Everything You Need to Know About Whangarei Falls
The picturesque Whangarei waterfall is a drawcard all year round—for families, couples, and those travelling solo—and this goes for locals as well as tourists. So if you’re planning your first visit there and you’re not quite sure what to expect, read on to find out everything you need to know.
Quick Facts:
- Height: 26 metres
- Walk Duration: 20-30 minutes (loop track)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Distance from Town: 10 minutes drive
- Facilities: Toilets, picnic tables, free car park
Location & How to Get to Whangarei Falls
Where is Whangarei Falls?
Otuihau/Whangarei Falls can be found just a ten-minute drive from town and from our Whangarei motel.
Address: 6 Ngunguru Road, Tikipunga, Whangarei
Directions from Bella Vista Whangarei
The fastest route from Bella Vista Whangarei is to travel north up State Highway One and then turn right onto Puna Rere Drive, which eventually becomes Twin Coast Discovery Highway. After about four or five minutes drive, you'll turn right onto Boundary Road and then left into the Whangarei Falls main car park.
Drive Time: Approximately 10 minutes from central Whangarei
Parking: Free car park on site with ample spaces
The History of Whangarei Falls
Traditional Māori Significance
Whangarei Falls was traditionally a productive eeling spot for local Māori and was known as an area for healing. The site held important cultural and practical significance for the indigenous people of the region.
From Private to Public Land
The falls became private property in the late 1920s after Mr Archibald Clapham bought the property—apparently as a preventative measure to stop the area becoming a commercial watermill. The scenic Whangarei waterfall then became public domain in 1946, allowing everyone to enjoy this natural treasure.
Natural Features of Whangarei Falls
It’s not the tallest Whangarei waterfall, but it comes pretty close at 26 metres high. The traditional ‘curtain’ waterfall spills from the Hatea River, which eventually empties into the Whangarei Harbour. Whangarei Falls is surrounded by lush New Zealand native bush and attracts a variety of birdlife including the Kukupa/Native Wood Pigeon,Tui and Riroriro/Grey Warbler.
Walking Tracks & Accessibility
Top Viewing Platform
From the car park at the entrance to the Whangarei Falls, you'll only need to walk a few minutes before reaching the first viewing platform at the top of the waterfall. This makes it ideal if you're looking for scenic walking tracks in Whangarei that are quick and easy to navigate.
Base of the Falls
The base of the waterfall is just a ten-minute walk from the car park, offering a different perspective and the full impact of the 26-metre cascade.
Loop Track
You can complete the loop that stretches around the falls within 20-30 minutes. The track takes you through native bush with multiple viewpoints of the waterfall.
Important Note: There is a flight of steps on the walk, so while the loop isn't difficult, unfortunately, it's not suitable for prams or wheelchairs.
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate - suitable for most fitness levels and ages
Swimming
Plenty of people swim at Whangarei Falls, but it’s not always a great idea! It can be contaminated by livestock and wildfowl from time to time, so keep an eye out for swimming warnings, questionable smells, and discoloured water.
Recommendation: Check current water quality conditions before swimming, especially after heavy rainfall.
Facilities
There are picnic tables on toilets on site, so why not bring your lunch and make a few hours of it?! There’s nothing like enjoying refreshments in good company alongside this majestic Whangarei waterfall.
Nearby attractions
From Whangarei Falls, you’ve got easy access to AH Reed Kauri Park, home to some of the best walking tracks in Whangarei. The easy walk between the Park and the waterfall follows the Hatea River. There are some short steep climbs, but the track is suitable for all ages and it’s a great place to get some exercise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Whangarei Falls suitable for children? Yes! The upper viewing platform is very accessible, and the loop track is suitable for children. However, there are steps and uneven surfaces, so supervision is important.
How long is the walk to Whangarei Falls? The first viewing platform is just a few minutes from the car park. The complete loop track takes 20-30 minutes at a leisurely pace.
Is there an entrance fee? No, Whangarei Falls is free to visit.
Can I bring my dog? Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a lead at all times. Please clean up after your pet.
What's the best time of day to visit? Early morning (7-9 AM) offers the best light for photography and fewer crowds. Late afternoon is also lovely for a peaceful visit.
Is the waterfall flowing all year? Yes, Whangarei Falls flows year-round, though water volume varies with rainfall. Winter typically offers the most dramatic flow.
Getting to Whangarei Falls from Bella Vista
Staying at Bella Vista Whangarei puts you in the perfect location to explore Whangarei Falls and other natural attractions in the region. Our central location means you're never far from the area's best experiences.
Book your Whangarei accommodation and start planning your waterfall adventure today.