Walk Details

NZ Walking Routes > Northland > Whangarei > Whangarei Falls

Whangarei Falls

Location
From Auckland follow SH1 to Whangarei. Continue to drive north through the outskirts of the town. Turn right into Kensington Ave (signposted Tutukaka Coast and Whangarei Falls). You will pass a sports centre and playing fields on your left. Continue to follow the signs to Tutukaka and Whangarei Falls (approx 6km)
Description

The picturesque waterfall is 26.3m high and falls over basalt cliffs. The two viewing platforms above the waterfall give spectacular views of the falls.

Traditionally this area was a good eeling spot for the local Maori and around the turn of the century, it was known as a popular picnic spot from Whangarei. In the late 1920s Mr Archibald Clapham bought the property, reputedly to prevent the falls being developed as a commercial watermill. In 1946 a local businessmen's association raised the purchase price by public subscription and the property was vested as a public domain.

The Hatea River walk leads down from both AH Reed Memorial Kauri Park and Whangarei Falls and is an easy stroll along the river flats. The walk passes through open pastureland, where trees and structures are evidence of early settlers' activities and interests, and through lush bush at the foot of the falls. Track markers with the sign of the eel (tuna) guide visitors along the route and over the swing bridge.

Distance
1.0 km
Duration
0.3 hours
Level
Medium
Amenities
  • Birds
  • Historical
  • Lookouts
  • Picnics
  • Plant Life
Source
www.wdc.govt.nz
Discussion
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