Hunua Falls Auckland
A stunning 30-meter waterfall near Auckland, offering scenic walks, picnic spots, and a peaceful escape into nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Hunua Falls Auckland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 30-meter waterfall near Auckland, offering scenic walks, picnic spots, and a peaceful escape into nature.
"An awesome spot, bigger than usual NZ waterfalls and super impressive, even though the water was brown from the rain."
🚗 Car is Essential
Hunua Falls is about a 45-50 min drive from Auckland CBD. Hiring a car is recommended for easy access.
⚠️ Swim with Caution
Swimming in the waterfall lake is dangerous. Stick to designated safe areas and heed all warning signs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Hunua Falls
Main viewing area
A stunning 30-meter plunge waterfall surrounded by lush native bush. A true natural wonder near Auckland.
Scenic Walking Tracks
Various trailheads
Explore short, easy walks or longer, more challenging loops through the Hunua Ranges Regional Park.
Picnic Spots with a View
Designated picnic areas
Enjoy a meal surrounded by nature's beauty, with many spots offering views of the falls or surrounding forest.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Safety First at Hunua Falls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car is Essential
Hunua Falls is about a 45-50 min drive from Auckland CBD. Hiring a car is recommended for easy access.
⚠️ Swim with Caution
Swimming in the waterfall lake is dangerous. Stick to designated safe areas and heed all warning signs.
🥾 Easy Access Walks
Short, 20-minute walks to the falls are available, perfect for a quick visit or with young children.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are great picnic spots. Bring your own food and enjoy a meal with a view.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car is Essential
Hunua Falls is about a 45-50 min drive from Auckland CBD. Hiring a car is recommended for easy access.
⚠️ Swim with Caution
Swimming in the waterfall lake is dangerous. Stick to designated safe areas and heed all warning signs.
🥾 Easy Access Walks
Short, 20-minute walks to the falls are available, perfect for a quick visit or with young children.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are great picnic spots. Bring your own food and enjoy a meal with a view.
☀️ Visit on a Sunny Day
The falls are impressive year-round, but a sunny day enhances the picnic and scenic experience. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hunua Falls for its impressive natural beauty and proximity to Auckland, making it a highly recommended day trip. Many enjoy the easy access to the waterfall and the peaceful atmosphere, though some note the water can be brown after rain. The park is well-maintained with clean facilities and good picnic spots.
"Just visited Hunua Falls with family and a few friends, what an awesome spot! It’s a bigger than usual NZ waterfalls and super impressive, even though the water was brown from the rain the day before. Still, the whole place has a really peaceful vibe and it’s amazing how close it is to Auckland.
Would’ve been perfect if the weather was sunny and dry we were hanging out for a picnic right next to the falls! But even with the damp ground, there were some great seating areas around for picnics or just chilling out. Definitely worth the short drive. Loved it, and will be back for sure (hopefully with sunshine next time!)"
Asiri Dalugoda
"Such a beautiful spot 🌿💦 Just a short walk from the car park and you’re greeted with this stunning waterfall. Kids loved running around the open space and watching the water crash down. Perfect for a little picnic or just to take in the fresh air. Definitely worth the trip! 😍"
Nirmal Gyanwali
"A peaceful spot, perfect for a relaxing day out. The falls is stunning, and the area is well-maintained and can have a dip. Visited on perfect sunny day. Can walk up to the bottom of the fall. The walk up to the upper lookout is easy and has breathtaking views. If you look out carefully, you’ll see a Waka Hotel which is lovely and quite interesting. Definitely recommend to anyone looking for a scenic getaway. Children friendly."
Roshika Tennakoon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hunua Falls is located in the Hunua Ranges Regional Park, approximately a 45-50 minute drive from Auckland CBD. Hiring a car is the most convenient way to reach the falls, as public transport options are limited.
Yes, there is onsite parking available. However, it can get busy on weekends, so you might need to park further down the drive and walk. 
Public transport to Hunua Falls is not readily available. It is best to have your own vehicle or arrange private transport.
The main path to the falls is generally easy to navigate. For longer trails, a pram might be challenging depending on the terrain.
The driving distance is about 45-50 minutes from Auckland CBD, making it an accessible day trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Hunua Falls and the Hunua Ranges Regional Park is free.
