Your Epic Guide to the Best Waterfalls, New Zealand: Manawatū-Whanganui Edition

Here is the seventh edition of my epic guide to the best waterfalls in New Zealand – specifically written for the Manawatū-Whanganui region. Below are sixteen amazing waterfalls in Manawatū-Whanganui, complete with all the essential details you need to plan your visit. I’ve mapped them and grouped them for your convenience, so if you’re visiting any of these areas, make a point of checking out a couple of these waterfalls, too!

Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park is a volcanic wonderland, home to not just Mount Tongariro, but Mount Ngauruhoe (recognised as Mount Doom from The Lord Of The Rings Trilogy), and Mount Ruapehu, the North Island’s biggest ski field, as well. Even more special is that the national park is a UNESCO site, a World Heritage Site. The area is still an active volcanic area – Tongariro erupted in 2012.

On top of its volcanoes, it’s also home to these ten beautiful waterfalls..

1. Tupapakurua Falls, Tongariro National Park

General Location: Tupapakurua Falls are just on the outskirts of Tongariro National Park, which is the area home to the three volcanoes in the (near) centre of the North Island. Nearest Civilisation: The closest place of significance to Tupapakurua Falls is National Park, a village actually named National Park, which is where the Northern Explorer Train stops (it runs between the cities of Auckland and Wellington – a ten hour journey). It’s a 13 minute drive from National Park to the Falls, 6 kilometres, or 3 miles.

Immediate Surroundings: The walk to Tupapakurua Falls takes you into the Erua Forest. Waterfall Height: Tupapakurua Falls is 50 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s a great lookout of the Falls.

Getting There: The Tupapakurua Falls Track will get you to Tupapakurua Falls. Track Distance: The Tupapakurua Falls Track is 11 kilometres (7 miles), return. Walk Time: Allow five hours return for Tupapakurua Falls.

Swimming: There is no access from the lookout for swimming. Dogs: Dogs are not allowed at Tupapakurua Falls – unless they have a Department of Conservation permit. Wheelchairs and Prams: The track surface, gradient and stream crossings make the Tupapakurua Falls Walk unsuitable for wheelchairs and prams.

Go, Because: Go, because you’ll get to go to the Tāranaki Lookout and be able to see Mount Tāranaki out in Egmont National Park, on the westernmost tip of the North Island! Something Extra: Stop in National Park for an additional activity, like indoor rock-climbing, mini-golf, or a meal at the pub! Last Updated: October, 2024.

2. Whakapapaiti Waterfall, Tongariro National Park

General Location: Whakapapaiti Waterfall is within the Tongariro National Park, best known for Mount Ruapehu, the North Island’s highest summit. Nearest Civilisation: The Whakapapaiti Waterfall is accessed from Whakapapa Village itself, which is under the northern face of  Mount Ruapehu. Immediate Surroundings: The Whakapapaiti Waterfall sits on the Whakapapaiti Stream. It’s right by Whakapapaiti Hut.

Waterfall Height: Whakapapaiti Falls is 15 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view Whakapapaiti Waterfall from a distance or walk right over to the base. Waterfall Name: The Whakapapaiti Waterfall is named for the Whakapapaiti Stream.

Getting There: You can take part of the six day Round the Mountain Track to Whakapapaiti Waterfall and take both Whakapapiti Valley Track and Silica Rapids Track back (or just go back the way you came; you don’t have to turn it into a loop). You’ll be driving up through Whakapapa Village a little way to one of the Round The Mountain Track access points. It’s the same access point as the Silica Rapids trailhead and the Whakapapaiti Valley Track trailhead.

Track Distance: Whakapapa Village to Whakapapaiti Hut, where Whakapapaiti Waterfall is, is 5 kilometres one way. Walk Time: It’s a three hour return walk to Whakapapaiti Waterfall. Swimming: There are better places to swim, but noone will stop you!

Dogs: Dogs are not allowed anywhere in the national park. Wheelchairs and Prams: The walk to Whakapapiti Waterfall is too rugged for wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because this walk is easily accessed from the village, but a bit longer than some of the other local walks, if you want something a bit more substantial.

Something Extra: The walk to Whakapapaiti Waterfall is part of the Round the Mountain Track – a six day, 66 kilometre circuit walk, if you’re interested in completing it all! Last Updated: October, 2024.

