Piroa Falls in the Waipu Gorge Scenic Reserve is one of Northland’s most accessible waterfalls — a 20-metre drop on the Ahuroa River reached in under 10 minutes on a flat, easy track through native bush. It sits just off State Highway 1 between Whangarei and Auckland, making it a natural stopping point on the drive north, and the swimming hole at the base is a genuine attraction in its own right.
Practical Information
| Location | Waipu Gorge Scenic Reserve — off SH1 at the foot of the Brynderwyn Hills, then 6 km along Waipu Gorge Road |
|---|---|
| Waterfall height | 20 metres |
| Track distance | Approximately 320 m one way (under 10 minutes to the falls) |
| Time | 30–60 minutes return including time at the falls |
| Difficulty | Easy — flat track with some steps |
| Swimming | Yes — swimming hole on the Ahuroa River below the falls |
| Bridge | Concrete slab bridge at the river crossing (“Rotary 1983”) |
| Cost | Free |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
About the Falls
The Piroa Falls track is one of the shortest and easiest DOC walks in Northland. From the carpark at the end of Waipu Gorge Road, a flat bush track leads through the reserve to a concrete slab bridge across the Ahuroa River — look for the “Rotary 1983” engraving, a record of when the bridge was built. From the bridge, it’s about five minutes to the falls.
The falls drop 20 metres over a tiered basalt face into a clear pool that’s popular for swimming on hot days. The view from beneath, looking up at the full height of the falls with the bush-covered walls of the gorge on either side, is the main event. There’s a swimming hole in the river that’s calm enough for a dip when conditions allow.
Note that the track involves some steps and the rocks near the water can be slippery. Wear shoes with grip, especially if you’re heading close to the base of the falls.
Getting There
Piroa Falls is approximately 50 km south of Whangārei — about 45 minutes on SH1. Turn off at the signposted junction at the foot of the Brynderwyn Hills and follow Waipu Gorge Road for about 6 km to the DOC carpark. The junction is well-signed from SH1.
What Visitors Say
“Short and easy walk to a beautiful waterfall — perfect roadside stop between Whangarei and Auckland. The swimming hole is great in summer and the falls look impressive from below. The gorge setting is lovely.” — AllTrails reviewer
“One of the better easily-reached waterfalls in Northland — not as well known as Whangarei Falls but definitely worth a stop. The concrete bridge with ‘Rotary 1983’ is a nice detail. Took about 40 minutes total.” — Epic Little Missions blog
Where to Learn More
DOC — Piroa Falls Track has the official track description, access directions and current status.
AllTrails — Piroa Falls Track has GPS mapping, elevation profiles and recent visitor reviews.
Epic Little Missions — Piroa Falls has a first-person account of the walk with photos and practical notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Piroa Falls from Whangarei?
Approximately 50 km south — about 45 minutes on SH1. Turn off at the Brynderwyn Hills foot and follow Waipu Gorge Road 6 km to the carpark.
How long is the Piroa Falls walk?
The track to the falls is about 320 metres one way — under 10 minutes. Allow 30–60 minutes total including time at the falls and the swimming hole.
Can you swim at Piroa Falls?
Yes — there’s a swimming hole on the Ahuroa River near the falls. It’s popular in summer, though conditions vary. Exercise care near the rocks, which can be slippery.
Is the Piroa Falls track suitable for children?
Yes — it’s short, flat and easy. Young children can manage it. There are some steps and slippery rocks near the water, so supervise carefully near the river.
How high is Piroa Falls?
20 metres over a tiered basalt face.
Is there parking at Piroa Falls?
Yes — a DOC carpark at the end of Waipu Gorge Road. No fee for parking or entry.
See all waterfalls in the Whangārei district on our Whangārei waterfalls page. For a longer waterfall walk closer to the city, the Tāheke Falls loop track leads to Northland’s highest waterfall at 46 metres.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.