15 Stunning Waterfalls to Add to Your NZ Bucket List
24 MAY 2025
There’s something magical about waterfalls. Whether it’s the thunderous roar echoing through a forest or a gentle cascade tucked into a mossy nook, they have a way of making you pause and soak it all in (sometimes literally). Luckily, New Zealand is packed with waterfalls of all shapes and sizes — from short walks to epic multi-drop falls hidden in native bush. Some of the best we have seen are in the Catlins and Milford Sound from the cruise boat and we're continuously finding any and all waterfalls!
We’ve explored a bunch over the years, and these stand out as some of the most scenic falls in their own unique way. Where ever you're travelling to in New Zealand, there's usually a waterfall or two near by!
So grab your rain jacket and a camera — here are 15 waterfalls in NZ worth adding to your must-see list.
We’ve explored a bunch over the years, and these stand out as some of the most scenic falls in their own unique way. Where ever you're travelling to in New Zealand, there's usually a waterfall or two near by!
So grab your rain jacket and a camera — here are 15 waterfalls in NZ worth adding to your must-see list.
1. Devils Punchbowl Falls, Arthurs Pass
This is one of those waterfalls that you can often feel before you see, depending on how windy it is! Devil’s Punchbowl Falls is one of the standout stops in Arthur’s Pass — a seriously impressive 131-metre waterfall that thunders down the mountainside into a misty basin below. It’s one of the highest waterfalls in the area and one of the most dramatic we have seen in New Zealand, especially after rain.
The walk to the falls is just under 1 km each way (about a 20–30 minute return walk), with some stairs and a few uphill sections but it’s well maintained track and easy enough for most. You’ll wind through beech forest and cross a couple of bridges before reaching the viewing platform, which sits right near the base of the falls! You’ll likely get a bit of spray, especially on windy days, so bring a raincoat if you want to spend some time here! And a cloth if you're taking photos on your camera - you'll need to be wiping your lense quite often.
If you’re driving through Arthur’s Pass, definitely make time to stop here - it’s short, it’s stunning and the power of the falls is unforgettable.
The walk to the falls is just under 1 km each way (about a 20–30 minute return walk), with some stairs and a few uphill sections but it’s well maintained track and easy enough for most. You’ll wind through beech forest and cross a couple of bridges before reaching the viewing platform, which sits right near the base of the falls! You’ll likely get a bit of spray, especially on windy days, so bring a raincoat if you want to spend some time here! And a cloth if you're taking photos on your camera - you'll need to be wiping your lense quite often.
If you’re driving through Arthur’s Pass, definitely make time to stop here - it’s short, it’s stunning and the power of the falls is unforgettable.
2. Nichols Falls, Dunedin
Nichols Falls is a bit of a hidden gem tucked into the north east valley in Dunedin and as it's not a popular track, you may have this place all to yourself. The walk to the falls is about 20 minutes each way, depending on how muddy it is and the track winds gently through lush, green native bush, with tree roots and ferns all around - it's seriously beautiful! If you take the time to look around, you'll find tiny little fungi growing on logs.
The waterfall itself isn’t huge — around 10–15 metres — but it’s tall and narrow with a lovely mossy backdrop. It's a beautiful scene to take photos, especially long exposure shots as it's generally sheltered from the sun so the photos won't end up over exposed (you still will need to plan for the sun coming through the trees at some point during the day).
7 mins from the waterfall is a glowworm grotto, which is worth checking out at night if you're keen for a second little adventure in the same spot.
The waterfall itself isn’t huge — around 10–15 metres — but it’s tall and narrow with a lovely mossy backdrop. It's a beautiful scene to take photos, especially long exposure shots as it's generally sheltered from the sun so the photos won't end up over exposed (you still will need to plan for the sun coming through the trees at some point during the day).
7 mins from the waterfall is a glowworm grotto, which is worth checking out at night if you're keen for a second little adventure in the same spot.
