What a stunning 8.3km track! The Massey Cossey Loop Track commences at the spectacular Hunua Falls, climbs and descends through mature native bush filled with bird song and sidles next to Cossey Dam, one of Auckland’s precious water supply lakes.
The track is very well maintained and combines the feeling of a serious tramp with a local walking track – a great intermediate hike.
The highest altitude of 353m ensures you get a great workout as you enjoy the beautiful surroundings. It is important to realise that there are plenty of stairs nearer the ends of both the tracks as well as one river crossing on the Cossey Track.
If you’re looking for a waterfall that’s close to Auckland, Hunua Falls is a great option. You can get to the falls via a short walk from the carpark – and it’s well worth the effort, as the waterfall is pretty impressive.
On a hot day, there’s no better way to cool off than by taking a plunge into the pool at the bottom of the Hunua Falls. Pack your togs, and head on over to Hunua Falls for an afternoon of fun.
Both have a significant number of stairs to climb in the first part of the walk and therefore to descend as you get nearer the completion of the loop.
The walk commences from the main carpark at Hunua Falls, and after completing the Kauri dieback cleaning station, enjoy the views of the cascading falls from the bridge as you cross the river to start your walk.
Turn left to complete the Cossey-Massey Track rather than the Falls Loop Track. Walk approximately 300m uphill until you reach the junction of the two tracks, take the Cossey Track to walk clockwise or commence the stairs on the Massey Track to walk anti-clockwise.
The clockwise route has an early river crossing and very steep stairs to ascend, while the anti-clockwise route has more flights of stairs but is not as steep.
The track is in great shape, with a generally wide gravel path that winds its way through the thick and lush native bush. There are great views of the dam at various lookouts along the track and you get to walk across the front wall of the dam, a nice place to stop for a picnic, with toilets nearby.
Plenty of car parking at the end of the road. The toilets were very clean. A great place for a picnic and a swim at the falls.
Summer is a great time for picnics and swimming, and Hunua Falls provides the perfect spot for both. The falls are located a short walk from the car park.
There’s plenty of room to spread out a blanket and enjoy a tasty picnic lunch, and if you’re feeling adventurous you can even take a swim in the pool at the bottom of the falls.
Facilities are basic but adequate, so make sure you pack everything you need for a fun day out. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon in nature or some excitement swimming in natural waterfalls, Hunua Falls is well worth a visit.
Cossey Dam 2 km – 45 min. There are no signs to be seen until you cross the bridge. Once you are across the bridge, turn left to walk up to the dam, or right to the waterfalls.
The walkway is a good width and has a thin layer of gravel on top. 10 min into the walk, on the right, is a very steep stagger up the Massey track. Avoid this track. Carry on down into a creek and out. Be prepared to do a lot of step aerobics before the next turn off to the left which runs up to the Cosseys access Rd.
From then on to the dam is level walking up to the car park just a 5 min walk to the dam on a sealed road. Good toilets, tables and chairs to sit on for your lunch. With a pleasant view of the dam.
To Massey turnoff – 1.7 km – 45 min. Keep to the left and walk along the dam wall. Just before the road up to the caretaker’s house, turn left for the Cosseys track. A good track, again gravel with a few little uphills.
With a few steps thrown in for good luck to toughen up the legs. There is a lookout on the left, with a view of the lake.
Back to the car park via Massey Track – 2.4 km – 1 hour. The Massey track is well gravelled and wide, mostly downhill all the way, but at a good gradient.
FREE Auckland Walks eBook
Subscribe for walking and hiking tips.
Walking Day Pack made in New Zealand
2 Responses
I thought the falls had been closed to the public because of drownings, are they open again? Used to swim here often in my youth, the pool is freezing and very deep, you need to know how to swim and keep away from the falls themselves.
Hi Janet, I’ve had another double check and it is open, so all good. Yes, it is freezing, thanks for the tip too.
Thank, Sandra