the Upper Nihotupu Track. Track Distance: If walking past all three waterfalls – yes, there’s three! – and on to Auckland’s largest dam, past the picnic area and back to the carpark, you’re talking a 6 kilometre walk (3.7 miles). Walk Time: It’s 40 minutes return in and out of Nihotupu Falls.
Swimming: There’s some great swimming at the base of Nihotupu Falls! Dogs: You cannot bring your dog to Nihotupu Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: The first part of the Upper Nihotupu Track is gravel so it’s not really suitable for wheelchairs and prams.
Go, Because: Go, because there’s actually three waterfalls along this track! The second is down the stream. The track last the bridge takes you up there (and there’s a small trail to it’s base, too). The third is five minutes further along.
Something Extra: Your something extra is to continue past the third waterfall for another fifteen minutes – you’ll reach the Scenic Upper Nihotupu Reservoir, or the Upper Nihotupu Dam, which is 30 metres high. It supplies part of the city’s water. Last Updated: September, 2024.
10. Kitekite Falls, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
General Location: Kitekite Falls are within the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, west of Auckland City. Nearest Civilisation: Kitekite Falls, while within the park, is nearest to Piha, which is both a West Coast beach and its neighbouring village. The Falls are a kilometre away from the beach (0.6 miles) and only a thirteen minute walk away.
Immediate Surroundings: Kitekite Falls is part of Glen Esk Stream. Waterfall Height: Kitekite Falls is a whopping 40 metres high!
Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view Kitekite Falls from the bottom, from halfway up, or all the way at the top. A track goes up to the top along next to it. If you’re up for a swim, the top pool has an infinity-pool like edge where you can peer over the edge of the Falls without going over. This is the best viewpoint of all!
Waterfall Name: There’s speculation that Kitekite was originally Ketekete, which sounds like the tongue clicking that would precede an ambush by the Māori.
Getting There: You can walk over from Piha Beach, or you can take the Kitekite Falls Track from Glen Esk Road. It’s been upgraded and re-opened – as many of the tracks in the park are also in process of. The new track minimises the risk of people spreading kauri dieback disease from one part of the bush to another, as it was already spreading rapidly and killing off our natives.
Track Distance: It’s 2.75 kilometres in (nearly 2 miles), and the same back out. Walk Time: It will take you half an hour, give or take fifteen minutes, to reach the Falls. Some will take a bit longer that again – and allow an extra half hour to go up the top of the Falls (and the same for coming back down again). The trail leading up starts on the left side of the Falls.
Swimming: Swimming is compulsory, haha!! (Well, not really, but its one of Auckland’s best swimming holes so definitely go on a hot day). Dogs: Dogs are common at Kitekite Falls, but keep them on leash.
Wheelchairs and Prams: There are some stream crossings so it is not the most suitable track for those on wheels, but there are some who still manage it. Go, Because: Go, because this is possibly the best waterfall in the park (though maybe tied with Karekare Falls!) and with its impressive height and six drops, it’s really worth a visit.
Something Extra: Take the track up to the top and jump off the rocks into the pool. Make sure you get that insta-shot of you leaning over the edge of the Falls (be safe!). Last Updated: September, 2024.
11. Karekare Falls, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
General Location: Karekare Falls lies within the bounds of the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, which is located west of Auckland City. Nearest Civilisation: For Karekare Falls, that’s Karekare, the locality, but it’s teeny tiny! Huia is the next closest on the map, at least, as the crow flies, but as you can’t drive through from Huia, you’ll access Karekare Falls the same way you access Piha. You’ll start in the fringe suburb of Glen Eden (a 40 minute drive away at 25 kilometres, or 15 miles) and head westbound into the park from there.
Immediate Surroundings: Karekare Falls is all the way out on the coast, so you’ll drive the width of the regional park before you get there. It sits on the Karekare Stream and is only a few hundred metres from Karekare Beach. Waterfall Height: Karekare Falls is 30 metres high – impossible to fit into a landscape photo, so please accept this one I’ve got just of the base of the Falls! My beautiful friend Claudia did a photoshoot of us there.
Waterfall Viewpoints: There is a viewpoint from the bottom of Karekare Falls, and, when it reopens, a track to the top of the waterfall, too. Waterfall Name: I believe the name Karekare has been shortened from Waikarekare, which was the name of the nearby stretch of ocean, meaning turbulent waters. (That is certainly true of the Wild West Coast beaches!)
