The 30 MOST AMAZING New Zealand WATERFALLS

Chasing waterfalls is one of the best things to do in New Zealand. The country’s diverse geography, which includes mountains, forests, and glaciers, contributes to the creation of numerous breathtaking waterfalls. There are over 249 named waterfalls in New Zealand and while some of them are very easy to reach, others include a fun hike in stunning forest or with a mix of mountains, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes. After exploring the North and South Island in spring and autumn for about 3 months in total, we have captured and visited some of the best New Zealand waterfalls. So in this complete guide, you’ll find a total of 30 best waterfalls in New Zealand subdivided into the North and South Island.

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30 BEST NEW ZEALAND WATERFALLS

Best New Zealand Waterfalls South Island

Rob Roy waterfalls

While you might not think about this series of beautiful waterfalls at first, they can’t be missed in my opinion on this list of the best New Zealand waterfalls. In fact, the Rob Roy waterfalls include everything that New Zealand is about for me. Hanging glaciers, lush forest, and river valleys with gushing waterfalls cascading down the sheer rock face of the glacier. It’s an incredibly spectacular sight and relatively easy to get to via the Rob Roy Glacier track in Mount Aspiring National Park.

You can easily do this day track when staying in Wanaka. Situated in the Matukituki Valley, approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) west of Wanaka, the trailhead for the Rob Roy Track is accessible via a gravel road along Mount Aspiring Road. The Rob Roy track is approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) round trip and takes around 3-4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the time spent admiring the scenery.

Wishbone Falls

The Wishbone Falls is a 77-meter-long waterfall at the entrance of Mount Aspiring National Park. It is a popular stop on the way to the Rob Roy Glacier track and can even be seen from the road. A short walking path through private land leads to the base of Wishbone Falls. From here you can admire the beautiful scenery of the Matukituki Valley and the stunning waterfall seeping down the rocks into a natural pool.

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Devils Punchbowl Waterfall

Devils Punch Bowl is a spectacular waterfall in Arthur’s Pass National Park. The powerful 131-meter (430-foot) high waterfall cascades down a steep cliff face creating a spectacular misty display as the water crashes into the pool below. The surrounding area is full of lush native vegetation, including beech forests and alpine plants, which adds to the beauty of the setting. Via a well-maintained and quite easy walking track you can get to the viewing platform of Devil’s Punchbowl waterfall where you can admire its power and beauty. Devils Punchbowl Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls of the South Island and is very easy to visit.

Read in our complete guide everything about Devils Punchbowl Waterfall

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Earnslaw Burn Glacier Waterfalls

Earnslaw Burn is a real-life fairytale of hanging glaciers in a valley surrounded by countless waterfalls. It is one of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets and truly feels like a dream to be there. I can remember the first time that I saw a picture of Earnslaw Burn while doing research for our New Zealand trip. I couldn’t believe my eyes. From that moment it was our dream to get to Earnslaw Burn Valley, we had to see this place with our own eyes!

But the biggest challenge with Earnslaw Burn is getting there. There are two options, either by foot during an (overnight) 28km out and back hike. Or by helicopter for an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience. The choice is up to you, and of course, both options give a completely different experience. If you’re short in time during your trip through New Zealand and you have the budget for a helicopter tour, then we can’t recommend this experience enough.

Once you get to the Earnslaw Burn Valley it really feels as if you’ve stepped into an otherworldly landscape. It feels like a movie scene, and funnily enough, this location was the movie set for Lord of the Rings. So if you’re convinced enough to see this landscape, but don’t have the time for an overnight hike, then make sure to book this Middle Earth helicopter tour.

Read in our complete guide everything about Earnslaw Burn and the glacier waterfalls

Hundred Falls Milford Sound

One of the most spectacular sights in Milford Sound is the Hundred Falls seeping down the sheer cliffs along the road. However, the Hundred Falls are weather-dependent and only flow after heavy rain. So you have to be lucky to see them in full glory. Milford Sound is actually one of the only places in New Zealand that really comes to life during and, especially after, heavy rain. Only then you will be able to see the many waterfalls that Milford Sound has. Also during the Milford Sound Cruise you can see many more waterfalls along the fjords than on dry days.