3. Whangarei Falls, Northland
Whangarei Falls is one of those classic, picture-perfect waterfalls that feels like it should be on a postcard. It's located a short drive from Whangarei town and is super easy to get to and you don’t even need to walk far to enjoy the view. The main lookout is just a couple of minutes from the carpark. We walked a different track to get to the waterfall which was really beautiful but if you're short on time, the main carpark is where you want to begin.
You can see the waterfall from the base as well as from the top or enjoy it from the very beautiful bridge. It’s especially stunning after heavy rain (as are most waterfalls) when the falls are at full force — though even in dry weather, it’s still a gorgeous spot. It can get a little wet the closer you go to the waterfall so bring your raincoat or enjoy from afar!
Read more about the Whangarei Falls
You can see the waterfall from the base as well as from the top or enjoy it from the very beautiful bridge. It’s especially stunning after heavy rain (as are most waterfalls) when the falls are at full force — though even in dry weather, it’s still a gorgeous spot. It can get a little wet the closer you go to the waterfall so bring your raincoat or enjoy from afar!
Read more about the Whangarei Falls
4. Coal Creek Falls, Greymouth
One of the things we love about the West Coast region is how quiet so many of the tracks are because they are never overrun, meaning you can enjoy the place you've hiked to, which is the whole point - to actually enjoy nature!
The Coal Creek Falls track is a quiet, easy 1 hour return walk through the West Coast rainforest where you pass by gnarly, twisted branches that look like they belong in a goblin forest.
The waterfall pours over a wide rock face and although it's not a tall waterfall, it's still really impressive! This waterfall is one of the highlights in Greymouth.
Read more about the Coal Creek waterfall
The Coal Creek Falls track is a quiet, easy 1 hour return walk through the West Coast rainforest where you pass by gnarly, twisted branches that look like they belong in a goblin forest.
The waterfall pours over a wide rock face and although it's not a tall waterfall, it's still really impressive! This waterfall is one of the highlights in Greymouth.
Read more about the Coal Creek waterfall
5. Matai Falls, Catlins
The Catlins has some of the most beautiful waterfalls in New Zealand - the high rainfall in the area has something to do with it - and the Matai Falls is a small waterfall that we love walking to. The track is 1.2 km and it takes you over the Matai Stream and through lush native bush where moss grows on the trees and cute fungi grows on fallen logs. You'll most likely have a curious fantail or two flitting around and following you to the falls - we had a few, and they were very cute accompaniments. There’s a nice viewing platform at the falls and if you’re up for a little extra, you can check out the nearby Horseshoe Falls too (see number 6) - it's only a couple of minutes up some stairs past the Matai Falls.
For a bit more history and exploration, the Matai Rail Trail branches off nearby. This takes you along an old railway line through the forest, with some info panels along the way. We wandered along for a little while but didn't find it overly exciting so we turned back.
For a bit more history and exploration, the Matai Rail Trail branches off nearby. This takes you along an old railway line through the forest, with some info panels along the way. We wandered along for a little while but didn't find it overly exciting so we turned back.
6. Horsehoe Falls, Catlins
Just a short detour from the Matai Falls track (number 5), Horseshoe Falls is worth the extra few minutes up the track. It’s a small waterfall but (depending on the amount of water) it has a cool horseshoe-shaped bend that gives it its name. It wasn't there for us as there hadn't been much rain before our waterfall but I can sort of see how it would flow in that shape!
When the river is flowing well, the falls look stunning, framed by thick native bush that the Catlins is famous for.
When the river is flowing well, the falls look stunning, framed by thick native bush that the Catlins is famous for.
7. McLean Falls, Catlins
McLean Falls is one of the most incredible waterfalls in the Catlins and New Zealand! It's known for its impressive 22-meter drop and stunning multi-tiered cascade. The scene feels so untouched and dramatic - it’s a perfect example of the wild, green beauty the Catlins are famous for.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can walk to the first tier of the waterfall where there is a pool below or stand there for photos like Lath did - just be sure to wear something colourful, as you can see he was wearing a camo jacket with orange lining which he had to open out for me to be able to spot him!