Getting There: The Karekare Falls Walk won’t take you long, but once you’re at the base of the Falls, you can opt to do the Taraire Track to the top. It’s closed at the time of writing – as are/have been so many in the park, while they get on top of the spread of kauri dieback disease, but when it reopens, people will once again be able to make the one hour return trip to the top and back down.
Track Distance: The Karekare Falls walk is just a few hundred metres in. Walk Time: It’s a five minute walk to Karekare Falls. Swimming: Swimming at Karekare Falls is very popular and you should definitely pack swimwear!
Dogs: Dogs are not allowed at Karekare Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: Because there are some steps on the Karekare Falls Track, it is not wheelchair or pram accessible. Go, Because: Go, because Karekare, and its namesake Karekare Beach, was the filming location for the 1993 historical drama, The Piano.
Something Extra: There’s another waterfall here! It’s Opal Pool Stream Cascade, and you can read about it .. next! Last Updated: September, 2024.
12. Opal Pool Stream Cascade, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
General Location: The Opal Pool Stream Cascade is, like so many others, located within the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park in the west of the Auckland Region, west of the city. Nearest Civilisation: For the Opal Pool Stream Cascade, you’ll likely drive in from the fringe suburb of Glen Eden (a 40 minute drive away at 25 kilometres, or 15 miles) and head westbound into the park from there.
Immediate Surroundings: Opal Pool Stream Cascade sits on the Karekare Falls Walk – just a minute or so before Karakare Falls. Both are within a half kilometre of Karekare Beach. Waterfall Height: Opal Pool Stream Cascade is 4 metres high.
Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view the waterfall from the track, or climb like we did and sit in front of the pool. Waterfall Name: Opal Pool Stream Cascade is named for the stream it runs out of. Getting There: Opal Pool Stream Cascade sits on the Karekare Falls Walk.
Track Distance: The track to the Opal Pool Stream Cascade is only a mere couple of hundred metres. Walk Time: Allow about .. two minutes! Swimming: It’s a little pool, but a great one for little people!
Dogs: Dogs are not allowed at Opal Pool Stream Cascade. Wheelchairs and Prams: Because there are steps on the track, this waterfall is not wheel-friendly. Go, Because: Go, because you’ll likely pass it anyway if you’re on your way to Karekare Falls. Do stop and appreciate it!
Something Extra: The size of this cascade and layout with the pool and the rock the water slides off makes it a good one for getting under/behind the waterfall for a really cool perspective. Last Updated: September, 2024.
13. Pararaha Stream Falls, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
General Location: West of Auckland City, within the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, sits yet another waterfall (well, a series of them actually), – these ones all in the Pararaha Valley, which divides Karekare and Whātipu, Whātipu being the last beach along this stretch of coastline, going north to south. Nearest Civilisation: It’s Glen Eden, a fringe suburb that will take you out to the edge of the city before the road leads you over the ranges.
Immediate Surroundings: These waterfalls are part of the Pararaha Stream. Waterfall Height: There’s a few but the main Pararaha Stream Waterfall is 10 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s multiple viewpoints of multiple waterfalls on this track.
Waterfall Name: Pararaha Stream Falls are named for the stream, which is named for the valley. (However, I believe Pararaha means flat.)
Getting There: It’s a big walk to the Pararaha Stream Falls, with a couple of options, but you’d be best starting on the Odlin Timber Track, and either switching to the Pararaha Route after the stream crossing, or switching to the Cowan Stream Track after the Cowan Stream crossing, three quarters of an hour in. Expect to take two and a half hours from the trailhead to the Pararaha Stream, and a half hour on top of that to reach the main waterfall. On the return leg you can take the Pararaha Valley Track and switch to the Buck Taylor Track, or you can take the Zion Hill Track, the Zion Ridge Track, and finally, the Buck Taylor Track.
Confused? Tramp Addicts breaks down their walk beautifully: https://trampaddicts.weebly.com/pararaha-stream–beach–zion-loop.html
Currently these tracks are all closed, but we expect them to re-open in the next couple of years. Track Distance: The route to the Pararaha Stream Waterfall is 10 kilometres, or 6 miles. Walk Time: Allow three hours for getting in, and the same for getting out.