You can see the Hundred Falls on a rainy day after you’ve passed the Homer tunnel. On Google Maps you will see a few photo spots marked called ‘1855 Lookout’, ‘Hundred Falls’ and ‘Milford Valley Lookout’. All are closely located to each other. Wherever is a safe spot to park you should pull over for a few minutes to take in these impressive views!

Read in our complete guide about the best things to do in Milford Sound

Lady Bowen Falls

Lady Bowen Falls is one of the iconic waterfalls in Milford Sound plunging down a steep rock face directly into the sound’s dark, deep waters of Milford Sound. Located near the entrance of the Milford Sound fiords, you can easily spot Lady Bowen Falls either from the ground or when cruising into the fjord. Lady Bowen Falls has a vertical drop of approximately 162 meters (531 feet), making it one of the highest waterfalls in New Zealand.

Just like the other waterfalls in Milford Sound, the visibility and intensity of Lady Bowen Falls varies depending on the weather conditions and the water flow from nearby mountains. After heavy rainfall, the waterfall can be particularly impressive, with the sound of cascading water echoing throughout the fjord.

You can also visit the Lady Bowen Falls from up close when booking a kayak tour in Milford Sound. This will give you a unique and intimate way to experience the stunning beauty of this iconic fjord on New Zealand’s South Island. Instead of taking a traditional Milford Sound boat cruise, kayaking allows you to get up close to the waterfalls, cliffs, and wildlife, immersing yourself in the natural wonders of Milford Sound.

Another option to admire Lady Bowen Falls from a different perspective is by booking this scenic helicopter flight in Milford Sound. During this experience, you can see Lady Bowen Falls and the impressive Milford Sound fiords from an aerial perspective which not many people can say!

Thunder Creek Falls

Thunder Creek Falls is a stunning waterfall located along the Haast Pass Highway (State Highway 6). It is one of the most easily accessible New Zealand waterfalls and is worth a stop when driving through Mount Aspiring National Park.

This stunning waterfall plunges dramatically down a rock face from a height of approximately 28 meters (92 feet). The water flows from the thundering rapids of Thunder Creek, which originates from glaciers in the surrounding mountains.

The track to Thunder Creek Falls is a short and easy well-marked path making it suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. Framed by the lush greenery of the forest and the rugged mountain backdrop, Thunder Creek Falls offers excellent photography opportunities. The changing light throughout the day can create different moods and atmospheres for capturing stunning images.

Sutherland Falls

Sutherland Falls is one of New Zealand’s most iconic and impressive waterfalls, located within Fiordland National Park. With a drop of approximately 580 meters (1,903 feet), the Sutherland Falls is one of the tallest New Zealand waterfalls. The falls are fed by the waters of Lake Quill, which is located in a hanging valley high above the falls. The water from Lake Quill plunges over the cliff edge to create the magnificent Sutherland Falls.

To see Sutherland Falls there are two options. The first one is by foot when you hike the multi-day Milford Track. You can then take a challenging 1,5 hour return hike which branches off from the main trail to get to the Sutherland Falls.

The second option is to book a helicopter flight to Milford Sound so you will pass this breathtaking waterfall flowing down the mountain. This is actually the best way to see the Sutherland Falls because with hiking you will never get this perspective.

We had the huge pleasure of seeing the Sutherland Falls from a helicopter which really added scale to the whole landscape.

Purakaunui Falls

The Purakaunui Falls are located deep south in Catlins Forest Park. This beautiful three-tiered waterfall can be reached after a short walk through the mature beech forest. This 15-minute return track is easy to follow and only has some stairs down to the waterfall at the end.

The Purakaunui Falls are some of the most famous Catlins waterfalls and even some of New Zealand’s most photographed waterfalls! With 20 meters in height over 3 tiers, it isn’t the highest waterfall in New Zealand, but because of its different tiers and the way the water is falling down the rocks, it’s definitely one of the most beautiful!

