Last updated July 2026
Whau Valley is a suburb of Whangārei in Northland, New Zealand, located northwest of the city centre along a valley that transitions from residential properties into farmland and bush remnants. The area features larger lifestyle blocks and offers a semi-rural setting while remaining close to urban amenities. Its defining landmark is the Whau Valley Dam, an earth structure commissioned in 1967 that forms the reservoir supplying a significant portion of the city’s water. The reservoir also supports limited recreational fishing for trout under licence from Fish & Game New Zealand. Access is straightforward via Whau Valley Road, with the dam area reachable in approximately five minutes by car from central Whangārei.
Practical Information
| Location | Northwest Whangārei suburb, accessed via Whau Valley Road |
| Character | Rural-residential with lifestyle blocks, farmland and native bush |
| Key feature | Whau Valley Dam and Reservoir — water supply and licensed trout fishing |
| Access | Whau Valley Road; approximately 5-minute drive from Whangārei city centre |
| Fishing | Shore-based only; Fish & Game licence required; no boating or swimming |
| Dam commissioned | 1967 |
About Whau Valley
Whau Valley lies on the northwestern fringe of Whangārei and takes its name from the whau trees that once grew in the area. State Highway 1 passes through the suburb, providing convenient connections while the valley itself maintains a quieter, more spacious feel than central residential zones. Properties are typically larger lifestyle blocks set among remnants of native bush and open farmland, attracting residents who seek proximity to the city without dense suburban surroundings.
The Whau Valley Reservoir is formed by an earth dam commissioned by Whangārei District Council in 1967. It impounds the Whau Valley River and supplies approximately 50–60 per cent of Whangārei’s municipal water. A modern treatment plant that also draws from the Hātea River became operational in May 2021, ensuring secure long-term supply for the district.
Recreational use of the reservoir is strictly regulated due to its primary role as a water supply. Boating and swimming are prohibited because of drowning risk, and fishing is permitted only from the shore with a current Fish & Game New Zealand licence. The site is annually stocked with around 300 rainbow trout fingerlings, making it the closest trout fishery to Whangārei’s urban area.
Whau Valley Reservoir Fishing
Angling at the reservoir is shore-based only, with anglers accessing the water’s edge from the car park and surrounding banks. Rainbow trout are the primary species, supplemented occasionally by brown trout. A standard Northland fishing licence from Fish & Game is required, and all national and regional regulations apply. The dam car park provides immediate access, and evening or night fishing can be productive as fish move into shallower water.
Access and Tracks
Whau Valley Road provides direct vehicle access from Whangārei. A short walking track leads to the dam, offering views of the reservoir and surrounding hills. The Whau Valley Dam Track is a 1.3-mile out-and-back route with moderate elevation gain, typically completed in 50 minutes to one hour. Visitors should stay on designated paths and observe all signage regarding water safety and access restrictions.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers appreciate the short, scenic track to the dam with good views and a peaceful setting close to the city. Anglers note that the reservoir offers convenient shore fishing for trout, though success varies and the site can feel exposed in windy conditions.
Residents and visitors value the semi-rural lifestyle with larger sections and proximity to Whangārei amenities. Some mention the area feels quiet and green, with easy access for daily commuting or weekend recreation.
Where to Learn More
Whangārei District Council: Current information on dam operations, water supply and access rules.
Fish & Game New Zealand: Details on Northland trout fisheries including stocking and licence requirements.
Whangārei District Council: Information on the Whau Valley Water Treatment Plant and its role in the supply network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Whau Valley located?
Whau Valley is a suburb northwest of Whangārei city centre, accessed via Whau Valley Road and approximately a five-minute drive from the central area.
Can you fish at Whau Valley Reservoir?
Yes, shore-based trout fishing is permitted with a current Fish & Game New Zealand licence. Boating and swimming are not allowed.
When was the Whau Valley Dam built?
The earth dam was commissioned in 1967 and supplies a large share of Whangārei’s drinking water.
Is Whau Valley a suburb or rural area?
It is a suburb with a rural-residential character featuring lifestyle blocks and farmland on the city’s northwestern fringe.
Are there walking tracks at the reservoir?
Yes, the Whau Valley Dam Track is a moderate 1.3-mile out-and-back trail that takes about 50 minutes to one hour to complete.
What fish are stocked in the reservoir?
The reservoir is annually stocked with approximately 300 rainbow trout fingerlings, making it the nearest trout fishery to Whangārei.
Is the water treatment plant open to visitors?
The treatment plant is an operational facility and not open for public tours; the reservoir area is accessible for permitted recreation only.
Are dogs allowed at the reservoir?
Official sources do not list specific dog rules for the dam area; visitors should check current signage or contact Whangārei District Council for the latest information.
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