Swimming: The second to last waterfall before the end has a great swimming spot, the first one on the Pararaha Stream when you reach that, two and a half hours in. Dogs: Dogs are not allowed in this area. Wheelchairs and Prams: This is a walk that is long, can be steep, has steps and knee deep stream crossings, so is unsuitable for wheelchairs and prams.
Go, Because: Go, because it’s one of the most remote waterfalls in the park and so you might get it to yourself – and for the views of Karekare Beach that you’ll enjoy after your ascent! Something Extra: Take a tent and spend the night at the Pararaha Valley Campsite, so that you can do a sunset or a sunrise excursion! Last Updated: September, 2024.
14. Karamatura Falls, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
General Location: Karamatura is located within the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, a 27,000+ hectare park in the west of the Auckland Region. Nearest Civilisation: Karamatura Falls is a lot more inland than some of these other waterfalls that are out near the West Coast beaches themselves, so it’s easily accessed from Huia, in the south of the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park. In fact, the trailhead is just a kilometre and a half from the Huia store.
Immediate Surroundings: Karamatura Falls sits on the Karamatura Stream, which flows into Huia Bay. Waterfall Height: Karamatura Falls is 15 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: There are a couple of good boulders where you can view Karamatura Falls from, at the base of the Falls.
Getting There: The track you’ll use to to ascend to Karamatura Falls is the Karamatura Loop Walk (and later you switch to the Karamatura Track for the last five minutes). Track Distance: You’ll be walking 3.5 kilometres (2 miles). Walk Time: It’s 45 minutes to the Falls, and 45 back.
Swimming: The pool at the base of Karamatura Falls makes for excellent swimming, if you can brave the cold. Dogs: Dogs are allowed at Karamatura Falls but need to be on a leash. Wheelchairs and Prams: This is not an accessible track to those on wheels – the track has 1,248 steps!
Go, Because: Go, because this waterfall is very pretty and the swim up there will feel so good after doing all those steps! Something Extra: When you’ve finished your climb and descent back down, why not grab yourself a treat at the Huia Store on your way back home? Last Updated: September, 2024.
15. Whātipu Stream Falls, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park
General Location: The Whātipu Stream waterfalls are in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, which is in the west of the Auckland Region. Nearest Civilisation: The closest civilisation is the tiny settlement of Huia. The trailhead is approximately twenty minutes drive from Huia (7.5 kilometres, or 5 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: The Falls are on the Whātipu Stream and Kauru Stream – there’s actually a few. Waterfall Height: The biggest of them is approximately 15 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: The track takes you up to the top of each waterfall you encounter, so you’ll get quite a few different viewpoints of each.
Waterfall Name: The waterfalls are named for the stream, which is named for the beach. Whātipu refers to a spiritual guardian who presided over the Manukau Harbour (Whātipu Beach is where the north to south coastline suddenly turns a corner and becomes the Manukau harbour).
Getting There: You take the Kura Track – which is closed at the time of writing while they get kauri dieback disease under control, although its reopening is eagerly anticipated hopefully in the next couple of years – and it’s a loop, but it does take a while to walk. Track Distance: The loop is nearly 8 kilometres, or 5 miles. Walk Time: Allow six hours for this loop.
Swimming: There are several pools on the trail that make for great swimming. Dogs: Dogs are not allowed on the trail. Wheelchairs and Prams: This is a long, steep track, and is not suitable for wheelchairs and prams.
Go, Because: Go, because the trail will have you scaling waterfall upon waterfall. You can take multiple dips in multiple pools as you ascend, which makes for a great day out.
Something Extra: Once you return to the Whātipu Carpark, head out to the beach for a fabulous West Coast sunset – there’s even a series of caves to explore if you follow the caves track along the coast. Last Updated: September, 2024.
Auckland City
Auckland City is New Zealand’s biggest city in terms of population. Previously eight different councils had jurisdiction of the different parts of the region, which is now governed by the one council, and Auckland became one, big super city nearly fifteen years ago. The greater Auckland Region stretches much further out, but in terms of the urban and suburban part of Auckland, we have one waterfall, and it’s Oakley Creek Waterfall.
