The Hātea River Walk follows the Hātea River for approximately 6km from Whangārei’s Town Basin upstream to Whangārei Falls — one of New Zealand’s most accessible urban waterfalls, dropping 26 metres into a bush-fringed pool. The route is easy grade, well-formed, and suitable for cycling, walking, and running. Along the way it passes through AH Reed Memorial Park, a stand of ancient kauri forest with a boardwalk through the canopy, before emerging at the falls. It is one of the best rides or walks you can do in the city without leaving the urban area.
Practical Information
| Distance | Approximately 6km one way (Town Basin to Whangārei Falls) |
| Grade | Easy |
| Surface | Well-formed path, suitable for cycling and walking |
| Time | 1.5–2 hours one way by bike; longer on foot |
| Start | Town Basin, Whangārei |
| Finish | Whangārei Falls Scenic Reserve, Tikipunga |
| Open | Year-round |
| Facilities | Toilets and parking at Town Basin and at Whangārei Falls; café at falls |
About the Hātea River Walk
The route begins at the Town Basin marina precinct, where the Hātea Loop Walkway also starts, and follows the Hātea River north and west through the city. The path crosses multiple footbridges as the river winds upstream, passing through a mix of parkland, suburban green space, and native bush as it gets closer to the falls end.
The most significant stop along the route is AH Reed Memorial Park, where a boardwalk passes through a stand of large kauri — one of the few remaining remnants of the kauri forests that once covered much of Northland. The boardwalk loops through the park and rejoins the river path on the other side.
At the far end, the path arrives at the Whangārei Falls Scenic Reserve, where the Hātea River drops 26 metres over a basalt rock face into a clear pool below. There is a viewing platform at the top, a loop track through the reserve, and a café nearby. Most cyclists leave their bikes at the falls entrance and walk the final section through the reserve on foot.
Connecting to the Hātea Loop
At the Town Basin end, the Hātea River Walk joins the Hātea Loop Walkway, which circuits the waterfront in a 4.2km flat loop. Many people combine the two routes — riding or walking the loop first before heading upstream to the falls. The combined route makes for a half-day outing that covers most of the city’s key riverside attractions.
What Visitors Say
“One of Whangarei’s highlights — a beautiful ride along the river through kauri forest to the falls. We did it on hired bikes and it was perfect. The AH Reed kauri section is stunning.”
Where to Learn More
Whangarei District Council — Hātea River Walkway
Official information about the Hātea River walkway route from the WDC.
AllTrails — Hātea River Walk
Trail reviews, map, and user conditions reports for the Hātea River Walk.
Whangarei Online — Hātea River Walkway to Whangārei Falls
Local guide to the walkway with practical information about the route.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is the Hātea River Walk?
The walk or ride is approximately 6km one way from the Town Basin to Whangārei Falls.
Can I cycle the Hātea River Walk?
Yes — the path is suitable for cycling and is a popular ride. Most cyclists walk their bikes through the Whangārei Falls Scenic Reserve at the far end.
How long does it take?
By bike, allow around 1.5 to 2 hours one way. On foot, allow considerably longer — around 2.5 to 3 hours one way.
Is it a loop or an out-and-back route?
The river walk itself is an out-and-back route. However, you can connect to the Hātea Loop at the Town Basin end to make a longer loop.
What is there to see at the end?
Whangārei Falls drops 26 metres and has a viewing platform, a loop track through the reserve, and a café. The AH Reed Memorial Park partway along the route has a boardwalk through ancient kauri forest.
Is there parking?
Yes — there is parking at the Town Basin at the start and at the Whangārei Falls Scenic Reserve at the far end.
For more cycling and walking routes in Whangārei, see Cycling Tracks in Whangarei. The Hātea Loop Walkway connects to the start of this route at the Town Basin.