The Cossey-Massey Loop Track in the Hunua Ranges Regional Park is an 8.3 km loop tramping route taking approximately 3 hours, with rocky outcrops, steep climbing sections and sensational ridge-top views across the southern Auckland reservoirs and forest. It’s one of the longer day-tramps in the Hunua Ranges and best suited to experienced walkers comfortable on rough tramping terrain.
Practical Information
| Distance | 8.3 km loop |
| Duration | ~3 hours moderate pace |
| Difficulty | Experienced trampers — rocky outcrops, steep sections |
| Setting | Hunua Ranges Regional Park, southern Auckland |
| Views | Ridge-top panoramas over Cossey, Mangatāwhiri and Wairoa reservoirs |
| Start / car park | Hunua Falls car park (Falls Road, Hunua) |
| From central Auckland | ~55 km — about 1 hr drive |
| Dogs | Not permitted — kauri-dieback and conservation area |
| Cost | Free |
About the Track
The Cossey-Massey Loop is the standout longer tramp in the Hunua Ranges — a circuit that climbs from the Hunua Falls car park up onto the Massey Ridge, traverses high ground with views over the Watercare reservoirs that supply Auckland’s drinking water, then descends back via the Cossey Creek track. The terrain alternates between tall mature forest in the gullies and exposed manuka/rocky outcrop sections on the ridge.
The Loop in Order
Most walkers head anti-clockwise — up the Massey Track first to gain the ridge while legs are fresh, traverse along the tops, then descend Cossey Creek for a gentler return past Cossey Reservoir. The hardest section is the initial climb out of the Hunua Falls area — sustained and rough underfoot. Once on the ridge the going eases, with shorter ups and downs and the standout views. Carry plenty of water — the loop has no reliable water source, and the ridge sections are exposed to sun in summer.
Kauri-Dieback Hygiene
The Hunua Ranges hold some of the largest kauri stands in the Auckland region. Phytophthora agathidicida (kauri dieback) is endemic in the park, and several tracks have been closed or upgraded over the past decade in response. Use the cleaning stations at every park entry — scrub all soil from boot soles, then spray with the disinfectant provided. Stay on the formed track throughout; do not cut corners or step off-track in kauri root zones. Dogs aren’t permitted anywhere in the Hunua Ranges for the same biosecurity reason.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Hunua Ranges Regional Park — official park page with current track status, closures and visitor information.
Auckland Council — Cossey-Massey Loop Track — track-specific page with distance, time and grade.
AllTrails — Cossey-Massey Loop — GPS-mapped route with hundreds of recent tramper reviews and condition reports.
Kauri Protection — background on kauri dieback, the cleaning stations and why staying on track matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Cossey-Massey Loop?
8.3 km loop, taking approximately 3 hours at a moderate pace.
Is it suitable for beginner walkers?
No — recommended for experienced trampers due to rocky outcrops, steep sections and exposed ridge.
Where do I park?
The Hunua Falls car park (Falls Road, Hunua) is the standard trailhead and worth a visit to the falls itself either before or after the loop.
Are dogs allowed?
No — dogs are not permitted anywhere in the Hunua Ranges, for kauri-dieback hygiene and conservation reasons.
Is there water along the way?
No reliable drinking water on the loop. Carry at least 1.5–2 L per person, more in summer.
What’s the best direction?
Most walkers go anti-clockwise — Massey Track up first while legs are fresh, then Cossey Creek down as a gentler return.
For more tramping in southern Auckland see Walks in Auckland — including the nearby Hunua Falls short walk from the same car park.