16. Oakley Creek Waterfall
General Location: Oakley Creek Waterfall is the only waterfall truly in the vicinity of Auckland City. It’s actually next to the motorway! Nearest Civilisation: The closest suburb to Oakley Creek Waterfall is Waterview.
Immediate Surroundings: The waterfall is part of Oakley Creek, which cascades through Oakley Creek Esplanade Reserve. Waterfall Height: Oakley Creek Falls is 6 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view Oakley Creek Waterfall from the bottom or the top.
Waterfall Name: Oakley Creek’s Māori name, Te Auaunga, means swirling waters. Getting There: You can park on Alford Street or in the Oakley Creek Carpark on Cowley Street. Once you’ve crossed Great North Road, you can take the Oakley Creek Walkway.
Track Distance: Crossing Great North Road, the track down will have you at the Falls within a couple of hundred metres. Walk Time: The Oakley Creek Walkway to the Falls and back will take you 20 minutes for the loop – but you’ll be at the waterfall in the first five. Swimming: Sometimes there might be signage warning against swimming on the basis of the water quality, but when I went in 2018 people were jumping off the top of the waterfall into the water.
Dogs: Keep dogs on a leash at Oakley Creek Waterfall. We took our friend’s border collie. Wheelchairs and Prams: There are steps so the waterfall is not accessible to wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because this is New Zealand’s tallest urban waterfall!
Something Extra: The longer Te Auaunga Oakley Creek Walkway is a one way, one hour, 4 kilometre (or 2.5 mile) walk that you also have the option of doing. Last Updated: September, 2024.
Tāpapakanga Regional Park
In the bottom of Auckland in a little corner that it feels like everyone has forgotten is there, is a teeny weeny regional park – Tāpapakanga Regional Park. It’s 120 hectares big and occupies the farmland around Ōrere Point. Yet even in this tucked away corner we have another waterfall – the Tāpapakanga Waterfall.
Tāpapakanga Falls, Tāpapakanga Regional Park
General Location: Tāpapakanga Falls sit within the Tāpapakanga Regional Park, which occupies the bottom left corner of the Auckland Region, not too far from the Waikato border. It’s a coastal regional park and it sits on the Firth of Thames, which stretches from Auckland City from the Coromandel Peninsula. Nearest Civilisation: The nearest settlement to the Falls is the (tiny) Ōrere Point.
Immediate Surroundings: The Tāpapakanga Falls sit on the Tāpapakanga Stream, which flows out to Tāpapakanga Bay. Waterfall Height: The tallest waterfall is still several metres high, and estimated to be 15 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view each of them from right underneath, on the beach.
Waterfall Name: The Tāpapakanga Falls are named after the Tāpapakanga Stream.
Getting There: The waterfalls are actually on the beach, so from the beach front, once you’re in the regional park, head down the beach toward the campsite. You can only access the waterfalls at low tide and you will need to cross the rocks over to the next bay. There are four thin waterfalls, but no official track.
Track Distance: It’s approximately a kilometre and a half each way, looking at the map. Walk Time: Allow and hour for the return walk up and down the bay. Swimming: You can’t swim in these waterfalls – they’re tiny – but you can swim in the sea!
Dogs: Dogs are not allowed here. Wheelchairs and Prams: This is a beach track so is not suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because you’ll probably be the only one there!
Something Extra: As with all the Auckland Regional Parks, there’s a giant photo frame you can stand in to have your photo taken against the beautiful backdrop of green farmland and the very blue Firth of Thames. Last Updated: September, 2024.
Hunua Ranges Regional Park & Surrounds
Hunua Ranges Regional Park is one of 27 regional parks in the Auckland Region, and certainly one of the biggest two at 14,000+ hectares. Kauri dieback disease has been a threat here too, threatening our native kauri trees, so entrances to the park have wash stations for your shoes, as it is far too easy to spread the disease around. It doesn’t take much, which is a bit grim, but by all doing our bit and washing our shoes thoroughly we can really slow the spread down so it can be gotten the better of.
18. Thorps Quarry Waterfall
General Location: Thorps Quarry Waterfall sits virtually out on its own in the southeastern corner of the Auckland Region. Nearest Civilisation: It’s closest to Clevedon village, a little rural town known for its cute Sunday morning farmer’s market. The waterfall is just on the edge of the village.
