Hunua Falls – Most beautiful waterfall near Auckland

The Hunua Falls is one of the most popular sights near Auckland. This 30 meter high waterfall is located in the Hunua Ranges Regional Park, about 45 minutes drive from the city. Have you, just like us, just picked up your car in Auckland (or are you on your way to Auckland) and want to see a beautiful waterfall along the way? Then definitely make a stop here!

Within 5 Minutes You’re at the Waterfall

The Hunua Falls Trail is a short, easy-to-walk trail of less than 5 minutes. The path starts at the parking lot and here you immediately cross the river that comes from the Hunua Falls.

Clean Your Shoes

Before you walk to the waterfall, you must clean your shoes. To prevent the spread of kauri dieback, there are special shoe cleaning stations at the park entrance. You are encouraged to clean your shoes before and after your visit. In New Zealand we encountered this a total of 2 times.

View the Waterfall from 3 Spots

The endpoint of the short walk is a breathtaking view of the Hunua Falls. You first approach it from the right. You can see this view at the top of this blog. Then you can also get closer. You can even get so close that you get wet from it! In total you can view the waterfall from 3 different angles.

If you have more time, you can also do a longer walk of about 3 hours. This walk takes you through the entire Hunua Ranges Regional Park. You pass different waterfalls, lakes and forests. We did not do this one.

Here are some more interesting facts about the Hunua Falls:

• The waterfall is about 30 meters high.
• The Hunua Falls were formed by the erosion of the Wairoa River. The river has carved its way through the limestone over time, creating the waterfall.
• The waterfall is fed by the Wairoa River.
• The waterfall is located in the Hunua Ranges Regional Park.
• The waterfall can be visited all year round. It is busiest in summer.

Spacious Parking Lot with Toilets

The parking lot at Hunua Falls is spacious and free. It is about 20 minutes drive from the highway. There are toilets available and also picnic tables. We were accompanied by a large group of ducks here. So if you have lunch here, you probably won’t be eating alone.

Tip: is your next stop Hobbiton or Auckland? Read my blog about a day in Hobbiton or discover the best restaurants in Auckland according to a local. And if you’re heading east? Then Cathedral Cove is your stopover!