Whangārei Falls
Waterfall Scenic waterfall near Whangārei with swimming pools
Short, accessible waterfall a few kilometres from Whangārei town centre with picnic facilities and well-maintained walking tracks for quick nature outings.
Whangārei Falls is a waterfall on the Hātea River in Whangārei, New Zealand, with a drop of about 26 metres. It is a compact, easily reached natural attraction popular for short walks and picnics.
A paved car park and short walking tracks lead to a viewing platform that gives clear views of the falls; the reserve includes picnic areas and informal paths along the river. The site is set within a suburban reserve and is managed to provide visitor access while protecting the riparian setting.
The falls are a natural feature of the Hātea River and have long been part of the local landscape, valued for their scenic and recreational qualities. They sit within the Whangārei urban area and are one of the city’s most accessible natural attractions.
- Access: A single short, well-formed walking track and viewing platform allow close views of the falls within minutes of the car park.
- Height and setting: The waterfall drops about 26 metres on the Hātea River and is set in a small reserve with picnic facilities.
How to Get to Whangārei Falls #
Whangārei Falls are located about 10 minutes by car from Whangārei city centre. From State Highway 1 follow local signage toward the falls on Whangārei Falls Road; there is a small car park and walking tracks from the roadside. The falls are easily accessed by car; limited local bus services may operate seasonally.
Tips for Visiting Whangārei Falls #
- Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and to see the falls in the best light; parking is limited close to the falls.
- Bring water shoes if planning to wade - the pools can have slippery rocks but are attractive for a cool dip.
- Visit the nearby Hundert Acre Reserve for a quieter walk that complements the falls experience.
Best Time to Visit Whangārei Falls #
Summer and late spring are busiest; mornings are best for light and quieter paths.
Weather & Climate near Whangārei Falls #
Whangārei Falls's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in February) and cool winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 7°C to 23°C. Abundant rainfall (1496 mm/year), wettest in June.
January
January is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 15°C. Significant rainfall (106 mm).
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February
February is the warmest month with highs of 23°C and lows of 15°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm).
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March
March is mild with highs of 22°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (128 mm).
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April
April is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 12°C. Significant rainfall (111 mm).
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May
May is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (127 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 8°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (180 mm).
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 14°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (164 mm).
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August
August is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (170 mm).
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September
September is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (125 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (106 mm).
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November
November is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 12°C. Regular rainfall (96 mm).
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December
December is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 13°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm).
