Haruru Falls

Haruru Falls is steeped in Māori history and famous for its striking waterfall. Find great views of the falls and embark on a nature walk that leads through the nearby mangrove forest. Alternatively, approach the falls by kayak.

Learn about the rich Māori history of Waitangi River and Haruru Falls before visiting. The beautiful area was known as an “aramoana” (pathway of the sea) by inland Māori tribes. It functioned as one of New Zealand’s first river ports and was the location of an early Māori trading settlement.

The settlement is near many other attractions, including the popular tourist town of Paihia and Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the latter of which is about 5 kilometres (3 miles) from Haruru Falls. After taking photographs of the picturesque cascades, follow the scenic trail that leads from here to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

The Waitangi to Haruru Falls track runs along the bushy banks of the Waitangi River. The 6-kilometre (4-mile) walking track includes a boardwalk section that passes through the interior of a mature mangrove forest. Look for water birds, such as herons, hunting for small crabs in the mudflats. The trail takes about 2.5 hours each way and is suitable for families.

Stroll along the trail all the way to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. These grounds are famous for being the site where the Treaty of Waitangi, an important document signifying an agreement between Māori “rangatira” (chiefs) and the British, was signed in the mid-19th century.

Drive from Haruru Falls to Paihia in less than 10 minutes. The attractive tourist town features golden beaches, excellent restaurants and gift shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs. Big game fishing and dolphin-watching charter companies can also be found here. Restaurants with oceanfront views and exceptional local cuisine are scattered around the wharf and waterfront area.

Find Haruru Falls in the Bay of Islands on New Zealand’s North Island. Stay in small self-catered cabins, luxurious oceanfront hotels, cottages and less-expensive apartments in Paihia. Haruru Falls is a great place to stop and picnic in between visiting other Bay of Islands attractions.