Read in our complete guide everything about Purakaunui Falls

McLean Falls

The spectacular Mc Lean Falls is another stunning waterfall in Catlins Forest Park. This 22-meter-high multi-level cascade is surrounded by mossy rocks and native forest. The short but beautiful walk through the forest along a well-maintained track is a great family-friendly walk in the Catlins. There are a few smaller waterfalls you will pass before you get to the star of the walk, the tall Mc Lean Falls.

Once you arrive at the McLean Falls you can walk further up along the rocks until you get close to the waterfall. But be careful, the rocks can be slippery! And if the water level is too high it’s obviously not possible. McLean Falls is without a doubt one of the most beautiful New Zealand waterfalls!

Read in our complete guide everything about McLean Falls in the Catlins

Koropuka Falls

The Koropuku Falls is a very charming, fairytale-like waterfall in the Catlins. Found in the western part of Catlins Conservation Park, along the scenic Chaslands Highway, you will almost pass the sign to Koropuku Falls if you don’t pay enough attention. The walk to Koropuku Falls is through an enchanting mossy forest and almost feels as if you’ve stepped into a real-life fairytale!

Although Koropuku Falls is only 10 meters high (about 33 ft), it might sound not too impressive. But the scenery, the walk towards the falls, and the perfect silky curtain-like waterfall with lush surroundings make Koropuku Falls a gem. It’s not a very popular spot, so you most likely have the waterfall for yourself which is so peaceful and special to experience.

Read in our complete guide everything about Koropuku Falls

Matai Falls

Another great waterfall in the Catlins is the Matai Falls. You can reach this waterfall via a short walk in the Catlins through regenerating podocarp and broadleaf forest. You will get to see two waterfalls from a lookout point which are closely located to each other. The walk is only 15 minutes to Matai waterfall and another 4 minutes to Horseshoe waterfall. It’s easy to do for every age which makes it a perfect family activity in the Catlins. It might not be the tallest and most impressive New Zealand waterfall, but it’s definitely a very serene environment.

Read in our complete guide everything about the Mata Falls

Humboldt Falls

The 275-meter tall Humboldt Falls is one of the prettiest and tallest waterfalls in Milford Sound you can visit. The well-graded 30-minute return walking track takes you on a short climb through the rainforest of Hollyford Valley to a lookout point on the Humboldt Falls.

Stirling Falls

Stirling Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Milford Sound, with a vertical drop of approximately 155 meters (509 feet). The waterfall cascades down a sheer cliff face, creating an awe-inspiring sight as the water plunges into the dark waters of the fjord below. Fun fact, the Stirling Falls was featured in the movie Wolverine where Hugh Jackman jumped off from this spectacular waterfall!

Stirling Falls is a freshwater waterfall, fed by the melting snow and rainwater from the surrounding mountains. The fjord itself, however, is a saltwater environment due to its connection with the Tasman Sea.

As said before, Stirling Falls can only be seen from either a Milford Sound cruise or Milford Sound helicopter flight.

Best New Zealand Waterfalls North Island

Marokopa Falls

Some of the most beautiful New Zealand waterfalls is located on the western side of the North Island. The 35-meter-high Marokopa Falls flows down the rocks into a deep pool below, creating a powerful roar and misty atmosphere. Surrounded by lush greenery and native bush, the Marokopa Falls is a beautiful natural attraction to visit. The waterfall viewing platform is very easily accessible by a short walk from the car park. There is an option to get down to the waterfall in the river, however, the original staircase and platform were wiped out in 2023. Nevertheless, the view on Marokopa Falls is breathtaking, and if you feel really adventurous you can still get down to the river via an unofficial path through the forest.

Read in our complete guide everything about Marokopa Falls

Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls is a stunning waterfall located near the town of Raglan in the Waikato region. It is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the area with a height of 55 meters (180 feet) and absolutely worth a visit.

Bridal Veil Falls cascades over a sheer cliff face and gets its name from the delicate and elegant way the water spreads out like a bridal veil as it falls, especially during times of high flow.

