Mokoroa Falls in Goldie Bush Scenic Reserve (north-west Auckland) is a less-visited twin waterfall reached via a quiet bush walk through mature native forest. The walk is longer than the headline Waitākere waterfalls (~3.5 km return, 1.5–2 hours), which keeps the crowds away and gives the experience a more remote feel.
Practical Information
| Location | Goldie Bush Scenic Reserve, near Bethells / Te Henga |
| From central Auckland | ~40 km — about 1 hr drive via Te Henga Road |
| Distance | ~3.5 km return; 1.5–2 hours total |
| Difficulty | Moderate — bush walking with some stream crossings |
| Setting | Mature native rainforest, Goldie Bush Scenic Reserve |
| Falls | Twin waterfalls — two parallel drops on the Mokoroa Stream |
| Parking | Free at Constable Road car park |
| Dogs | Not permitted — Waitākere/Goldie Bush biosecurity |
| Cost | Free |
About Mokoroa Falls
Mokoroa Falls sits within Goldie Bush Scenic Reserve — a less-visited DOC reserve adjacent to the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park near Bethells / Te Henga. The walk in is one of the more peaceful Auckland waterfall walks; the lower visitor numbers mean you’ll often have the falls to yourself. The “twin” name comes from the two parallel drops on the Mokoroa Stream — a distinctive feature compared with the single-drop waterfalls more common in the region.
The Walk
From the Constable Road car park, the track descends through mature kauri-podocarp forest — kauri, rimu, totara and ferns dominate the canopy. The track crosses the Mokoroa Stream at several points; depending on conditions, the crossings may involve wet feet. After about 1 hour the track reaches the twin falls viewpoint. The return climb back to the car park is the most strenuous part. Allow 1.5–2 hours total; longer if you’re stopping at the falls for photography or a picnic.
Kauri-Dieback Hygiene
Goldie Bush Scenic Reserve adjoins the Waitākere Ranges and shares the same kauri-dieback concerns. Mandatory hygiene station use applies at the trailhead — clean all soil from boot soles thoroughly, then spray with the disinfectant provided. Stay on the formed track throughout; never step off into kauri root zones. Dogs are not permitted in the reserve.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Goldie Bush Scenic Reserve — official DOC information for the reserve and Mokoroa Falls track.
AllTrails — Mokoroa Falls Track — GPS route, photos and recent walker reviews.
Kauri Protection — kauri dieback information.
Auckland NZ — Goldie Bush Scenic Reserve — official visitor information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the walk?
3.5 km return — about 1.5–2 hours total.
How hard is the track?
Moderate — bush walking with some stream crossings. Allow time for the return climb.
Why “twin” falls?
Two parallel drops on the Mokoroa Stream create the distinctive twin shape.
Where do I park?
Free Constable Road car park at the trailhead.
Are dogs allowed?
No — not permitted in Goldie Bush Scenic Reserve.
Can I combine it with Bethells Beach?
Yes — both are accessed via Te Henga Road, with Bethells about 10 minutes’ drive further.
For more Waitākere area waterfalls see Waterfalls in Auckland — including the nearby Wainamu Falls.
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