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McLaren Falls Park in Autumn in New Zealand

Rusty red Cypress trees are the main autumnal decoration of McLaren Falls Park

Best time: March–May

McLaren Falls Park in Autumn
McLaren Falls Park in Autumn

McLaren Falls are equally beautiful throughout the year, yet autumnal colours make the park particularly attractive. The special lure of the fall must be dazzling red rust-like hues of Cypress trees. McLaren Falls Park located in Tauranga is one of not many locations in New Zealand which can boast such a considerable number of Cypress trees. In addition to nice foliage colours, the trees fascinate with the unusually shaped trunks. You may enjoy the best of gorgeous Cypress trees between March and May.

Practical info

What are the highlights of McLaren Falls Park in autumn?

The McLaren Falls Park stands out in the fall thanks to its stunning grove of Cypress trees. The trees are striking in their rust-red colours and provide a lovely contrast with the park’s lakes, wildlife, and walking trails. Visitors can also try camping, fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities while enjoying the park’s serene picnic spots and educational trails for children. Show more

What sets McLaren Falls Park apart in autumn from other areas in New Zealand?

The breathtaking Cypress trees are what make McLaren Falls Park a must-visit destination in fall. Vast groves of this rare dwarf species are found only in the park, where they transform the scenery with their red foliage. McLaren Falls Park also boasts several scenic walking trails, fishing spots, and other outdoor activities. The site is perfect for quiet family outings, including picnics and educational tours. Show more

When is the best time to visit McLaren Falls Park to see the autumn foliage?

Between March and May, nature lovers flock to McLaren Falls Park to catch a glimpse of the lovely red foliage on the Cypress trees. This is the park’s peak season, albeit with fewer visitors than usual, so crowds are not an issue. It’s the perfect time to enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities, as well as appreciate the park’s lakes, wildlife, and educational trails for children. Show more

Does McLaren Falls Park charge an admission fee?

There is no entrance fee at McLaren Falls Park for visitors. While certain activities like fishing, kayaking, and camping may have individual costs, the plentiful picnic areas, playgrounds, and educational walking trails are free. The park offers stunning views that are perfect for exploring, with opportunities to watch wildlife, take in scenic views, hike on trails, picnic, and take photographs free of charge. Show more

Are there any notable attractions in the area near McLaren Falls Park?

There is no shortage of things to do around McLaren Falls Park. Tauranga City offers a variety of attractions, including museums, art galleries, restaurants, cafes and boutique shops, which are just a 20-25 minute drive away. Besides, visitors might like to check out the Mount Maunganui beach, Waihi Beach or Karangahake Gorge which are close by and worth visiting while in the area. Show more

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