There are two viewing platforms strategically positioned along the walking track that offer different perspectives of the waterfall. The platforms provide excellent vantage points for photography and taking in the breathtaking sight of the waterfall.

Rainbow Falls

The Rainbow Falls is a 27-meter-high spectacular waterfall in Kerikeri. It is without a doubt the most beautiful waterfall in Northland together with Whangarei Falls. Via the car park, you can follow the short Rainbow Falls track to the base of the waterfall, but make sure to first check out the other viewpoints at the top of the falls.

The Rainbow Falls is connected to the Kerikeri River Track which we highly recommend to walk at least a part of it. This 8.4km return walk from the Stone Store takes you to the Fairy Pools and Wharepoke Falls. But you can also take the car and drive to one of the other access points to get to the Wharepoke Falls. However, you will then miss out on a stunning part of the walk that follows the river through the stunning forest. So if you have the time, walk at least a part of the Kerikeri River Track and eventually combine a visit to the Wharepoke Falls together with the Rainbow Falls.

Read in our complete guide about the 7 best KeriKeri waterfalls

Taranaki Falls

The Taranaki Falls is a stunning 20-meter-high waterfall that cascades over a volcanic rock face. Located in Tongariro National Park, you can reach the Taranaki Falls via a 6 kilometers loop track which takes about 2-3 hours to complete. The walk is beautiful along golden tussock meadows with views of Mount Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe volcano. You will walk along rugged volcanic terrain and through lush forest which makes the Taranaki Falls track a varied but fun and easy day hike.

Read in our complete guide everything about Taranaki Falls

Tawhai Falls

Tawhai Falls, also known as Gollum’s Pool, is a beautiful small waterfall located within Tongariro National Park. With a drop of approximately 13 meters (42 feet), Tawhai Falls is not a tall waterfall. However, it is a very photogenic waterfall that cascades over a series of rocky ledges, creating a picturesque scene of white water flowing through lush green surroundings.

The nickname “Gollum’s Pool” is derived from the famous “The Lord of the Rings” film trilogy. The pool was featured in one of the movies, where the character Gollum is seen fishing. Getting to Tawhai Falls is easy, as it requires only a short and straightforward walk from the car park. The walking track is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels, making it an ideal spot for a quick and enjoyable nature stop.

Waipunga Falls

The Waipunga Falls are located on the Waipunga River, halfway between Taupo and Napier. The viewpoint of the waterfall is easy to reach as it is located along State Highway 5. Keep an eye out for the sign “Waipunga Falls”. Here you can turn left onto a big car park with no facilities.

There are actually two waterfalls coming together, known as Waipunga Falls and Waiarua Falls. It’s a spectacular sight and can’t be missed when chasing the best New Zealand waterfalls.

Te Wairere Falls

Te Wairere waterfall, also known as Wairoa Stream Falls, has a special background story. The waterfall has been lost for 60 years because the land surrounding the falls blocked the access which resulted in completely overgrown land. But then the Kerikeri community decided to create access again and ever since the re-opening of the Te Wairere Falls in April 2017, it is now possible to visit this stunning hidden gem. It is definitely one of the most beautiful KeriKeri waterfalls and is accessible via an easy 1.7km return track. This walk starts from Cobham Road and takes you through the forest down a couple of staircases to the base of the falls. There you can find a bench to relax for some time.

Huka Falls

The Huka Falls is just a short drive from Taupo and is one of the most famous waterfalls in New Zealand. Here you can witness the raw power of nature as the mighty Waikato River plummets through a narrow gorge. The entrance to the Huka Falls is free. Via a very short, well-maintained walking path you can get to various viewing platforms around Huka Falls that provide great vantage points to witness the river and cascading water.

One of the most impressive aspects of Huka Falls is its striking blue water and roaring sound. It’s crazy to think that on average, approximately 220,000 liters (58,000 gallons) of water per second plunge over the falls! This generates immense power and creates a roaring sound that adds to the experience.

