Summary
Situated at the far reaches of the globe for many explorers, New Zealand embodies rugged landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty. Coupled with its esteemed reputation for high-quality accommodations, exquisite cuisine, and fine wines, New Zealand firmly establishes itself as a premier destination for adventurous travelers who seek an experience that is anything but ordinary. Below is a compilation of 15 remarkable waterfalls in New Zealand.
1. Sutherland Falls
Reaching nearly 2,000 feet above the surrounding terrain, Sutherland Falls stands as New Zealand’s highest waterfall.
While some assert that there are taller waterfalls elsewhere, your appreciation will not diminish upon witnessing this natural marvel.
Situated in Fiordland National Park on the South Island, the falls are visible from a considerable distance.
The cascading water originates from Lake Quill, progressing through three distinct cascades before plunging into the pool below.
The base of the falls is accessible by vehicle and on foot, provided you are prepared for a several-hour hike from the Milford Track.
2. Wairere Falls
Measuring nearly 500 feet in height, Wairere Falls holds the title of the tallest waterfall on the North Island and cascades dramatically over two distinct escarpments.
Located within the Kaimai Mountain Range, the falls can be accessed via a trail originating from a parking area on Goodwin Road.
This pathway leads to a constructed viewing platform near the top of the falls, offering a spectacular view of the waterfall and the surrounding valley.
A noteworthy plaque at the trailhead features a poem about the falls that visitors may find intriguing.
3. Huka Falls
While Huka Falls may not boast significant height by New Zealand’s standards, it is unrivaled in sheer power. The Waikato River, where Huka Falls is situated, narrows before the waterfall, creating an area of tremendous pressure and flow.
Located near Taupo on the North Island, the river gorge and waterfall have been carved out of sedimentary rock over ages of constant erosion.
Currently, the flow is managed by local authorities, and the waterfall is a frequently visited site due to its stunning beauty and easy accessibility.
The falls gained notoriety following the discovery of a famous national sports personality in its waters during the late 1980s, revealing a darker aspect of local culture that many prefer to forget.
4. Devil’s Punchbowl Falls
Positioned within Arthur’s Pass National Park on the South Island, the name Devil’s Punchbowl Falls does not appear to relate to an actual devil’s punchbowl.
This waterfall is regarded as the centerpiece of the national park, cascading nearly 400 feet through multiple distinct streams.
Well-marked and maintained trails and bridges in the vicinity guide visitors through the park, crossing rivers and streams.
The falls are accessible via trails that commence in Arthur’s Pass Village, with the hike covering approximately one and a half miles, leading to several picturesque viewing points.
5. Purakaunui Falls
Situated near the Catlins Forest Park, Purakaunui Falls is another favored destination for nature enthusiasts, owing to its unique tiered structure and easy accessibility. For these reasons, it is among the 15 remarkable waterfalls in New Zealand.
Approximately equidistant from Invercargill and Dunedin, the falls are about two hours from each location, making for a potential day trip.
Due to its picturesque appeal, the falls’ image was featured on a postage stamp in the late 1970s, and is only a 15-minute walk from the parking area on Purakaunui Falls Road. Facilities include restrooms and picnic tables, enhancing the experience for visitors wishing to enjoy a full day in the area.
6. Kitekite Falls
Also known as Kitakita, Kitekite Falls is located in Waitakere, Auckland on the North Island, showcasing more tiers than a lavish wedding cake.
Tucked away in the picturesque Waitakere Mountains, the falls can be accessed by nearby hiking trails, dropping nearly 260 feet.
Numerous pools can be found at the base of each section, although not all are easily accessible.
The slender waterfall and surrounding rocks are nearly cloaked in lush greenery, imparting a primordial ambiance.
This waterfall is conveniently located close to Piha Beach, making for an excellent combined day trip.
7. Bridal Veil Falls
If you deduce that Bridal Veil Falls earned its name due to its resemblance to a bridal veil, your reasoning likely exceeds that of the average individual.
Located on the Pakoka River near Waikato on the North Island, this waterfall stands nearly 200 feet high and features an above-average pool at its base.
