You’ll feel the hush of ancient forest as you step into a living taonga that’s finally open again after years of closure.

After a six-year rāhui to protect against kauri dieback disease, Te Piringa / Cascade Kauri in the Waitākere Ranges reopened in January 2024. This area is home to some of Auckland’s oldest and largest kauri trees, now accessible via upgraded tracks designed to protect their delicate root systems.

There are three main walks to suit different fitness levels:

• Upper Te Piringa Walk – 20 minutes return

• Lower Te Piringa Walk – 40 minutes return

• Montana Heritage Trail – 4.5 hours return

The tracks feature lovely waterholes, cool views of the dam, nice boardwalks, and generally experience a peaceful, quiet atmosphere. 🌿

If you’re doing the full loop, it’s recommended to go anti-clockwise—this way, you’ll end with a nice, gentle stroll down by the stream 💧. There are clean public toilets right at the car park, as well as at the top of the dam. No toilets along the tracks, so be prepared! The route is mostly shady, and you’ll pass many impressive Kauri trees along the way 🌳.

🌟 Visitor Reviews

“Absolutely stunning walk through ancient forest. The upgraded tracks make it accessible, and the kauri trees are magnificent.” - Mia, April 2025, AllTrails

“We’re so pleased to welcome back visitors to Cascade Kauri, but we do ask everyone to respect the site by washing your footwear and equipment on entry and exit, and by sticking to the designated walking areas.

“Cascade Kauri and the wider Waitākere Ranges Regional Park are taonga to Tāmaki Makaurau, and together we can take measures to protect the ancient kauri within them.” - DOC