The power of the Huka Falls originates from the river canyon that narrows abruptly from approximately 100 meters (330 feet) to a mere 15 meters (49 feet) wide. This results in a dramatic rush of water over the volcanic rocks. This creates a lot of foam when the water plunges 11 meters (36 feet) down.

You can see the Huka Falls from various angles. The well-maintained walking paths to the viewing platforms around Huka Falls are easy to follow and surrounded by lush greenery, rocky cliffs and native flora. In combination with the thundering water and striking blue color of the Huka Falls, it is a must-visit in Taupo.

Another great way of experiencing the Huka Falls from up close if by booking this 30 minute jet boat ride to the thundering Huka Falls or go for the Waikato River Jet boat ride. Make sure to book in advance as the 10 seats per slot sell out quickly!

Omaru Falls

The Omaru Falls is an impressive 45-meter-tall curtain waterfall. Located close by Te Kuiti, a gentle 30-minute walk takes you through bush and farmland before reaching the stunning Omaru waterfall. Here you can relax by a picnic spot beside the river or continue up the track which takes you to the lookout point of Omaru Falls. Despite the fact you can’t access the waterfall’s base, it is extremely impressive to admire it from the viewpoint.

Rere Falls

Rere Falls is a spectacular waterfall located in the Gisborne area. This multi-tiered waterfall has a total height of around 5 meters (16 feet), but is very wide with 20 meters! The river flows over a series of rock ledges, creating a striking visual display of water rushing over the steps.

The Rere Falls offers a great opportunity for swimming in the natural pool, and there is also a 30-meter (98-foot) rock which is a natural slide! However, you’ll need to bring something to slide down with such as a bodyboard, inner tube, or something else that is smooth. A fun natural playground to entertain the whole family!

Maraetotara Falls

The Maraetotara Falls might not be on everyone’s radar, but it’s definitely worth a visit in our opinion if you’re exploring the best things to do in Hawkes Bay!

It’s a great way to see the natural beauty of Hawke’s Bay’s forest and river landscape. The trailhead to the waterfall is located about a 15-minute drive from Havelock North. You will find the entrance along the Maraetotara Road, off State Highway 2 between Hastings and Havelock North. Via an easy 0.5-km out-and-back trail you can visit the Maraetotara Falls while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The trail is a gentle walk through a beautiful forest of mature trees, with the sound of the Maraetotara River as a constant companion. It is a perfect family-friendly thing to do in Hawkes Bay and one of the few waterfalls you can visit in this region. The picturesque Maraetotara Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall, cascading down over mossy rocks and surrounded by lush forest. It’s a perfect spot to relax and take in the beautiful scenery. On a warm day you can take a swim in the natural pool, but keep yourself and kids safe from potential current.

Haruru Falls

The Haruru Falls are a short drive outside of KeriKeri located. The wide waterfall of approximately 5 meters in height can be viewed from several vantage points, including a boardwalk that leads to a viewing platform near the base of the falls. The name “Haruru” means “big noise” in Maori, which is a fitting name for the falls as the sound of the water crashing into the pool below can be quite loud, especially during times of high flow.

One of the unique features of Haruru Falls is the opportunity to take a guided canoe trip up the Waitangi River to the base of the waterfall. This allows visitors to experience the beauty of the waterfall up close and also learn about the history and culture of the local Maori people, who have a strong connection to the river and the land surrounding it.

There is also a rope swing which you can access via the tree you have to climb up. Definitely a fun thing to do in the summer months when it’s safe to swim in the natural pool of Haruru Falls. Overall a visit to Haruru Falls is a nice little stop and one of the KeriKeri waterfalls you can’t miss!

Karekare Falls

Karekare Falls is located near the town of Karekare and about 35 kilometers (22 miles) west of Auckland. The waterfall has a vertical drop of approximately 30 meters (98 feet). Karekare Falls cascades over a series of moss-covered rocks, creating a mesmerizing scene as the water flows down to the pool below.

To reach Karekare Falls, you have to follow a short walk from the Karekare Beach car park. The walk to the falls is relatively easy and takes around 20-30 minutes. You will walk along a well-marked trail that winds through the stunning forest.