I would recommend this waterfall or Purakaunui Falls if you have to only choose one for your Catlins adventure.
Read more about the McLeans Waterfall
If you're feeling adventurous, you can walk to the first tier of the waterfall where there is a pool below or stand there for photos like Lath did - just be sure to wear something colourful, as you can see he was wearing a camo jacket with orange lining which he had to open out for me to be able to spot him!
I would recommend this waterfall or Purakaunui Falls if you have to only choose one for your Catlins adventure.
Read more about the McLeans Waterfall
8. Carew Creek Falls, West Coast
Carew Creek Falls is a 30-meter waterfall near Lake Brunner on the West Coast. The water flows over large granite rocks and it is actually a lot bigger than it looks captured in photos! There is a big pool at the base of the falls and then the water continues down more boulders. Take a look behind you at the waterfall too as it's a really nice view across country on a clear day.
The track to the falls is 1 hour return and it takes you through beautiful bush where we saw interesting designs on tree bark, skeleton leaves and loved seeing the green moss growing all over everything - this is why we LOVE the West Coast!
Read more about the Carew Creek Falls
The track to the falls is 1 hour return and it takes you through beautiful bush where we saw interesting designs on tree bark, skeleton leaves and loved seeing the green moss growing all over everything - this is why we LOVE the West Coast!
Read more about the Carew Creek Falls
9. Thunder Creek Falls, West Coast
Thunder Creek Falls is a powerful 28 meter waterfall that drops straight into the Haast River. It's a tall, narrow fall that punches through the bush and lands with force, especially after rain. The backdrop is classic West Coast — thick forest, wet rock, and that misty, moody atmosphere that makes everything feel bigger. You can't get close to the waterfall as the viewing platform is on the other side of the river - you're still fairy close to appreciate it!
You don’t need to hike to get to this waterfall either, it's only a couple of minutes from the carpark and you get to walk through the most beautiful green rainforest that NZ has to offer. You'll find the waterfall along State Highway 6 on the West Coast. There's plenty of parking and it can often be a busy spot with tourists - once we pulled up as a tourist bus did but luckily the passengers were fairly slow, so we fast walked so we could get ahead before they took over the platform.
You don’t need to hike to get to this waterfall either, it's only a couple of minutes from the carpark and you get to walk through the most beautiful green rainforest that NZ has to offer. You'll find the waterfall along State Highway 6 on the West Coast. There's plenty of parking and it can often be a busy spot with tourists - once we pulled up as a tourist bus did but luckily the passengers were fairly slow, so we fast walked so we could get ahead before they took over the platform.
10. Purakaunui Falls, Catlins
Purakaunui Falls is one of the most recognisable waterfalls in the Catlins and for good reason. It’s a 20-meter, three-level cascade that spreads out over wide, flat rock ledges, creating that perfect layered look you’ve probably seen on postcards and Instagram. The amount of rainfall in the area definitely has a lot to do with how full the falls will look when you visit and we were very lucky that it was on full display when we visited.
The track to the falls is about 20 minutes return and takes you through typical Catlins bush — lots of green, moss, tree roots and a few scattered boulders. It finishes with a short set of stairs down to the viewing platform where you get the full view of the falls head-on. Easy walk, solid payoff!
Read more about Purakaunui Falls
The track to the falls is about 20 minutes return and takes you through typical Catlins bush — lots of green, moss, tree roots and a few scattered boulders. It finishes with a short set of stairs down to the viewing platform where you get the full view of the falls head-on. Easy walk, solid payoff!
Read more about Purakaunui Falls
11. Wainui Falls, Abel Tasman
Wainui Falls is the biggest waterfall in Abel Tasman National Park. It’s a 20-meter drop into a blue pool of water that would be inviting on a hot summer's day, I'm sure! The waterfall is in such a lush setting and there are rocks nearby that you can sit on to enjoy the view.
