How do I get to Haruru Falls?

Haruru Falls is located off Haruru Falls Road, near Paihia in the Bay of Islands. You can drive directly (free car parking on site), or walk from the Waitangi Treaty Grounds via the 4km Waitangi walkway through mangroves. From Kerikeri, allow approximately 30 minutes by car.

Can you swim at Haruru Falls?

Yes, swimming is possible in the pool below the falls during calm conditions. The water can be fast-moving after heavy rain, so check conditions before entering. The area is popular with locals on hot summer days.

Is there a walking track to Haruru Falls from Waitangi?

Yes — the Waitangi Walkway is a scenic 4km track connecting the Waitangi Treaty Grounds to Haruru Falls. It passes through mangrove forests and native bush, taking approximately 1.5–2 hours one way. This is one of the best walks in the Bay of Islands.

Haruru Falls Paihia: Complete Visitor Guide (2026)

Essential Info

Location: Haruru, near Paihia
Drive from Kerikeri: ~30 minutes
Entry: Free
Walk from car park: 5–10 minutes
Walkway from Waitangi: 4km / ~1.5 hrs
Swimming: Yes (seasonal)

Haruru Falls is one of the Bay of Islands' most beautiful natural attractions — a wide, horseshoe-shaped waterfall on the Waitangi River, surrounded by native bush. Just a 30-minute drive from Kerigold Chalets in Kerikeri, Haruru Falls makes a perfect half-day outing, especially when combined with the nearby Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

About Haruru Falls

The name Haruru means "rumbling sound" in te reo Māori — an apt description for the steady roar of water cascading over the broad basalt shelf. Unlike the dramatic single drops of waterfalls like Rainbow Falls or Te Wairere, Haruru Falls spreads out in a wide arc, creating a tranquil curtain of white water that is especially photogenic from the viewing platform.

The Waitangi River drains a large catchment area of the Bay of Islands hinterland, and the falls are fed year-round. After heavy rain, the volume of water is spectacular. The area around the falls is managed by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and access is free.

Did You Know?

The Waitangi Walkway connecting Haruru Falls to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds passes through one of the finest remaining mangrove ecosystems in Northland. The boardwalk section allows you to walk above the mangroves and observe the rich birdlife and tidal ecology beneath your feet.

Visitor Information

Planning Your Visit

Entry: Free — no admission fee
Parking: Free car park off Haruru Falls Road
Walk to falls: Easy 5–10 minute walk from the car park
Grade: Easy, suitable for all fitness levels
Facilities: Viewing platform, picnic area
Best time to visit: Morning for calm light; after rain for maximum flow
Allow: 1–2 hours for falls + short walk; half day if combining with Waitangi walkway

Walking Tracks

Haruru Falls Short Walk

The easiest option — a flat, 5–10 minute walk from the car park through native bush to the main viewing platform. This path is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs on the upper section. The viewing platform overlooks the full horseshoe arc of the falls and is the best spot for photography.

Waitangi Walkway (Haruru Falls to Waitangi Treaty Grounds)

One of the Bay of Islands' best day walks, the Waitangi Walkway is a 4km track (one way) connecting Haruru Falls to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. The track passes through native bush, crosses a long mangrove boardwalk, and offers views of the Waitangi estuary. Allow 1.5–2 hours each way.

Walking Track Tips

Wear good walking shoes — the track can be muddy after rain
The mangrove boardwalk section is excellent for birdwatching (look for kingfishers and herons)
Start from Haruru Falls and walk to Waitangi, then return by car or taxi from Paihia
Bring water, sunscreen and insect repellent
The full return walk is approximately 8km — allow 3–4 hours

Swimming at Haruru Falls

Swimming is possible in the pool at the base of the falls and in the calmer stretches of the Waitangi River above the falls. The area is popular with local families during summer.

Best conditions: Summer months (December–March), during dry spells
Caution: Current can be strong directly beneath the falls — swim in the calmer pool areas
Water quality: Generally good; avoid after heavy rainfall when runoff is high
Access: Via the short track from the viewing platform

For more swimming spots in the region, see our guide to where to swim near Kerikeri.

Visitor Tips

Making the Most of Your Visit

Combine Haruru Falls with the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a full day out in the Bay of Islands
The falls are particularly dramatic after rain — check the weather forecast before visiting
Morning light is best for photography as the sun hits the falls from the east
Bring a picnic — there are pleasant spots along the Waitangi River above the falls
Paihia township is just 3km away for cafés, restaurants and Bay of Islands cruises

Nearby Attractions

Waitangi Treaty Grounds — 4km walkway or 5-min drive
Bay of Islands Cruise — depart from Paihia, 3km away
Hole in the Rock — accessible by cruise from Paihia
Rainbow Falls Kerikeri — 30 minutes' drive
Where to Swim Near Kerikeri
Kerikeri Mission Station — New Zealand's oldest European building
Paihia Accommodation
Bay of Islands Accommodation at Kerigold Chalets

Getting There from Kerigold Chalets

Haruru Falls is approximately 30 minutes from our chalets. Head south on Kerikeri Road, join SH10 toward Paihia, then turn onto Haruru Falls Road and follow signs to the car park.

Where to Stay Near Haruru Falls

Stay at Kerigold Chalets in Kerikeri — 30 minutes from Haruru Falls and perfectly placed to explore all of the Bay of Islands:

Easy access to Haruru Falls, Waitangi and Paihia
Self-contained chalets with full kitchen facilities
Pet-friendly accommodation available
Local knowledge and walking track guides provided

Haruru Falls: Complete Visitor Guide to the Bay of Islands Waterfall