Last updated July 2026
Te Auaunga Oakley Creek Walkway is a formed path following the urban stream through Mt Albert and Waterview in Auckland. It provides access to Auckland’s only waterfall within the city area, a 6-metre cascade known as Oakley Creek Falls. The walkway connects reserves and offers an immersive experience amid native plantings despite its suburban setting. Restoration efforts by Auckland Council and mana whenua support native species including longfin eels. The route also forms part of wider path networks suitable for walking and cycling.
Practical Information
| Location | Access via Phyllis Reserve, Mt Albert or Great North Road, Waterview |
| Distance | Sections vary; main walkway segments approximately 3 km |
| Surface | Formed paths with some steps and bridges |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Time needed | 1–2 hours for main sections |
| Parking | Street parking at Phyllis Reserve and nearby reserves |
| Facilities | Toilets at Phyllis Reserve; limited mid-track |
| Cost | Free |
| Dogs | On leash at all times |
| Accessibility | Not suitable for wheelchairs due to steps and terrain |
About the Walkway
Te Auaunga (Oakley Creek) is one of Auckland’s longest urban streams, flowing approximately 15 km from Hillsborough to the Waitematā Harbour. The walkway runs through a bush corridor with mature native plantings and regenerating vegetation. It passes under motorway bridges while maintaining a natural feel at ground level. Interpretive signage highlights ecological and cultural aspects along the route.
The 6-metre waterfall is reached from the Phyllis Reserve end and is the only waterfall inside Auckland city boundaries. A small plunge pool forms below, surrounded by ferns and moss. The feature draws visitors for its unexpected presence in a residential area.
Restoration work under Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters programme has improved habitat since the early 2010s. Native fish populations, including longfin eels (tuna), benefit from these efforts. The creek holds cultural significance for Waiohua and other mana whenua as a traditional travel and food-gathering route. The name Te Auaunga refers to swirling or flowing waters.
Birdlife includes tūī, korimako, riroriro and pīwakawaka. The linear track suits out-and-back walks or connections to other paths in the Te Auaunga network.
Walking the Track
The main walkway provides an easy stroll suitable for most fitness levels. Popular access is from Phyllis Reserve on Herdman Street, with the waterfall a short distance south. The path continues toward Great North Road and links with other reserves. Some sections experienced storm damage in recent years, with repairs ongoing in places.
Cycling the Waterview Path and Connections
The Waterview Path follows Te Auaunga Oakley Creek for approximately 3.5 km as a scenic shared or cycle route through green spaces. It connects suburbs including Avondale and Waterview and forms part of Auckland’s growing path network. Cyclists can combine it with nearby paths for longer rides. The route offers a flat, pleasant alternative to road cycling with creek views and native plantings.
Swimming and Water Activities at the Falls
The plunge pool below the waterfall attracts occasional informal use for cooling off or jumping. No official facilities or encouragement exist for swimming. Water quality in urban streams varies; visitors should check current conditions via LAWA or Auckland Council before entering the water. The site is primarily valued for viewing and walking rather than water-based recreation.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers on AllTrails and similar platforms highlight the surprise of finding a waterfall so close to the city and appreciate the shady bush setting with birdlife and stream sounds. Many describe it as a peaceful urban escape suitable for a short outing.
Reviewers note the path’s accessibility for casual walks and its value for families or after-work exercise. The combination of native planting and the waterfall feature receives frequent positive mentions, with some cyclists praising the connected paths for relaxed rides.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council Te Auaunga Oakley Creek Walkway page: official details on access, rules and the Te Auaunga stream network.
Bike Auckland Te Auaunga paths: information on cycling routes along the creek corridor.
Auckland Council Oakley Creek Path: details on connected paths in the network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Oakley Creek Walkway start?
Popular access points include Phyllis Reserve in Mt Albert and Great North Road entrances near Waterview.
How long is the main walkway section?
Main segments are around 3 km, with connections extending further through the Te Auaunga network.
Where is the waterfall located?
The 6-metre Oakley Creek Falls is reached shortly after entering from the Phyllis Reserve end.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
Is cycling permitted?
The Waterview Path and connected routes support cycling as part of Auckland’s path network.
Is swimming allowed at the waterfall?
Informal use occurs but is not officially supported; check water quality and exercise caution.
Is the track accessible for wheelchairs or prams?
No, steps and uneven sections make it unsuitable.
Are there facilities along the track?
Toilets are available at Phyllis Reserve; few facilities exist mid-track.
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