Discovering Waitākere Reservoir
Located at the northwestern end of Scenic Drive in the Waitākere Ranges in Auckland, the Waitākere Reservoir comprises a large dam and lake in a regenerating forest setting. One of the attractions is the abundance of young kauri trees, many of which have reached the crowning stage. Below the dam, you can also stand at the top of the Waitākere Falls.
Exploring the Dam and Surrounding Area
The walk to the dam takes approximately 20 minutes along an access road, starting from a parking area on Scenic Drive. The dam itself is situated in a stunning location, with trees in the gully below reaching the height of the dam, including the impressive crowns of kauri trees. You can cross the dam and explore around the south-west side of the reservoir, where a grassed area is surrounded by recovering forest. This area also features a significant number of kauri rickers, or saplings.
Waitākere Falls and Cascade Kauri Park
For those interested in waterfalls, a walk down the side of the dam leads to the top of Waitākere Falls, the tallest waterfall in the Waitākere Ranges at 95 metres. Although the water flow is controlled, the cliff's height remains impressive.
From the dam, you can also access the Fenceline Track in Cascade Kauri. This track connects with other tracks to form a 4-hour loop walk that showcases many ancient kauri trees, over 800 years old. If you have limited time, walk for about 20 minutes north on the track to see some big trees.
Getting to Waitākere Reservoir
From Downtown Auckland, take the western motorway to the Lincoln Road off-ramp. Take Route 19 south, then head west on Universal Drive. Continue on Swanson Road, which becomes Scenic Drive. Park in the signposted area, about 4 km south of the turnoff for Te Henga Bethells Beach, by the Watercare gate. Walk the access road for about 20 minutes to reach the dam. The drive takes 45 minutes and is 30 km.
On the way, you can check out the view from Pukematekeo, including a long-range view of the Waitākere Falls. Continuing south on Scenic Drive takes you to Spragg Bush Track, Rose Hellaby House, Cutty Grass Track, and Fairy Falls.
