Whangārei Falls — Attraction in North Island

“Whangārei Falls: Loud, Beautiful, and Doesn’t Judge You”

Whangārei Falls — the perfect spot where nature flexes its beauty without making you hike 10km for it.

The walk down to the base is just around 10 minutes (unless you stop every 3 steps for photos like I did). Easy path, beautiful scenery, and you’ll hear the falls before you even see them — very dramatic entrance.

Plenty of parking and toilets are on-site. Not the cleanest loos in the universe, but hey, they get the job done. The place is easy to find, with clear signs and no mountain goat-level climbs involved.

The waterfall itself? Stunning. Tall, powerful, and surprisingly calming. Didn’t see anyone swimming — so either it’s not allowed or Kiwis just know better. Either way, I stayed dry and admired the view like a responsible adult.

"Logan was here… caught feelings,...

The falls were originally known as Otuihau, and have been a common picnic spot since at least the 1890s

Otuihau Whangārei Falls is a picturesque 26.3 metre-high waterfall, cascading over basalt cliffs

An easy, circular, surfaced walk around the falls, including a flight of steps.

The main track is a 3 km loop walk which takes you through areas of regenerating kauri forest.

Multiple picnic tables, seating, and viewing spots. There may be some known and potential hazards that users should be aware of and avoid.

Dogs are allowed on leash. However, dogs are prohibited in the A H Reed Memorial Park's main reserve.

Parking

There is a public car park off Boundary Road.

Must visit here highly...

The Whangārei Falls are absolutely breathtaking! It's just a short drive from the CBD and a few minutes walk from the carpark to the viewing platform.

For the more adventurous, the walk through native bush is just as impressive. You can follow the path of the beautiful Hātea River from the Town Basin to Whangārei Falls via Mair Park.

Just click on the photos to get a full detailed description of the walk for Section 1, 2, and 3.

Section 1 Town Basin to Mair Park bridge. 30 minutes (one way) 1.3km

Section 2 Mair Park to Whareora Road and AH Reed Park 50 minutes (one way) 2.6km

Section 3 AH Reed Park to Whangārei Falls 45 minutes...