Hunua: Waterfalls and nature in Hūnua Ranges Regional Park

A 30 m-high waterfall, forest trails and an expansive regional park define Hunua. Hunua Ranges Regional Park covers more than 14,000 hectares, where you can choose between short trails to Hunua Falls and longer circuits through the bush. The route you’re interested in is a practical consideration when choosing Hunua as a destination and looking for a holiday rental for your stay.

Waterfall and unique nature

Hūnua Falls Volcanic Neck is a geologically significant site of regional importance. Around the pool and in the spray zone of Hūnua Falls, vegetation including sedge grassland grows. It has high biodiversity value; the ecosystem is classified as nationally critical in the region. Native birds are also part of the park’s character: species that live there include tūī, pīwakawaka (fantail) and kererū.

The Hunua Falls Path leads through lush forest to the foot of the falls in about 15 minutes. It is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. The Hunua Falls Upper Lookout Walk is 30 minutes, or 800 m, long and suitable for strollers. The two trails offer different ways to experience Hunua Falls; the details on duration, distance and stroller accessibility apply to each named trail respectively.

Trails and activities in the regional park

Those planning a longer hike can take the Massey Cossey Loop Track, a little over 8 km long, with a stated walking time of about 3 to 4 hours. Along the way, there are views of native bush, Hunua Falls and Cossey Dam. Another route option is the Suspension Bridge Loop: it is 90 minutes, or 3.5 km, long, crosses Wairoa Stream and leads to a lookout with views of Wairoa Reservoir. The loop also includes a scenic picnic area and public toilets.

There are also various options on two wheels: the park has five cycling routes, including an easy valley loop and the more challenging Mangatāwhiri Challenge Track. Horse-riding trails follow a gravel road through Lower Mangatāwhiri Valley, across pasture and through bush, and along Mangatāwhiri River. If you’d rather spend time by the water, there are swimming spots in numerous streams and rivers. Trout fishing is possible at Mangatangi and at the dam wall of Mangatāwhiri Reservoir; you’ll need a Fish and Game Council licence.

Choosing Hunua as a destination

The regional park is accessible by car via State Highway 1 and has free parking. The different trail lengths and activities may be important when planning your trip: the short walk to the waterfall, the lookout loop and the longer hike each offer a different focus.

Hunua is also home to Kokako Lodge, a camp with 82 beds that is available to schools and the general public. Lodge activities include high ropes, archery, raft building and orienteering. These activities complement the regional park’s trails and nature experiences with a programme of their own.

Discover more destinations

Also discover Clarks Beach, Waiuku, Big Omaha, Mangere, Waiwera, Helensville, Stanmore Bay and Devonport.

For the main travel overview: Auckland.