Hunua Falls in the Hunua Ranges Regional Park is one of Auckland’s most impressive accessible waterfalls — a 30 m drop over a basalt cliff into a large deep pool, just a few minutes’ walk from the Hunua Falls car park. Family-friendly access, dramatic setting, and the starting point for several longer tramping options in the Hunua Ranges.
Practical Information
| Location | Hunua Falls car park, Falls Road, Hunua Ranges Regional Park |
| From central Auckland | ~55 km south — about 1 hr drive |
| Distance | Around 200 m walk — under 5 minutes from car park to falls viewing platform |
| Difficulty | Very easy — short paved path |
| Falls height | ~30 m drop over basalt cliff |
| Swimming | Pool at base — historically popular, currently restricted (check Auckland Council) |
| Wider walks | Cossey-Massey Loop and other Hunua tramps start from same car park |
| Facilities | Toilets, picnic areas at the car park |
| Parking | Free at Hunua Falls car park |
| Dogs | Not permitted — Hunua Ranges biosecurity |
| Cost | Free |
About the Falls
Hunua Falls drops about 30 m over a basalt cliff in the Wairoa River catchment — the river having carved out the cliff face over thousands of years. The falls are framed by mature native forest with ferns and tree ferns lining the surrounding cliffs. The pool at the base is large and deep — historically a popular swimming spot, though access has been restricted at various times due to incidents and safety concerns. Check Auckland Council’s current rules before swimming.
Combining With Hunua Ranges Walks
The Hunua Falls car park is also the starting point for several longer tramping options in the Hunua Ranges Regional Park. The Cossey-Massey Loop Track (8.3 km, ~3 hours) is the standout longer tramp — climbing onto the Massey Ridge for views over the Auckland reservoirs. Shorter walks include the Hunua Falls Lookout Track for a different angle on the falls, plus several connecting tracks into the wider park. The car park has toilets and picnic areas suitable for family visits.
Kauri-Dieback Hygiene
The Hunua Ranges hold significant kauri stands and have been affected by kauri dieback (Phytophthora agathidicida). Several tracks were closed or restricted at various times 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 are not 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 closures, walking tracks and visitor information.
Auckland Council — Hunua Falls Track — short track to the falls viewing platform.
AllTrails — Hunua Falls — GPS route and recent walker reviews.
Kauri Protection — kauri dieback information and hygiene station rationale.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the walk to the falls?
Under 5 minutes from the car park — about 200 m on a paved path to the main viewing platform.
Can I swim at Hunua Falls?
Historically popular but currently restricted due to safety incidents — check Auckland Council current rules before swimming.
Where do I park?
Hunua Falls car park, end of Falls Road, Hunua Ranges Regional Park.
Are dogs allowed?
No — dogs are not permitted in the Hunua Ranges for kauri-dieback biosecurity reasons.
Can I combine it with longer walks?
Yes — the Cossey-Massey Loop (8.3 km, ~3 hours) and other Hunua tramps start from the same car park.
Are there facilities?
Yes — toilets and picnic areas at the car park.
For more Auckland waterfalls see Waterfalls in Auckland — and the longer Cossey-Massey Loop Track from the same trailhead.