Hunua Falls

 

Hunua Falls

Hunua Falls is located in the western part of the Hunua Ranges Regional Park, within the Auckland region. This striking 30-metre waterfall is part of the Wairoa River, which winds its way through the remnants of an ancient volcano as it flows north toward the township of Clevedon and eventually into the Hauraki Gulf. Known for its natural beauty and popularity with locals, Hunua Falls is considered one of New Zealand’s must-visit waterfalls.

Driving and walking conditions

GPS of the view point: S 37° 4' 9" E 175° 5' 24"
Parking: the end of Falls Road, Hunua, Auckland
Vehicle type: All vehicle types Track type: Easy walking track
Road type: Sealed Return track duration: 10min

Waterfall parameters

Waterfall height: 30m Type of the waterfall: Horsetail

Rating:       ⭐⭐⭐⭐
GPS:          S 37° 4' 9" E 175° 5' 24"
Parking:     the end of Falls Road, Hunua, Auckland
Access:     10min return walk


Walking and driving instructions

 

Hunua Falls is located approximately 45 to 60 minutes from Auckland City, with sealed roads the entire way.

To reach the falls from Auckland, head south on State Highway 1 (SH1) and take the Papakura exit. Turn left onto Beach Road, which becomes Settlement Road. Continue until you reach Dominion Road, then turn right and shortly after, turn left onto Hunua Road. This scenic, winding route leads you to the village of Hunua. After approximately 10.5 km, watch for signs to ‘Hunua Falls.’ Turn left onto White Road, continue for 1.2 km, then turn right onto Falls Road and drive a further 2.3 km. You’ll arrive at a spacious, well-maintained car park managed by Auckland Council, which includes toilets and a pleasant picnic area with several tables. Please note that the park entrance gate operates automatically—it opens at 8 am and closes at 9 pm during Daylight Saving Time, or at 7 pm outside of Daylight Saving, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.

A short, easy path—suitable for all abilities—leads from the car park to a viewing platform at the base of the falls. This walk takes only 2 to 5 minutes. There’s also a scenic photo frame installed at the viewpoint, ideal for capturing memorable shots of the waterfall.

In addition, there are two walking tracks that offer different views of the falls:

  • Hunua Falls Lookout Walk: This is an easy 15-minute return track leading to a secondary lookout on the opposite side of the river. To access it, cross the footbridge, turn right, and follow the riverbank. The walk also provides access to the base of the falls, where you can feel the spray and experience the waterfall up close.

  • Falls Upper Lookout Walk: This gentle 30-minute return loop takes you to an elevated viewpoint. Cross the same footbridge and follow the clearly marked trail.

Please note: Swimming at Hunua Falls is not recommended due to a high number of drowning incidents in the area.


Waterfalls nearby

Hays Creek Falls

Rating:       ⭐⭐
Access:     1min return walk
Driving:   10.1 km (10 mins)

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Wairoa Falls

Rating:       ⭐⭐
Access:     10min return walk
Driving:   11.9 km (14 mins)

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Thorps Quarry Waterfall

Rating:       ⭐⭐
Access:     20min return walk
Driving:   14.4 km (17 mins)

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Maketu Waterfall

Rating:       ⭐⭐
Access:     20min return walk
Driving:   21.5 km (22 mins)

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