Immediate Surroundings: Thorps Quarry Waterfall is within the Clevedon Scenic Reserve / Te Nikau Pā. It’s barely half a kilometre from the village shops. Waterfall Height: Thorps Quarry Waterfall is 10 metres high.
Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one. Waterfall Name: Sometimes Thorps Quarry Waterfall is known as Clevedon Waterfall. It’s named for the quarry, which was used in the early 1900s. Extracted rocks were used for roading in the area.
Getting There: From the Clevedon Scenic Reserve, you take a path leading to Old Thorps Quarry. Continue to follow the signs for Old Thorps Quarry until you see the picnic tables in the clearing – the waterfall is on the other side of that. Track Distance: The track is only a couple of kilometres, it’s not a long path.
Walk Time: The walk to Thorps Quarry Waterfall is a 20 minute return walk. Swimming: This is not a waterfall for swimming, as there’s no real pool to speak of. Dogs: Dogs need to be on a leash for Thorps Quarry Waterfall.
Wheelchairs and Prams: There are stairs on the track so the waterfall is not accessible to wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because its a bit of a hidden gem! Not many people know about it but it’s pretty and warrants the detour from the summit climb that most people come for.
Something Extra: Although it’s not the track to the waterfall, the most popular walk in the Clevedon Scenic Reserve is the Camp Sladdin climb up to the summit. It’s an hour return with fantastic views from the top. Beware of all the stairs – all thousand of them. Last Updated: September, 2024.
19. Hays Creek Falls, Hunua Ranges Regional Park
General Location: Hays Creek Falls is one of three main ones in the Hunua Ranges Regional Park, which occupies the southeast corner of the Auckland Region. Nearest Civilisation: Halfway between the village of Hunua, and Papakura (previously a city, making it now, well, a city within a city..) the nearest civilisation of any size is Papakura. You’ll find anything you need there before you take the 10 minute drive out into the park (which is 7.3 kilometres, or 4.5 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: Hays Creek Falls sits on Hays Creek. Waterfall Height: Hays Creek Falls is 6 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: There are two viewpoints – upper and lower. You’ll stumble on the upper first, and you can descend to the bottom if you’re careful.
Waterfall Name: Hays Creek Falls is named for the creek. Getting There: You’ll jump out of your car at the entrance to the Hays Creek Watercare dam and walk up to the dam, then up a stream, to the waterfall. Track Distance: The track is only a few metres.
Walk Time: It will take you about a half a minute to find Hays Creek Waterfall. Its an extra 30 seconds to take a track to the bottom of the waterfall. Swimming: There is nowhere to swim at Hays Creek Falls – save your swimming for Hunua Falls, which is a little deeper into the regional park. Dogs: Noone will stop you bringing your dog but between the car and the waterfall keep them on a leash, as the road is right there.
Wheelchairs and Prams: Those in wheelchairs and prams can view Hays Creek Waterfall from the road. Go, Because: Go, because this is one waterfall that takes minimal effort to drive to (you’re not far off the motorway) and minimal effort to walk to.
Something Extra: Pack a picnic! There’s a pretty grassy area in front of the waterfall and you’ll likely be the only one there. Last Updated: September, 2024.
20. Hunua Falls, Hunua Ranges Regional Park
This one is extra special to me – I got married here!
General Location: Hunua Falls is the most known waterfall in Hunua Ranges Regional Park. The Hunua Ranges occupy the southeast corner of the Auckland Region. Nearest Civilisation: The village of Hunua is closest – from here to the Falls it’s a 6 minute drive (5 kilometres, or 3 miles).
Immediate Surroundings: The Hunua Falls sits on the Wairoa River and along the Wairoa Faultline. Waterfall Height: Hunua Falls is 30 metres high.
Waterfall Viewpoints: You view Hunua Falls up close from the pool at the base, and also from afar from the little wooden bridge that takes you into the bush from the carpark. The stream in the foreground reflects Hunua Falls perfectly on a clear day. Waterfall Name: Hunua Falls is named after the Hunua Ranges – the name means mountainous.
Getting There: You don’t need to walk far – take the Hunua Falls Track from the carpark. Track Distance: The Hunua Falls Track is 800 metres return. Walk Time: It’ll take you 15 minutes to see the Falls and return to the carpark.
