Nihotupu Falls sits along the Lower Nihotupu Stream in the Waitākere Ranges — a less-visited waterfall reached via the Nihotupu tramline track through native bush. One of several waterfalls in the Nihotupu catchment, where Auckland’s historic water-supply infrastructure intersects with native forest.
Practical Information
| Location | Lower Nihotupu Stream, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park |
| From central Auckland | ~35 km — about 50 min drive via Scenic Drive |
| Access | Nihotupu tramline track and walking tracks |
| Distance | ~6 km return; 2 hours total |
| Difficulty | Moderate — bush walking on tramline grade |
| Setting | Native bush, Nihotupu water-supply catchment |
| Parking | Free at the Upper Nihotupu Dam car park |
| Dogs | Not permitted — Waitākere Ranges biosecurity |
| Cost | Free |
About Nihotupu Falls
Nihotupu Falls sits within the Nihotupu water-supply catchment in the Waitākere Ranges — an area combining native bush with the historic Auckland water-supply dams (Upper and Lower Nihotupu) that supplied early-20th-century Auckland. The falls are accessed via the old Nihotupu tramline track — a historic narrow-gauge tramline built to service the dam construction, since converted to a walking track that gently traces the contour through native bush.
The Walk Along the Tramline
From the Upper Nihotupu Dam car park, the tramline track gives a moderate-grade walk through mature native bush — a relatively easy walking surface thanks to the original tramline grading. The track passes through tunnels and over historic bridges, with the falls accessed via a side track off the main route. Allow about 2 hours for the full return walk. The combination of native bush and historic water-supply infrastructure makes this one of the more varied Waitākere walks.
Kauri-Dieback Hygiene
Standard Waitākere Ranges biosecurity applies — mandatory hygiene station use at all entries, stay on the formed track throughout, dogs not permitted. The Nihotupu catchment includes mature kauri stands.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Nihotupu Tramline Track — official walking-track page with current condition.
Watercare — Auckland Water Supply — background on the Nihotupu dams and their historic water-supply role.
AllTrails — Nihotupu Falls — GPS route and walker reviews.
Kauri Protection — kauri dieback information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the walk?
About 6 km return — 2 hours total along the tramline track.
What’s the tramline track?
A historic narrow-gauge tramline built to service the Nihotupu dam construction in the early 1900s, since converted to a walking track.
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes for older kids — the tramline grade is moderate and includes interesting historic features.
Where do I park?
Upper Nihotupu Dam car park, off Scenic Drive in the Waitākere Ranges.
Are dogs allowed?
No — not permitted in the Waitākere Ranges.
For more Waitākere waterfalls see Waterfalls in Auckland — including Great Nihotupu Falls in the same catchment.
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