Hunua Ranges

The Hunua Ranges Regional Park, flanking the south-eastern edge of the city, is a scenic destination for visitors and locals alike. The Hunua Ranges carpet some 400-square-kilometres of terrain with native forest, ridgelines and waterfalls, the majority falling within Waharau Regional Park. No need to rely on binocular for epic views – from certain trails, you can even spot the Firth of Thames. 

Hiking trails suit a variety of fitness levels. The Hunua Falls Path, taking only 20 minutes, is of the most popular walks in the park. Walk through quiet native forest to the iconic Hunua Falls – which is 30 metres tall! Pop into the park for a quick day trip or tackle one of the longer hikes, ranging from two to nine hours. Be sure to bring your togs to cool off at a swimming hole or stream. 

Mountain bikers can traverse the bush on three trails, as well as downhill trails for the adrenaline-seeking types. Into fishing? Head to Mangatangi and the dam face at Mangatāwhiri, and you might just catch some wild rainbow trout. Be sure to get a fish and game council licence in advance, available from most sports and fishing shops.  

The Hunua Ranges is home to a wide variety of native birds, lizards and bats, and even the Hochstetter, a funny little native frog that doesn’t croak. Listen closely and you might just hear a kōkako sing, thanks to the recovery efforts by local volunteers.   

Take a day trip or enjoy the starry nights at a tranquil campground, backcountry hut or private lodging around the edge of the park.  

This regenerating forest is flush with kauri, rimu and mataī trees, but needs your help to prevent the spread of kauri dieback. Some trails are closed to protect the native trees, so check out Auckland Council’s website before your trip to find out which tracks are open.