Post by: theaucklandguide
New Zealand is known for its scenic views and one of the best ways to enjoy the views that made producers of Hollywood films crazy is to go hiking (or tramping, as the Kiwis call it here.) The best news is that Auckland is located in between mountain ranges and waterways which make it a perfect place for stunning waterfalls. Hiking through the well-known and best loved tracks here will give you views worthy to be framed. But, it gets even better when at the end of a track, you will be surprised with a waterfalls and a welcome dip in its cool waters will make it all the sweat worthwhile.
The Hunua Falls are located in the western part of Hunua Ranges Regional Park which is roughly 60 km from Auckland Central Business District. The spectacular 30 metre waterfall is part of the Wairoa River which carves through an ancient volcano.
Hunua Falls Upper Look Walk is a great way to explore the surrounding areas of the Hunua Falls. This is a well-beaten track and clearly signposted from the car park near the falls. The track climbs from the Wairoa River below the Hunua Falls cutting through a beautiful lush forest.
The track is 0.8 km which is around half an hour steady trek and is suitable for people with reasonable fitness level. Some steps are steep but the views are worth it.
For more track information, click here.
Kitekite Waterfalls Walking Track
Kitekite Walking Track is a 1.8km walk and it has the Waitakere Ranges as a majestic background. The track starts from the car park through the Glen Esk Stream up to the fantastic Kitekite Falls . It has a few hill sections and the track surface is mostly gravel. You can go for a night walk but be sure to bring a torch, you might meet a glow worm, an eel or two. For a longer track, includeByers Walk. Kitekite is near Piha Beach so it doesn’t hurt to take your surfing or boogie board with you.
For directions and more track information, click here.
Located at Waitakere of Greater Auckland, the Karekare Falls is a beautiful waterfalls and there are a series of cascades as you head to the beach. The Karekare Falls are only a few minutes walk from the road side. If you have plans to head to the beach from the Falls, the Pohutukawa Glade Walk is the one for you. It takes 20 minutes (signposted) and takes you north along the beach and returns via the Karekare Stream back to the car.
Nature at its most basic, there are no shops in the area nor public transport. For more details about this walking track, click here.
If you’re looking for the perfect place to complete your New Zealand experience – make sure to check out these Auckland accommodations.
Photos via Flickr Creative Commons: Hunua Waterfalls by pie4dan; Kitekite Waterfalls by 23am and Karekare Waterfalls by Tatters:)
