Last updated July 2026
Cossey-Massey Loop Track is a moderately challenging circular walk in the Hūnua Ranges Regional Park, southeast of Auckland, that links two of the park’s drinking water reservoirs through a mix of mature kauri forest, podocarp bush and open ridge. Starting from the Hunua Falls car park, the full loop covers approximately 8.3 km with around 380 metres of elevation gain and takes 3–4 hours to complete. The Hūnua Ranges are one of the few places near Auckland where kōkako can be heard, and kauri dieback boot cleaning is mandatory before entering the bush. The track passes through native forest with views of the Cossey and Massey reservoirs, which form part of Auckland’s water supply catchment.
Practical Information
| Location | Hunua Falls car park, Hūnua Ranges Regional Park (off Hunua Road, approximately 50 km southeast of Auckland CBD) |
| Distance | 8.3 km loop |
| Elevation gain | Approximately 380 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Time needed | 3–4 hours |
| Parking | Free car park at Hunua Falls |
| Facilities | Toilets at Hunua Falls car park; boot cleaning stations at bush entries |
| Cost | Free |
| Dogs | Not permitted on the Cossey-Massey Loop |
| Kauri dieback | Boot cleaning mandatory at all stations |
| Drive from Auckland CBD | Approximately 50 km; allow 55–65 minutes |
About the Track
The Cossey-Massey Loop is one of the more substantial walks accessible from the Hunua Falls trailhead, a location better known for the shorter waterfall walk that most day visitors complete. The loop extends well beyond the falls into the heart of the Hūnua Ranges, climbing through mature kauri and podocarp forest to reach the Cossey Reservoir, then continuing along bush-covered ridgelines to the Massey Reservoir before descending back to the car park.
The two reservoirs, Cossey and Massey, are part of Auckland’s drinking water catchment and are not open for swimming or boating. They are visible from the track at various points, providing open water views that contrast with the enclosed bush on either side of the ridgeline. The elevated sections of the loop offer glimpses back toward the coast on clear days.
Kauri trees are present throughout the loop, including some mature specimens in the mid-elevation sections of the track. The presence of kauri dieback disease in the Hūnua Ranges means that all visitors must clean their boots at the stations provided at bush entry points. This applies before entering and after leaving the bush. Dogs are not permitted on the Cossey-Massey Loop due to the risk of spreading contaminated soil.
The track surface is a mix of formed path, rooted bush trail and some muddy sections, particularly after rain on the descent. Good footwear is important, and the elevation gain makes trekking poles useful for less experienced walkers. The track is well-marked throughout, with signage at all key junctions.
Kōkako and Forest Birds
The Hūnua Ranges are one of the most significant sites for the North Island kōkako near Auckland. Kōkako, a blue-wattled forest bird with a haunting, organ-like call, were near extinction in the Hūnua Ranges in the 1990s before intensive pest control work began. Auckland Council and community groups have managed predators across the ranges for decades, and the kōkako population has grown substantially as a result, with recent censuses recording hundreds of breeding pairs. The birds are most vocal in the early morning, particularly in the kauri-podocarp forest sections of the Cossey-Massey Loop. Hearing a kōkako in full call is one of the distinctive wildlife experiences the Hūnua Ranges offer. Tūī, kererū, riroriro and tīeke are also present in the ranges.
What Visitors Often Say
AllTrails reviewers consistently rate the Cossey-Massey Loop as one of the best full-day walks within reach of Auckland. The combination of kauri forest, reservoir views and the possibility of hearing kōkako is noted as a step above most walks in the region. Several walkers mention hearing kōkako early in the morning on the upper sections of the track.
Google reviewers describe the loop as a satisfying half-day outing, harder than it looks in places, with the elevation gain on the return section catching some walkers off guard. Most recommend starting early to increase the chance of birdlife sightings and to avoid the Hunua Falls car park getting crowded later in the morning.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Hūnua Ranges Regional Park: official park page with track maps, facility information, kauri dieback protocols and details on walking routes.
Auckland Council — Hūnua kōkako recovery project: details on the kōkako conservation programme and population recovery in the ranges.
Department of Conservation — North Island kōkako: information on kōkako ecology, calls and conservation across New Zealand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Cossey-Massey Loop start?
The loop starts from the Hunua Falls car park on Hunua Road, approximately 50 kilometres southeast of Auckland CBD. Allow 55–65 minutes driving time.
How hard is the Cossey-Massey Loop Track?
The loop is rated moderate. It involves approximately 380 metres of elevation gain over the full circuit. The descents can be steep and slippery after rain. Good footwear is important.
How long does the Cossey-Massey Loop take?
Most walkers complete the loop in 3–4 hours. Allow extra time if you plan to stop for birdwatching or photos.
Are dogs allowed on the Cossey-Massey Loop?
No. Dogs are not permitted on the Cossey-Massey Loop.
Do I need to clean my boots before walking the Cossey-Massey Loop?
Yes. Boot cleaning at the provided stations is mandatory before entering and after leaving the bush. This is to help prevent the spread of kauri dieback disease.
Can I hear kōkako on the Cossey-Massey Loop?
Kōkako are present in the Hūnua Ranges and are most vocal in the early morning. There is no guarantee of hearing one, but the upper sections of the loop in the kauri-podocarp forest give the best chance.
Is the Cossey-Massey Loop free?
Yes. Entry to Hūnua Ranges Regional Park and the car park at Hunua Falls are both free.
Are the reservoirs open for swimming or boating?
No. The Cossey and Massey reservoirs are part of Auckland’s drinking water supply and are closed to public access for swimming or boating.
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