Stand behind the veil of Whangarei's 26-metre urban waterfall — one of the most accessible yet spectacular falls in New Zealand — then walk among ancient kauri giants in the AH Reed Memorial Kauri Park, a primeval forest that was old when the Māori arrived.
What to expect
Your private naturalist guide collects you and drives to the Tikipunga basin, where a short loop track delivers you to the thundering base of Otuihau/Whangarei Falls, framed by subtropical ferns and native tūī singing overhead. The drive continues to AH Reed Memorial Park, where a raised boardwalk threads through a cathedral grove of ancient kauri — some with girths exceeding six metres. Your guide shares the deep ecological and spiritual significance of these trees to Māori and the conservation battles to protect them. The pace is leisurely, unhurried, and entirely on your terms.
Good to know
Both sites are within 5 km of Whangarei's town centre — easily managed in a half-day. Book HeadsUp Adventures directly at headsup.co.nz for a private guided experience. The boardwalk at AH Reed is well-maintained but wear comfortable walking shoes. Combine with the Town Basin Marina for lunch afterwards — the waterfront precinct is 10 min from both sites.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Whangarei — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.