Last updated July 2026
Tāheke Falls is Northland’s highest waterfall at 46 metres, a cascade on the Tāheke River reached only by foot through regenerating kauri forest 14 km northeast of Whangārei. The Department of Conservation manages a 3 km loop track that leads to a viewing platform overlooking the falls and the gorge below. The track begins with a concrete ford crossing and winds through native bush with good shade cover. Visitors should check river levels before crossing the ford and stay on the marked path at all times.
Practical Information
| Location | Tāheke Scenic Reserve, 14 km northeast of Whangārei via Whareora-Pataua North Road and Hoban Road |
| Waterfall height | 46 metres (Northland’s highest) |
| Track distance | 3 km loop |
| Time | 1–1.5 hours |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate, well-formed with some inclines and stairs |
| River crossing | Concrete ford at the start; do not cross when flooded |
| Viewpoint | Platform above the falls; no access to the base |
| Cost | Free |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
About Tāheke Falls
The Tāheke Waterfall Track starts at a DOC carpark at the end of Hoban Road. The initial concrete ford crosses the Tāheke River; rocks can be slippery and the crossing must not be attempted in flood conditions. The loop passes through a grove of regenerating kauri forest that provides shade for most of the walk.
A short detour branches off the main loop to a viewing platform that overlooks the falls. From this elevated position there is an impressive downstream view across the Tāheke Scenic Reserve. There is no track access to the base of the falls or the pool below.
The falls are most striking after heavy rain when river flow is high. In drier periods the volume can drop noticeably. Stay on the marked track, supervise children near the viewpoint and ford, and be aware of possible wasps in the area.
Getting There and Access
From central Whangārei drive approximately 20–25 minutes northeast along Whareora-Pataua North Road. Turn onto Hoban Road, cross a bridge and continue to the DOC carpark at the end. The track begins along a private road from the carpark. The route is suitable for standard vehicles when the road is dry.
What Visitors Often Say
The walk through the kauri forest is beautiful and the viewing platform provides a clear perspective of the full height of the falls. The track is well maintained and the ford crossing adds interest at the start.
An easy and rewarding short hike with good forest cover. Conditions at the ford should be checked after rain, and the viewpoint is the highlight of the loop.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Taheke Waterfall Track: official track description, access details and safety information.
AllTrails — Taheke Waterfall Track: GPS mapping and recent visitor condition reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high is Tāheke Falls?
46 metres, making it the highest waterfall in Northland.
How long is the Tāheke Falls track?
A 3 km loop that typically takes 1–1.5 hours, with a short detour to the viewing platform.
Can you reach the base of Tāheke Falls?
No. The viewing platform overlooks the top of the falls and there is no track access to the base or pool below.
What should I know about the ford crossing?
The track starts with a concrete ford over the Tāheke River. Rocks may be slippery and the crossing must not be attempted when the river is flooded.
How do I get to Tāheke Falls?
Drive 14 km northeast of Whangārei via Whareora-Pataua North Road, then turn onto Hoban Road and follow it to the DOC carpark.
Is the track suitable for children?
Yes, it is an easy to moderate loop suitable for children comfortable with the distance. Supervise at the viewpoint and ford.
When is the best time to visit Tāheke Falls?
After heavy rain the falls have the highest flow and are most impressive, though the ford crossing requires extra caution at these times.
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