Last updated July 2026
Thorps Quarry Waterfall (also known as Clevedon Waterfall or the old Thorp’s Quarry waterfall) is a 10-metre segmented cascade in Te Nikau Pā / Clevedon Scenic Reserve, south-east of Auckland. The short easy walk through native bush leads to a wetland area with a small pond at the base, boardwalk, and picnic seating. The reserve offers parking, toilets, fitness equipment, and longer summit tracks with views over the Hunua Ranges and Hauraki Gulf. It is a popular local spot for a quick outing or picnic, best after rain for stronger flow.
Practical Information
| Location | Te Nikau Pā / Clevedon Scenic Reserve, 75R Thorps Quarry Road, Clevedon, Auckland |
| From central Auckland | Approximately 30–40 minutes’ drive (around 35 km via SH1 and local roads) |
| Walk to waterfall | Easy 5–10 minutes one way (about 20 minutes return) |
| Difficulty (waterfall) | Easy; some stairs, not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers |
| Longer tracks | Summit walkway approx. 1.1 km one way with steps; loops around 2–3 km, 1–1.5 hours, moderate |
| Facilities | Car park, public toilets, picnic tables/seating, fitness equipment, playground area |
| Dogs | On leash at all times |
| Cost | Free |
| Best time | After decent rain for waterfall flow; weekends can be busy |
About Thorps Quarry Waterfall and Clevedon Scenic Reserve
Te Nikau Pā, also known as Clevedon Scenic Reserve, covers about 100 hectares of native bush rising above the Wairoa River. The reserve features old kauri trees, bird life, and views toward the Hunua Ranges and Hauraki Gulf. Access is from the end of Thorps Quarry Road, where a sealed road leads to a car park that can fill on weekends.
The waterfall sits at the old Thorp’s Quarry site. A small cascade flows down the quarry face for much of the year into a pond at the base before continuing through wetlands. Auckland Council highlights an easy five-minute walk to this area, which includes a boardwalk and seating ideal for picnics. The waterfall is permanent but can have low flow in dry periods.
The reserve was gazetted for scenic purposes in 1930. It includes fitness equipment, open picnic spaces, and well-constructed walking paths. Dogs are permitted on leash. The site is smokefree, with standard park rules on alcohol, waste, and fires.
Visitors come for the short waterfall walk, picnics, and longer climbs. The setting combines rural Clevedon farmland approaches with regenerating bush, making it a convenient escape from the city.
Walking to the Waterfall
From the car park, follow the easy walking path toward Old Thorp’s Quarry. Cross the river via a footbridge, then follow the signs left at the junction and right at the next. The track follows a stream to the wetlands and boardwalk area. The waterfall is at the end of the clearing, with picnic tables nearby.
The return is the same way, taking about 20 minutes total for most people. Due to stairs, it is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. The path is well maintained and suitable for families seeking a short outing. Flow is better after rain; in dry weather the cascade may be reduced to a trickle.
Longer Tracks and Summit Views
Beyond the quarry, the summit walkway starts at the car park and climbs approximately 1.1 km to a lookout with steps. It is more challenging and suited to those with reasonable fitness. Return the same way or continue for a slightly longer 1.2 km option. Full loops covering the reserve and quarry can take 1–1.5 hours with notable elevation gain from stairs.
These tracks offer bush walking, birdlife, and panoramic views. They can feel steeper than the distance suggests due to consistent steps. After rain, dirt sections may become slippery. Bring water, especially in warmer weather.
Picnicking, Facilities and Practical Tips
The waterfall and wetland area is promoted as a picnic spot with boardwalk and seating. The main reserve has additional picnic areas, toilets, fitness equipment, and a playground. Parking is available at the end of Thorps Quarry Road; overflow parking on Clevedon Road is sometimes needed on busy days, adding a short walk.
The small pond at the waterfall base has clear water and is occasionally used by visitors for a dip when conditions allow. It is a modest natural pool rather than a large swimming hole. Avoid after heavy rain due to possible poor water quality or stronger flow, and always assess conditions on site. No official swimming facilities or monitoring specific to this pond are highlighted by council.
Dogs must stay on leash. The reserve is free to enter. Check the Auckland Council park page for any temporary closures or alerts before visiting.
Combining with Clevedon and Nearby Attractions
Clevedon village is a short drive away and features cafes, shops, and the Clevedon Village Farmers Market on Sundays (typically 8 am to 1 pm, with some holiday exceptions). The rural drive through farmland is pleasant.
Hunua Falls is nearby (around 15–20 minutes’ drive) and offers a larger waterfall with easy access. The wider Hunua Ranges Regional Park provides more extensive walking. For a coastal extension, Maraetai Beach and the Pohutukawa Coast are accessible via Maraetai Road. Ardmore Airport is also close for those interested in aviation.
A full day can easily combine the short waterfall walk or summit climb with village stops, markets, or another waterfall.
What Visitors Often Say
Many appreciate the short, easy walk to the pretty waterfall and wetland as a relaxed family or picnic outing with boardwalk seating and clear water. The reserve feels well maintained with good facilities, and the quarry section works well as a quick standalone visit or warm-up.
Those doing the longer summit tracks note the steady stairs and climb make it more of a workout than expected for the distance, but reward with views. Weekends and summer can be busier near the car park and quarry; after rain improves waterfall flow but can make tracks slippery. Dogs on leash are commonly taken, and water is recommended for the climbs.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council – Te Nikau Pā / Clevedon Scenic Reserve: Official park details, facilities, dog rules, summit walkway description, and any current alerts.
Waterfalls.co.nz – Thorps Quarry Waterfall: Practical driving and walking directions, height, GPS, and access notes from an enthusiast guide.
AllTrails – Thorps Quarry: Community trail maps, recent reviews, and photos of the waterfall and reserve tracks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Thorps Quarry Waterfall?
It is in Te Nikau Pā / Clevedon Scenic Reserve at 75R Thorps Quarry Road, Clevedon, about 30–40 minutes’ drive south-east of central Auckland.
How long is the walk to the waterfall?
An easy 5–10 minutes one way (around 20 minutes return) from the car park, following signs to Old Thorp’s Quarry after the footbridge.
Can you swim at Thorps Quarry Waterfall?
There is a small pond at the base that some visitors use when conditions allow. It is modest in size; assess water quality and flow yourself, and avoid after heavy rain.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs must be on a leash at all times in the reserve.
Is it free and are there facilities?
Entry and parking are free. There are toilets, picnic tables, fitness equipment, and a playground area.
Is the track wheelchair accessible?
No. Stairs on the path to the waterfall and summit make it unsuitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
When is the best time to visit?
After rain for better waterfall flow. Weekends can be busier; the car park may fill, so arrive early or park nearby and walk in.
What else can I do nearby?
Visit Clevedon village and its Sunday farmers market, Hunua Falls, the Hunua Ranges, or continue to Maraetai Beach on the Pohutukawa Coast.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.