The track to Wainui Falls is one of our favourite walks in New Zealand — it feels totally different from anywhere else. Giant nikau palms tower overhead, the rivers are clear and blue and you might spot some giant snails hanging around which can be the size of your hand! The track skirts right along the edge of Abel Tasman National Park, and you actually pass a sign letting you know you’re officially inside the park. It’s about a 2 hour return walk but we always take longer because there is so much beauty to see along the way before you get to the falls.
The track to Wainui Falls is one of our favourite walks in New Zealand — it feels totally different from anywhere else. Giant nikau palms tower overhead, the rivers are clear and blue and you might spot some giant snails hanging around which can be the size of your hand! The track skirts right along the edge of Abel Tasman National Park, and you actually pass a sign letting you know you’re officially inside the park. It’s about a 2 hour return walk but we always take longer because there is so much beauty to see along the way before you get to the falls.
12. Milford Sound Cruise, Fiordland
Milford Sound is home to some of New Zealand’s most jaw-dropping waterfalls — so much so that people travel halfway across the world just to see them. These falls aren’t just big; they’re monumental, crashing down sheer cliffs with an epic force you have to see to believe. Fiordland gets a ton of rain every year, so if you visit during or after heavy rain, prepare to have your mind blown. It might sound dramatic, but it’s absolutely true!!
On the Milford Sound cruise, you will experience Bowen Falls, dropping a staggering 162 meters in one thunderous plunge straight into the fiord - it’s iconic and impossible to miss. There's also Stirling Falls, standing tall at around 151 meters. The cruise boats in Milford Sound take you directly beneath one of the waterfalls and it's an absolutely incredible experience where you can stay up on top deck and get absolutely soaked or enjoy the drama from behind the windows down below deck.
There are smaller waterfalls all around and after heavy rain it becomes like something out of a dream. Look high into the mountains and you’ll barely believe how many there are and how far up they start!
Getting up close to these waterfalls — hearing the roar, feeling the spray and taking in the towering cliffs — it’s no wonder people from all over the world make Milford Sound a must-see. It’s pure, unfiltered nature at its most spectacular and I highly recommend doing this at least once!
And don’t forget — as you drive into Milford Sound, you’re treated to hundreds of waterfalls lining the way, setting the scene for what’s to come.
Read more about the Milford Sound Cruise
On the Milford Sound cruise, you will experience Bowen Falls, dropping a staggering 162 meters in one thunderous plunge straight into the fiord - it’s iconic and impossible to miss. There's also Stirling Falls, standing tall at around 151 meters. The cruise boats in Milford Sound take you directly beneath one of the waterfalls and it's an absolutely incredible experience where you can stay up on top deck and get absolutely soaked or enjoy the drama from behind the windows down below deck.
There are smaller waterfalls all around and after heavy rain it becomes like something out of a dream. Look high into the mountains and you’ll barely believe how many there are and how far up they start!
Getting up close to these waterfalls — hearing the roar, feeling the spray and taking in the towering cliffs — it’s no wonder people from all over the world make Milford Sound a must-see. It’s pure, unfiltered nature at its most spectacular and I highly recommend doing this at least once!
And don’t forget — as you drive into Milford Sound, you’re treated to hundreds of waterfalls lining the way, setting the scene for what’s to come.
Read more about the Milford Sound Cruise
13. Huka Falls, Taupo
Huka Falls is one of New Zealand's most famous landmarks and for good reason. The Waikato River funnels through a narrow canyon and crashes over the falls with a deafening roar — about 220,000 litres of water thunder through every second which is insane!! It's quite overwhelming to look below and see how powerful it is and just looking at the volume of whitewash makes you want to step back a little from the railing! The platforms are easy to reach from the car park and it's a short walk that’s good for all ages and fitness levels. From the platforms you can watch the river surge through, crashing over the 11-meter drop, and swirling wildly in the pool below.
There’s also a walking track that follows the Waikato River both upstream and downstream from the falls where the river is a lot calmer than it is downstream. Or if you're feeling more adventurous then you can get really up and close to the falls in a jet boat!
There’s also a walking track that follows the Waikato River both upstream and downstream from the falls where the river is a lot calmer than it is downstream. Or if you're feeling more adventurous then you can get really up and close to the falls in a jet boat!