Hunua Falls and the surrounding park are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's always a good idea to check Auckland Council's website for any specific park alerts or closures.
No, tickets are not required as entry is free. You can visit anytime during park hours.
While entry is free, always be mindful of safety warnings, especially regarding swimming in the falls. Stick to marked trails and respect the natural environment.
It is generally recommended to visit Hunua Falls during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery. Park access may be restricted after dark.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the 30-meter waterfall, enjoy short walks through native bush, have a picnic, and take photos. Longer hiking trails are also available.
Swimming directly in the waterfall lake is extremely dangerous and not recommended due to strong currents and hidden hazards.
There are various tracks, including a short 20-minute walk to the falls and longer loops like the Cossey/Massey Loop (3+ hours). Difficulty ranges from easy to intermediate.
Yes, Hunua Falls offers beautiful photographic opportunities with its impressive waterfall and lush surroundings.
Yes, clean toilet facilities are available at Hunua Falls, which are noted as being well-maintained. [^Review]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants directly at Hunua Falls. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic.
Absolutely! Hunua Falls has designated picnic areas, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal outdoors.
The nearest shops and eateries will be in the towns closer to Auckland. It's best to stock up on supplies before you head to the falls.
There are no public water fountains. It's advisable to bring plenty of drinking water with you, especially if you plan on hiking.
While there are picnic tables, information on barbecue facilities is not widely available. It's best to check with Auckland Council or bring a portable grill if permitted.
📸 📸 Photography
The base of the falls offers dramatic shots, while the upper lookout provides panoramic views of the falls and surrounding landscape.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the beauty of the falls.
No, a smartphone camera is sufficient to capture the beauty of Hunua Falls. However, a DSLR or mirrorless camera can offer more creative control.
Drone usage is subject to Auckland Council regulations and park rules. It's essential to check current bylaws before flying a drone in the park.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the waterfall, close-ups of the water's texture, and scenic views of the native bush.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
[^Review]There are also open spaces for children to run around and designated picnic areas, making it ideal for a family picnic. While swimming in the falls is dangerous, the overall environment is safe and engaging for children to explore the natural surroundings. Remember to supervise children closely, especially near water. [^Review]
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
These trails provide opportunities to discover diverse flora and fauna, enjoy scenic viewpoints, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the bush. The park is a great place for birdwatching and experiencing the natural beauty of the region.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
+1Experiment with different angles, from the base of the falls to the upper lookout, and consider the time of day for optimal lighting. The natural beauty provides a fantastic backdrop for portraits or landscape photography. [^Review]
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails of Hunua Ranges
+1For those seeking a more immersive experience, longer loop tracks are available. The Cossey/Massey Loop is a popular choice, offering a 3+ hour trek through native forest. These longer hikes can be more challenging, with varied terrain, but reward visitors with deeper exploration of the park's natural beauty. Always wear appropriate footwear and carry water, especially for longer walks.
Recent upgrades, like the new bridge, have improved access and safety within the park, making it easier for visitors to explore the network of trails. Whether you're looking for a brief stroll or a full day's hike, the Hunua Ranges offer a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature.
The Dangers of Swimming at Hunua Falls
The primary hazard is the powerful undertow and currents that can drag swimmers into hidden pockets behind the rocks. These underwater cavities are incredibly dangerous, and many who have been caught have never been recovered. Signs at the falls explicitly warn visitors about these dangers, emphasizing that jumping or swimming is not safe.
Instead of risking your safety, visitors are encouraged to enjoy the falls from the designated viewing areas. The beauty of Hunua Falls can be fully appreciated without entering the hazardous water. For those looking to cool off, consider visiting a safe swimming spot elsewhere in the region.
Hunua Falls: A Photographer's Paradise
+1Key photographic opportunities include capturing the sheer power of the water cascading down, the mist rising from the plunge pool, and the vibrant green of the surrounding flora. The upper lookout provides a broader perspective, allowing for panoramic shots of the falls and the wider Hunua Ranges. [^Review]
For the best results, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and more flattering. While a smartphone can capture the essence, a camera with manual controls will allow for creative adjustments to shutter speed, capturing the water's movement as a silky smooth flow or a sharp, dynamic splash.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit