Haruru Falls means ‘big noise’ in Maori and it definitely lives up to its name. It might not be the tallest waterfall in the area, but it’s very wide and positively roars after heavy rainfall. You can simply drive up and walk a minute to the falls, take the longer route via a pretty stretch of forest or even kayak right up to it from Waitangi.
We loved the viewpoint around sunset with the soft light and no one else around.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Haruru Falls.
Haruru Falls
The viewpoint
The quickest way to access the viewpoint is from the main Haruru Falls car park. From there it’s just a 50m walk down a few stairs and onto the large viewing platform.
You can then continue down a few more steps and get right up close to the top of the falls where you will definitely feel the spray if visiting after heavy rain. It’s a great spot to sit, relax and take in the sheer power and beauty of the falls.
We headed back again around sunset which was particularly pretty. The sunset wasn’t directly behind the falls but it wasn’t far off and the light was gorgeous.
The Haruru Falls rope swing
Personally I thought it looked terrifying but at the viewing platform you’ll see a tree with three wooden planks attached to the trunk. You can climb these and grab the rope swing to launch yourself into the water. Apparently it’s popular on summer days, but we didn’t try it ourselves so can’t comment on how safe it actually is! It looked homemade and it’s definitely high…….
Don’t even think about it if there has been heavy rain though, the current in the river can be really strong and the water becomes brown and swollen.
The longer walk to Haruru Falls - the Waitangi Track
If you’re up for making more of a day of it you can take a longer walk to Haruru Falls from the Waitangi Treaty Grounds (if you haven’t visited the treaty grounds yet they are a must for New Zealanders and foreigners alike).
The walk is 5km each way, plus an extra 600m to the start of the trail from the treaty grounds.
It’s a lovely trail through a shady forest, taking you first through a sea of dense tree ferns and then onto a long stretch of mangroves.
You’ll then begin following the river with lovely water views before you’ll hear the falls in the distance.
The forest is alive with bird song which is so great to hear and probably testament to the number of stoat boxes you’ll see along the way. It’s worth checking out the facts written on top of the stoat boxes, particularly on the second half of the walk when it becomes really informative.
The walk is generally very easy although it does have some gentle undulations. It also holds up nicely after rain and doesn’t get too muddy.
I wouldn’t say it’s a must do but if you have time and want a peaceful quiet walk, then it’s definitely worth the one hour each way that it takes. You can also make it a one way walk if you have two cars.
Other nearby waterfalls
If you’re a waterfall lover then it’s well worth heading 15 minutes away from Haruru Falls to the nearby town of Kerikeri. Kerikeri has five gorgeous waterfalls, including the spectacular Rainbow Falls, our favourite in Northland.
There are also some lesser known waterfalls in the area, several of which are great for swimming. If you only have limited time, opt for Rainbow Falls and Charlies Rock. Charlies Rock is exceptionally pretty and has the best swimming hole of any of the waterfalls in Kerikeri.
You can read more about each of the waterfalls in this post.
Where to stay in Kerikeri
Stone Store Lodge
The Stone Store Lodge is a little oasis in the bush, just a few minutes walk from the historical Stone Store and Kemp House buildings. The private rooms offer great views and there is also a communal lounge and full kitchen if you would like to self cater. The bush bath also looks amazing, although you do have to pay an additional fee to use it.
You can check out the reviews and prices on:
Kauri Park Motel
The Kauri Park Motel is a great choice for a comfy room with a little kitchenette (with two hobs) and a small outdoor area. Some of the units also come with spa baths. Reviewers love the spotless rooms and free welcome drink on arrival.
You can check out the reviews and prices on:
A Cut Above - The Gateway to the Bay of Islands
If you’re visiting as a family or group of friends then the three bedroom cottage, A Cut Above, is a great choice. With a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine and garden with BBQ, it’s ideal for longer stays. It’s less than a 10 minute drive from town and set in a lovely rural environment.
You can check out the reviews and prices on:
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