Discovering Fairy Falls in the Waitākere Ranges
Fairy Falls is located in the Waitākere Ranges, accessible via Scenic Drive between the Cutty Grass Track and Spragg Bush Track, northwest of the Piha Road turnoff. This scenic destination reopened in October 2024 after being closed in 2018 due to kauri dieback. The track now features a series of raised steps and two bridges that zig-zag down the falls, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding kauri trees. These improvements were carried out by reNarture.
Walking the Fairy Falls Track
The track to Fairy Falls is approximately a 30-minute walk each way, descending around 180 metres to the base of the falls. While the walk down is relatively easy, the return journey may be challenging for some due to the incline.
The initial section of the track is flat and gravelled, lined with tall, mature rimu trees, kiekie vines, and epiphytes. Openings in the forest canopy, caused by fallen trees, provide opportunities to spot puawhānanga, a native clematis that blooms in mid-spring. Shortly after starting, you'll encounter a branch track leading to Tawairi Road, from which you can access the picturesque Spragg Bush Track. Note that a previous access route to the falls from the bottom is now closed.
As you progress, the track descends towards Fairy Falls Stream, incorporating some steps. After 20 to 25 minutes, you'll reach a raised boardwalk marking the beginning of the kauri tree area. These trees are among the oldest in the ranges outside the Cascades.
The Majestic Fairy Falls
Fairy Falls is often mistakenly described as being only 15 metres high, which refers to the final lower section. In reality, the falls consist of several steep drops, with pools separating each section. The track's reconstruction enhances the experience, featuring a bridge over the top of the falls and another over the lower section. From the top, you can witness a dramatic 60-metre cascade down to the second bridge. In total, the falls drop about 80 metres, comparable to Kitekite Falls and the less visible Waitākere Falls. Steps provide access to two pools above the final 15-metre drop, though soaking in the bottom pool is discouraged due to a fenced viewpoint at the base of the steps.
Getting to Fairy Falls
To reach Fairy Falls, head to the main track entrance on Scenic Drive, where a mid-sized car park is located opposite. The drive from Downtown Auckland takes about 45 minutes outside of rush hour. The walk is particularly popular on weekends and public holidays, so visiting on weekdays is recommended to avoid crowds.