Enclosed within the Waireinga Scenic Reserve, the geology of the area is characterized by breathtaking peaks, gorges, and dense forests.
Approximately 20 minutes from Raglan, visitors can reach the falls through a relatively short and straightforward hike along the river trail.
8. Stirling Falls
New Zealand serves as a magnet for nature enthusiasts, artists, and photographers, and for good reason.
Among the most impressive waterfalls in New Zealand is Stirling Falls, located near Milford Sound on the South Island.
One of the most photographed waterfalls in the country, you can approach its base through several cruise options in Milford Sound, some of which even offer overnight accommodations.
Helicopter tours are also available; however, they tend to be on the costly side.
9. Rere Falls
Rere Falls may not contend for accolades regarding height, but that does not diminish its appeal.
Located about an hour to the northwest of Gisborne on the North Island, Rere Falls is approximately 15 feet tall and 60 feet wide.
Its modest size makes the base pool an excellent place to swim safely, and visitors can even walk behind the cascading water.
This location is optimal for picnics or leisurely reading, and once you have enjoyed its beauty, consider visiting the Eastwoodhill Arboretum, New Zealand’s official arboretum, featuring expansive grounds filled with various trees, plants, and flowers.
10. Tawhai Falls
Commonly referred to as Gollum’s Falls due to its portrayal in The Lord of the Rings, Tawhai Falls is located in Tongariro National Park on the North Island.
The park is renowned for its rock formations that resemble trolls from The Hobbit.
Unquestionably, the falls are essential for fans of these notable works.
The falls and park are situated approximately an hour and a half from Taupo, and while there is adequate parking available, the park lacks additional facilities.
11. Thunder Creek Falls
Located in Haast Pass on the South Island, Thunder Creek Falls was shaped by glaciers, which eroded the landscape over millennia.
Close to the Southern Alps, the falls are positioned near Haast Pass and approximately 60 miles from the town of Wanaka.
There exists a conveniently located and well-marked parking area just off Haast Pass Highway, from which you can access a good view after a brief stroll.
Named for the thunderous sound of its cascading water, the falls is tall and narrow, enveloped by dense forest.
12. McLean Falls
Nestled near Doubtful Sound on the South Island, McLean Falls’ location close to the Catlins Coast makes it a must-see attraction in the region.
Located within Catlins National Forest Park along the Tautuku River, the 70-foot waterfall descends over an array of unique terraces and appears nearly shrouded in the surrounding forest.
The McLean Falls River Walk trailhead is accessible from Rewcastle Road and guides you through the area’s striking geography and lush forest. The hike to the falls takes less than an hour, and the trail is diligently maintained, with bridges crossing the streams and river en route.
13. Browne Falls
A local debate exists regarding which waterfall in New Zealand is the largest, with many claiming it is Browne Falls.
Perched above Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park, Browne Falls is celebrated for both its width and height.
It stretches nearly 3,000 feet horizontally, and its vertical drop reaches nearly 2,400 feet, making it exceptionally large, dramatic, and challenging to view in its entirety.
The waterfall is fed by Lake Browne, which, when at full capacity, cascades down its rugged face in a stunning display.
14. Humboldt Falls
If an hour’s hike will not deter you from experiencing another of New Zealand’s waterfall treasures, then Humboldt Falls in Fiordland should be added to your itinerary.
This waterfall cascades down a sheer rock face in three distinct sections, plummeting nearly 800 feet from summit to base.
Although only observable from a constructed viewing area, the falls often split into two separate streams following a heavy rain.
The trailhead can be located adjacent to the parking area at the conclusion of Hollyford Road.
15. Mount Damper Falls
Mount Damper Falls is situated on the North Island near the town of Taranaki, standing over 200 feet tall, making it one of the highest in the region.
To access the falls, visitors must first reach the parking area near New Plymouth.
From there, a trail runs alongside the creek, progressing through open fields before descending to two viewing platforms at the waterfall.
The walk is approximately 15 minutes each way, and according to information from the falls’ website, there are ‘long-drop toilets’ available in case of necessity. Although the site does not clarify the nature of long-drop toilets, it is safe to assume that if something falls in, it is unlikely to be retrieved.
