Discovering Fairy Falls
Fairy Falls is located in the Waitākere Ranges in Auckland, accessible via Scenic Drive between the Cutty Grass Track and Spragg Bush Track, northwest of the Piha Road turnoff. This scenic destination reopened in October 2024 after being closed in 2018 due to kauri dieback. The track now features a series of raised steps and two bridges that zig-zag down the falls, providing a unique perspective of the surrounding kauri trees. These improvements were carried out by reNarture.
Walking the Fairy Falls Track
The track to Fairy Falls is approximately a 30-minute walk each way, descending around 180 metres to the base of the falls. While the walk down is relatively easy, the return journey may be challenging for some due to the incline.
The initial section of the track is flat and gravelled, lined with tall, mature rimu trees, kiekie vines, and epiphytes. Openings in the forest canopy, caused by fallen trees, provide opportunities to spot puawhānanga, a native clematis that blooms in mid-spring. Shortly after starting, you'll encounter a branch track leading to Tawairi Road, from which you can access the picturesque Spragg Bush Track. Note that a previous access route to the falls from the bottom is now closed.
As you progress, you'll reach a raised boardwalk marking the beginning of the kauri tree area. From there, the track gradually descends towards Fairy Falls Stream. A bridge crosses the stream at the top of the falls, with a fabulous view, then a series of steep steps takes you down the side of the falls, amongst mature kauri. These trees are among the oldest in the ranges outside the Cascade Kauri.
The Majestic Fairy Falls
Fairy Falls is often mistakenly described as only 15 metres high, referring to the final lower section. In reality, the falls consist of several steep drops, with pools separating each section. The track's reconstruction enhances the experience, featuring a bridge over the top of the falls and another over the lower section.
From the top, you can witness a dramatic 60-metre cascade down to the second bridge. In total, the falls drop about 80 metres, comparable to Kitekite Falls and the less visible Waitākere Falls. Steps and a platform provide access to the pool above the final 15-metre drop. Although there are steps down to the lower pool, access is discouraged by a fenced viewpoint near the base of the falls.
Getting to Fairy Falls
To reach Fairy Falls from Downtown Auckland is 30 km and takes about 45 minutes outside of rush hour. Take the western motorway to the Lincoln off-ramp. Head south towards Henderson on Lincoln Road, then turn west onto Universal Drive. This takes you to Swanson Road, then to Scenic Drive. Follow Scenic Drive until you see the sign for Fairy Falls and the car park. The walk is particularly popular on weekends and public holidays, so visiting on weekdays is recommended to avoid crowds.
Other nearby places to visit include the Large Kauri Tree, Cutty Grass Track, Rose Hellaby House, and Pukematekeo.
