Cossey-Massey Loop Track is a moderately challenging circular walk in the Hunua 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 8.3–9 kilometres with approximately 380 metres of elevation gain and takes 3–4 hours to complete. The Hunua 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.
Practical Information
| Location | Hunua Falls car park, Hunua Ranges Regional Park (off Hunua Road, approximately 50 km southeast of Auckland CBD) |
| Distance | 8.3–9 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 rules |
| 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 Hunua 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 Hunua 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 Hunua Ranges are one of the most significant sites for the North Island kōkako (Callaeas wilsoni) near Auckland. Kōkako — a blue-wattled forest bird with a haunting, organ-like call — were near-extinction in the Hunua 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. 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 Hunua Ranges offer — unlike anything else found close to Auckland. Tūī, kererū (NZ wood pigeon), riroriro (grey warbler) and tīeke (North Island saddleback) are also present in the ranges.
What Visitors 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 — Hunua Ranges Regional Park — official park page with track maps, facility information, kauri dieback protocols and details on the various walking routes accessible from the Hunua Falls trailhead.
AllTrails — Cossey-Massey Loop — trail map, elevation profile, user photos and current track condition reviews from walkers who have recently completed the route.
DOC — North Island Kōkako — Department of Conservation page on the North Island kōkako, including its ecology, call characteristics and conservation recovery in areas like the Hunua Ranges.
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 due to kauri dieback disease management rules.
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 Hunua Ranges and are most vocal in the early morning. There is no guarantee of a sighting or hearing, 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 Hunua Ranges Regional Park and the car park at Hunua Falls are both free.
For more walks across Auckland, see the full guide to walking tracks in Auckland. The summit walk at Maungawhau / Mount Eden is a short but rewarding contrast — a quick volcanic cone climb with panoramic city and harbour views.