Dawson Falls

Dawson Falls is located in Mount Egmont National Park, near New Plymouth. Several trails are going to the falls with the quickest being only a 10-minute walk. However, if you want to visit the base of the falls you have to walk down for about 80 meters along a well-maintained staircase.

Wairere Falls

The Wairere Falls is the highest waterfall in the North Island which plunges 153 metres down. The 5 5-kilometer walk takes approximately 3,5 hours to return and is medium to hard. But it is absolutely worth it for the stunning views over Waikato from the top of the waterfall.

Tarawera Falls

The Tarawera Falls are located in Te Urewera National Park near Lake Tarawera and the iconic Mount Tarawera. The stunning Tarawera Falls has a vertical drop of approximately 65 meters (213 feet), making it an impressive sight to behold. The waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff face, creating a stunning display of rushing water. You can reach the Tarawera Falls by hiking through lush native forest, but to reach the parking by car you need to obtain a permit.

What is the best time to visit the New Zealand waterfalls?

If you’re specifically coming to New Zealand to admire the powerful New Zealand waterfalls, then Spring is the best time. The reason is that because of the snowmelt from the winter months, water levels are rising, resulting in more impressive and powerful waterfalls. Additionally, the landscape becomes lush and green during this season, providing beautiful backdrops for your waterfall adventures.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that summer and autumn aren’t great seasons to visit the New Zealand waterfalls as well. Especially autumn is beautiful with the colorful foliage changing to vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, adding an extra layer of beauty to the scenery.

The winter months are a bit tricky for chasing waterfalls in New Zealand because they can be less powerful after a period of cold weather and little rainfall.

Summer is obviously also a great time to visit the New Zealand waterfalls, however it is much warmer and peak season during this time. Resulting in higher prices and the chance of more crowds at the waterfalls. Especially the more famous ones.

How to get around in New Zealand

To experience New Zealand to the fullest and at your own pace, renting a car, campervan or motorhome is the best way to get around. Which one of these options you choose depends on your preference and budget. If you love camping, being outdoors all day and you don’t mind a smaller living space, then renting a camper van is the way to go. It also gives you the freedom to sleep at some of the most beautiful camping spots, but for some of them, you’ll have to make a reservation and plan your trip accordingly. The same goes for a motorhome which is bigger than a campervan and fits about 4-6 people. Here’s what you need to know about renting a car, camper van or motorhome in New Zealand.

Car rental in New Zealand

Renting a car in New Zealand is the easiest and cheapest rental vehicle available. It will get you to all the best destinations with ease and gives you the freedom to stop for a break wherever you want. However, you should keep in mind that some roads in New Zealand are still gravel or that you have to cross shallow rivers to some destinations in National Parks. Therefore we recommend a mini SUV or SUV model to have enough clearance for these kind of roads.

The best place to book your rental car in New Zealand is on Discover Cars where you can compare different car models, prices, companies and terms and conditions. Make sure to secure the booking of your rental car as soon as possible to have the lowest price possible. Prices go up the closer you get to the pick up date.

Campervan rental in New Zealand

Traveling around in a campervan is one of the most popular ways for a road trip in New Zealand. With a bed, small kitchen and seating area you will have all the (basic) needs on four wheels. A campervan allows you to camp at plenty of beautiful places, sometimes for free, sometimes for a fee. It will give you a true feeling of freedom and connects you with nature.

We recommend booking your campervan with Travellers Autobarn. They have a wide range of Station wagons, 2-berth campervans & 3-5 berth campervans to hire for all budgets. All Travellers Autobarn campervan hires in New Zealand come with free unlimited kilometers, 10% discount to premium campgrounds, 24/7 roadside assistance & long-term rental discounts. Check the availability and prices today to secure your campervan for a New Zealand dream road trip!

More New Zealand travel guides

I hope you enjoyed this complete guide about the best New Zealand waterfalls. We have many more New Zealand North Island guides but also New Zealand South Island guides. So make sure to check them out for more tips and to plan your ultimate New Zealand road trip!