14. Bridal Veil Falls, Hamilton
Bridal Veil Falls is an impressive waterfall set in the beautiful Waikato bush. The waterfall drops 55 metres in one clean, steady fall straight down a cliff face. It’s not wild or thunderous like some others but it is still very beautiful.
The walk from the carpark only takes about 10 minutes one way and leads you to the upper viewing platform first. From there, you’re looking straight down falls where you can see it dropping into the pool below. There’s another track with stairs that takes you all the way down to the base of the falls where you can watch the waterfall from a wooden viewing platform.
The walk from the carpark only takes about 10 minutes one way and leads you to the upper viewing platform first. From there, you’re looking straight down falls where you can see it dropping into the pool below. There’s another track with stairs that takes you all the way down to the base of the falls where you can watch the waterfall from a wooden viewing platform.
15. Washpen Falls, Windwhistle
Washpen Falls was one of those walks we did with zero expectations and ended up loving. It’s on private farmland in Windwhistle (you pay a small fee at the honesty box), and the loop track takes about 2 hours to complete but it took us longer as we stopped so much to take in the beautiful views.
The main waterfall is at the bottom of a volcanic canyon and is set deep in the bush. There is a small wooden bridge where you can view the waterfall from or just walk either side of the bridge to get a little closer. It's one of those huge, thunderous waterfalls but a truly beautiful one you can sit and appreciate.
Right at the start of the track, inside the big shed, there are old black and white photos of families from the 1800s having picnics at the falls in full fancy outfits, champagne and teacups in hand - how cool is that!!
The main waterfall is at the bottom of a volcanic canyon and is set deep in the bush. There is a small wooden bridge where you can view the waterfall from or just walk either side of the bridge to get a little closer. It's one of those huge, thunderous waterfalls but a truly beautiful one you can sit and appreciate.
Right at the start of the track, inside the big shed, there are old black and white photos of families from the 1800s having picnics at the falls in full fancy outfits, champagne and teacups in hand - how cool is that!!
New Zealand is full of waterfalls and tucked away or roadside, we're constantly chasing waterfalls. These 15 are some of our favourites so far — each with something a little different that makes them worth the stop. We’re always adding new ones to our list as we explore, so if you love a good waterfall as much as we do, keep checking back — there’s plenty more to come as we continue to explore New Zealand.
Planning a trip to New Zealand?
We’ve got you covered with everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. From fully customized itineraries tailored to your interests and group, to expert consultations, detailed maps and insider travel guides — our services take the stress out of planning so you can focus on enjoying your journey. Because we have such an in depth knowledge of travelling New Zealand (full time since 2022!) we're able to offer so much insight into what makes New Zealand so special and where go, beyond the guide books.
Whether you’re exploring solo, traveling with family, or adventuring with friends, we provide personalized support and local knowledge every step of the way. Discover hidden gems, plan your perfect routes, and unlock the best experiences New Zealand has to offer, all in one place.
Ready to start planning your perfect New Zealand adventure?
Click here to explore our services and get started!
We’ve got you covered with everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. From fully customized itineraries tailored to your interests and group, to expert consultations, detailed maps and insider travel guides — our services take the stress out of planning so you can focus on enjoying your journey. Because we have such an in depth knowledge of travelling New Zealand (full time since 2022!) we're able to offer so much insight into what makes New Zealand so special and where go, beyond the guide books.
Whether you’re exploring solo, traveling with family, or adventuring with friends, we provide personalized support and local knowledge every step of the way. Discover hidden gems, plan your perfect routes, and unlock the best experiences New Zealand has to offer, all in one place.
Ready to start planning your perfect New Zealand adventure?
Click here to explore our services and get started!
|
|
|
|
More New Zealand Tips & Guides
SEND US A MESSAGE, WE LOVE GETTING MAIL! |
DISCOVER |
FOLLOW US
BORING (BUT IMPORTANT LEGAL) STUFF |