Swimming: The swimming hole at Hunua Falls is huge, – plenty of room for everyone – but also incredibly deep with steep drop offs. Be so careful. It’s very popular with swimmers but council discourages it as too many tragedies have occurred here.
Dogs: Dogs are not allowed at Hunua Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: Wheelchairs and prams will be able to do the short path to the Falls. Go, Because: Go, because this is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the region (definitely in my top three for its size and beauty).
Something Extra: As with all the other Auckland Regional Parks, there’s a giant photo frame here – take your photo standing in it with the scenery in the background! Last Updated: September, 2024.
21. Wairoa Falls, Hunua Ranges Regional Park
General Location: Wairoa Falls is one of three main ones in the Hunua Ranges Regional Park. The park occupies the southeast corner of the Auckland Region. Nearest Civilisation: Being deeper into the regional park, and further south than the other two, the closest civilisation is the village of Hunua, an 11 minute drive to the north (10 kilometres, or 6 miles). Wairoa Falls is super close to the Waikato boundary.
Immediate Surroundings: Wairoa Falls are named fo the Wairoa River, which is named for the Wairoa Faultline. Waterfall Height: Wairoa Falls is 6 metres high.
Waterfall Viewpoints: There are two. From the carpark, you can peer being the rocks on the right hand side to see the waterfall from the top, and from the gap in the bush at the far end of the carpark, you can take a little walk down to the bottom of the waterfall. Waterfall Name: Not to be confused with Te Wairoa Falls, which are in a historical village in Rotorua in the Bay of Plenty Region.
Getting There: You don’t have to walk far: from the Otau Road Carpark you need only cross the carpark and take a little track down through the bush to the stream and waterfall. Track Distance: It’s a 50 metre walk to the waterfall’s base. Walk Time: Allow 10 minutes for the return walk.
Swimming: Yes you can swim! A stone wall has been built that creates a little swimming pool at the base of the Falls. Dogs: Dogs can visit Wairoa Falls with you but must be on a leash. Wheelchairs and Prams: Wheelchairs and prams will be unable to access the base of the Falls.
Go, Because: Go, because this is the closest Auckland waterfall to the Waikato border. Something Extra: Definitely go on a nice day and pack swimwear so that you can enjoy the little pool. Last Updated: September, 2024.
South West Auckland Region
Franklin District forms the most southern part of the greater Auckland region, so these next waterfalls are all between forty minutes and an hour’s drive from the Auckland CBD – perfect for half-day excursions.
22. Maketū Waterfall, Maketū Pa Cemetery Reserve
General Location: Maketū Waterfall is just off the main highway (State Highway 1) that runs the length of the country, and leads you south out of the Auckland Region into the Waikato. Nearest Civilisation: Maketū Waterfall is closest to Ramarama, which is the motorway exit you’ll take to get there. It’s only a kilometre (half a mile) from Ramarama.
Immediate Surroundings: Maketū Waterfall sits in the Maketū Pa Cemetery Reserve. It’s a tiny little cemetery, and a tiny little waterfall. Waterfall Height: Maketū Waterfall is 8 metres high.
Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view it from the base or clamber to the top. Getting There: There’s a little path from Pratts Road through the cemetery to the waterfall. Track Distance: The track is only a few hundred metres long.
Walk Time: It’s a 20 minute return walk to Maketū Waterfall – max. Swimming: You can definitely swim here! There’s a decent swimming hole. I found it a bit cold and wasn’t super keen on getting in.
Dogs: Yes, you can bring your dog to Maketū Waterfall. Wheelchairs and Prams: This waterfall is not accessible for prams or wheelchairs. Go, Because: Go, because it’s a good place for a cool down on a hot day.
Something Extra: Your something extra is to stop and read the signage that shares some of the history of the Maketū Pā and the Whatapaka Marae that manage it. Last Updated: September, 2024.
23. Henry’s Reserve Waterfall / Whangamaire Stream Waterfall, Henry’s Scenic Reserve
General Location: Henry’s Reserve Waterfall is located right down in the south of the Auckland Region, not far from the Waikato border. Nearest Civilisation: The nearest civilisation is the tiny town of Patumāhoe, which is a 2 minute drive away (1.3 kilometres, or 0.8 miles). Immediate Surroundings: Henry’s Reserve Waterfall sits within Henry’s Scenic Reserve, on the Whangamaire Stream.
