4 Breathtaking Waterfalls You Have to See in the Catlins

10 MAY 2025

Tucked away on the southern edge of New Zealand’s South Island, the Catlins is packed with wild, untouched beauty - lush forests, rugged coastline and some of the best waterfalls we have seen in New Zealand. The walks to get to them are just as beautiful! Think moss-covered trees, vibrant green everything, cute little fungi popping up along the path and curious fantails flitting around you. In this post, we’re sharing four of our favourite waterfalls in the Catlins - each one with its own unique feel absolutely worth the effort to reach them all. Whether you're into hiking, photography, or just soaking up nature, these are our top 4 waterfalls to visit in the Catlins.

McLean Falls

This is hands-down one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Catlins and New Zealand! The short walk in is super easy and takes around 20–30 minutes through a beautiful patch of native bush. Once you reach the falls, it’s hard not to be blown away - a powerful, multi-tiered waterfall that is truly impressive.

In my opinion, the best place to view it from is the viewing platform but people do climb the rocks to get closer to the waterfall - at your own risk!

→ Check out our full McLean Falls blog for tips, photos, and everything you need to know.

Matai Falls

Matai Falls is a short and easy walk through beautiful forest which is covered in green moss, tiny fungi and we met many sweet little fantails along the track who followed us! The falls themselves are small but so photogenic, cascading gently over mossy rock into a little pool below. A peaceful wee stop that's definitely worth pulling over for.

→ Want all the details? Read our full Matai Falls blog here — the ultimate guide to your visit.

Purakauni Falls

This one’s a classic — probably the most photographed waterfall in the Catlins, and for good reason. The walk is only about 10 minutes through a lovely podocarp forest, and the falls themselves are a beautiful three-tiered curtain tumbling over dark rock. Super photogenic and super peaceful, especially if you manage to time it with no one else around.

→ Read our full Purakaunui Falls blog here — everything you need to know before you go.

Horseshoe Falls

A few minutes further up the same track as Matai Falls, Horseshoe Falls is another beautiful waterfall. It’s smaller and a bit more hidden, but has this lovely curved drop and a tucked-away feel that makes it special. If you’re already at Matai, don’t miss this one as it really is just a few mins up the path!

We last visited when there hadn't been much rainfall and with most of the waterfalls in the Catlins, they are even more impressive after it has rained.

→ Head to our full Horseshoe Falls blog for more info, stunning photos, and everything you need to know.

While Matai Falls, Purakaunui Falls, McLean Falls, and Horseshoe Falls are our top picks, there are a few more tucked away in the Catlins if you’re keen to explore beyond the main spots. Barr Falls, near Owaka, is easy to reach but tends to be more of a trickle, especially in dry seasons (we weren't very impressed!). Just beyond the Otago border in the Chaslands, you’ll find Koropupu Falls.

More Catlins Travel Guides
Planning to see more of the Catlins? These handy guides will help you explore the best of the region:

9 Walks and Hikes to Do in the Catlins
Best Catlins Beaches to Visit
Where to See Wildlife in the Catlins
The Ultimate Guide to the Catlins
Best Spots for Sunrise and Sunset in the Catlins

More Catlins Spots to Explore
Looking for more incredible places nearby? Check out these must-see locations:

Nugget Point Lighthouse – One of the Most Iconic Views in NZ (amazing at sunrise!)
Cannibal Bay – Home to Sea Lions & Seals
Curio Bay – Petrified Forest & Rare Dolphins

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