Last updated May 2026
Mauku Waterfall in the Mauku district south of Pukekohe is a small but pretty South Auckland waterfall — accessed via a short bush walk on the Mauku Falls Track. A less-known South Auckland destination that combines well with the Mauku-Patumāhoe area’s other rural attractions.
Practical Information
| Location | Mauku Falls Track, Mauku, south of Pukekohe |
| From central Auckland | ~50 km south — about 1 hr drive |
| Distance | ~1 km return; 15–20 min walk |
| Difficulty | Easy — short bush track |
| Setting | Native bush reserve in Franklin district |
| Parking | Free at track entrance |
| Cost | Free |
About Mauku Waterfall
Mauku Waterfall sits in the Mauku district — a rural pocket of South Auckland south of Pukekohe — within a small native bush reserve. The waterfall is modest in size but framed by mature native bush, giving it a peaceful feel disproportionate to its scale. The Mauku Falls Track from the road end is short and family-friendly.
The Walk
From the track entrance, the path follows the stream through native bush for about 10 minutes to the falls. Bridges cross the stream at a couple of points, and the walk is well-formed and signposted. Total time return is around 15–20 minutes, plus time at the falls for photos or a rest.
Combining With Pukekohe and Patumāhoe
The Mauku area sits in the Franklin district’s market-garden country — the wider Pukekohe Hill, Bombay and Patumāhoe area is one of New Zealand’s most important vegetable-growing regions. Combine the falls walk with stops at the Pukekohe town centre, the historic Pukekohe Hill (Te Hīhī o Mātaorā), or the Bombay Hills lookout for a fuller South Auckland day-out.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Find a walk — official council walks database covering Mauku and surrounding tracks.
AllTrails — Mauku area — GPS routes and walker reviews for the wider Mauku area.
Franklin Local Board — local board responsible for the Mauku area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Mauku Waterfall?
Mauku, south of Pukekohe in the Franklin district. About 1 hour drive from central Auckland.
How long is the walk?
About 15–20 minutes return on an easy bush track.
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes — short easy walk, family-friendly.
What else is in the area?
Pukekohe town centre, Pukekohe Hill, Bombay Hills lookout — Franklin’s market-garden country.
For more south Auckland waterfalls see Waterfalls in Auckland — including the larger Hunua Falls.
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