Waterfall Height: Henry’s Reserve Waterfall is 15 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s a couple, as you first see Henry’s Reserve Waterfall from the top, and then you can descend down to the viewing platform over the lower Falls. Waterfall Name: The other name for Henry’s Reserve Waterfall is Whangamaire Stream Waterfall.
Getting There: There’s a signposted track down to the waterfall that forms a loop. Track Distance: It’s only a few hundred metres to the waterfall. Walk Time: It’s a 20 minute return walk to and from Henry’s Reserve Waterfall.
Swimming: The waterfall cascades over some big boulders but does not have a suitable pool for swimming in. Dogs: Dogs need to be on a leash in Henry’s Scenic Reserve. Wheelchairs and Prams: This is not a suitable track for wheelchairs or prams.
Go, Because: Go, because this waterfall cascades over big mossy boulders so is really quite beautiful. Something Extra: Keep an eye out for painted rocks that are hidden amongst the bush on your way to the waterfall. Last Updated: September, 2024.
24. Mauku Waterfall / Wrights Watergardens Waterfall, Wrights Watergardens
General Location: Mauku Waterfall is also located in the south of the Auckland Region, not far from Henry’s Reserve. Nearest Civilisation: The closest place is Patumāhoe, which is a 3 minute drive away (1.7 kilometres, or 1 mile). Immediate Surroundings: Mauku Waterfall is part of Wright’s Watergardens, which has acres of gardens, a function centre and a café.
Waterfall Height: Mauku Waterfall is 5 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one! Waterfall Name: Mauku Waterfall is also known as Wright’s Watergardens Waterfall.
Getting There: There are lots of paths in the gardens but reception staff will point you in the right direction of Mauku Waterfall. Track Distance: It’s hard to find an accurate measure but it’s not a big walk to Mauku Waterfall. Walk Time: The walk to Mauku Waterfall is ten minutes return.
Swimming: You cannot swim at Mauku Waterfall. Dogs: Dogs cannot come to Wright’s Watergardens. Wheelchairs and Prams: There are lots of paths in the gardens that are accessible.
Go, Because: Go, because spending time at Wright’s Watergardens makes for a lovely half day out. They have ponds with waterlilies and even turtles. Something Extra: Stop at the café and grab yourself a beverage when you’re done enjoying the beauty of this place. Last Updated: September, 2024.
25. Waitangi Falls, Manukau Harbour
General Location: Waitangi Falls is down in the bottom left corner of the Auckland Region, at the base of the Āwhitu Peninsula. Nearest Civilisation: Waitangi Falls is just out of Waiuku, an 8 minute drive away (6.5 kilometres, or 4 miles). Immediate Surroundings: Waitangi Falls flows right into the Waiuku River.
Waterfall Height: Waitangi Falls is 6 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s a couple. There’s the view from the carpark, and there’s also a track down to the left of the picnic tables that goes down to the bottom.
Waterfall Name: There’s another Waitangi Waterfall, and it’s in the Auckland Region, too. The other is right up north near Kaukapakapa, in the Omeru Scenic Reserve (see the start of this post). They are different waterfalls.
Getting There: There’s a steep little path from the carpark down to the base of the waterfall. Track Distance: It’s just a few metres down to the bottom of Waitangi Falls. Walk Time: Waitangi Falls is a 5 minute walk – return. You can actually see it from the carpark.
Swimming: There’s a good pool for swimming in at the bottom of Waitangi Falls. Dogs: Dogs are fine at Waitangi Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: Because you can see it from the carpark, those in wheelchairs and prams will be able to see Waitangi Falls.
Go, Because: Go, because this is a great swimming spot in summer. Something Extra: While you’re in the area, consider the drive up to the top of the Āwhitu Peninsula, to Manukau Heads (an hour and a half’s return drive). You’ll see the lighthouse, the Manukau Harbour – and Whātipu Beach on the other side! Last Updated: September, 2024.
North to South, Auckland Region provides some truly incredible waterfall experiences for the day-explorer, for the city-dweller, for the micro-adventurer. We love that these are all close to home – what one is next on the list for you?