Try a family adventure to Tanekaha Falls

Round up the kids and head for the hills this summer. The Tanekaha Falls walk is a super family adventure. Part of the Tanekaha Tracks complex, on the south side of the Brynderwyn Hills, it is just ten minutes from Mangawhai Heads.

Beginning (and ending) at the King Road car park, you cross a short section of private land to the little swing bridge. The Tanekaha Falls track follows the left bank of the stream, with just a few short climbs and one stream crossing to the first waterfall, beautifully peaceful and cool on a hot summer’s day.

Three seats are provided at rest areas along the way, and the track passes through mixed kanuka and tanekaha forest, with groves of tree ferns and nikau palms. The first waterfall tumbles into a pleasant swimming hole, a perfect rest stop for younger walkers.

The hike becomes considerably steeper to the second waterfall and several stream crossings require some care. Beyond the second waterfall the track becomes more demanding with some steep climbs and descents, even though they are stepped, they require good fitness and agility. The hard work is compensated by a beautiful pooling stream and some outstanding views of multiple waterfalls.

A highlight on the track is the remains of a kauri dam at about three quarters of the way; a useful information board explains how the remnant base logs relate to the dam’s past structure and operation.

You can make this a short walk by finishing at the first waterfall and returning from there. If you want a longer adventure, keep walking to the top to the Langsview Track junction. Walking time with young children will be about 30 minutes to the first waterfall, with plenty of stops to play along the way. The hike to Langsview Junction is 6km return.

The Tanekaha Fall and Puriri Loop Track are magnificent bush walks and both are guided options on the Mangawhai Walking Weekend. Further details on this walk and others in the Brynderwyn Hills can be found online.

n Mangawhai Walking Weekend, March 25-26. Bookings open now, so book early to avoid disappointment. Go to mangawhaiwalking.co.nz.

GOING BUSH: Water is the main theme of the Tanekaha Falls track, situated just minutes from Mangawhai Heads.