3. Tawhai Falls / Gollum’s Pool, Tongariro National Park

General Location: Tawhai Falls is yet another waterfall in Tongariro National Park on the central plateau of the North Island. Nearest Civilisation: Tawhai Falls is best accessed from Whakapapa Village, which is on the northern side of Mount Ruapehu. Its a 13 minute drive from Whakapapa, 11 kilometres, or 7 miles. It’s actually much the same from the village of National Park, a 10 minute drive, 12 kilometres, 7.5 miles.

Immediate Surroundings: Tawhai Falls are on the Whakapapanui Stream. Waterfall Height: Tawhai Falls are 13 metres high. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can peer over the top from the first lookout and then proceed to the bottom for another view. You can also rockhop as far around to the side as you can go.

Waterfall Name: The tawhai is the silver beech tree – which makes sense, as there is so much beech forest around here. Tahwai Falls is also known as Gollum’s Pool to Lord of the Rings fans. Getting There: Take the Tawhai Falls Walk to Tawhai Falls.

Track Distance: It’s 400 metres to Tawhai Falls and the same back again. Walk Time: It’s less than a quarter of an hour’s walk to Tawhai Falls, and the same back. Some will only need 20 minutes for the return walk.

Swimming: Tawhai Falls is a great one for swimming, albeit a cold one. Dogs: Dogs are not allowed anywhere in Tongariro National Park. Wheelchairs and Prams: The track has some steps so is not suitable for wheelchairs and prams – however, there are only a few steps and the rest of the track is well formed.

Go, Because: Go, because, as the name Gollum’s Pool suggests, this was a filming location for Lord of the Rings! Something Extra: Your something extra is to check out the Mounds Walk, the next-closest short walk (there are so many in this area). The Mounds Walk is an easy twenty minutes and you will get good views of the volcanoes and also see some mounds that have been formed by the volcanic activity here thousands of years ago. Last Updated: October, 2024.

4. Mahuia Rapids, Tongariro National Park

General Location: Mahuia Rapids are in Tongariro National Park, which occupies the central volcanic plateau of the North Island. Nearest Civilisation: Mahuia Rapids are best accessed from Whakapapa Village – it’s a 15 minute drive from Whakapapa, 15 kilometres, or 9 miles. It’s a pretty similar distance from the village of National Park, too.

Immediate Surroundings: Mahuia Rapids are on the Whakapapanui Stream, same as Tawhai Falls. Waterfall Height: Mahuia Rapids are really just a pair of cascades, a metre or so high. Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one!

Getting There: There’s no track to Mahuia Rapids as they are right by the highway. Track Distance: There’s no track to Mahuia Rapids as they’re by the highway. Walk Time: There’s no walking involved to see Mahuia Rapids.

Swimming: This is a spot popular with white water kayakers, but not suitable for swimming. Dogs: Dogs are not allowed in Tongariro National Park. Wheelchairs and Prams: Wheelchairs and prams won’t have an issue as Mahuia Rapids are by the highway.

Go, Because: Go, because if, like many, you’re on the highway between Whakapapa Village and the Tokaanu Hot Pools after a day on the ski field, these rapids are right on your way. Something Extra: Downstream you have Toakakura Falls and Matariki Falls, if you can find them! They’re not very well mapped and not visited often, but have a little explore while you’re in the area. Last Updated: October, 2024.

5. Tāranaki Falls, Tongariro National Park

General Location: Tāranaki Falls, contrary to the name, is in Tongariro National Park, on the North Island’s volcanic plateau. Nearest Civilisation: It’s Whakapapa Village itself – the trailhead is in the village near the visitor centre. Immediate Surroundings: I believe that Tāranaki Falls is on the Wairere Stream.

Waterfall Height: Tāranaki Falls is 20 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: You view Tāranaki Falls from the bottom, and you can also view it from the rocks behind it at the base, if you’re careful. Waterfall Name: It is confusing that Tāranaki Falls is not in Tāranaki (or Egmont) National Park, which surrounds Mount Tāranaki, but in Tongariro National Park, instead!

Getting There: You’ll walk the Tāranaki Falls Track to Tāranaki Falls. Track Distance: Tāranaki Falls is accessed via a 6 kilometre loop (4 miles). Walk Time: It’ll take you two hours for the return walk to Tāranaki Falls.

Swimming: Some people swim at Tāranaki Falls but it’s very cold! Dogs: Dogs are not allowed in Tongariro National Park. Wheelchairs and Prams: The Tāranaki Falls track is not wheelchair or pram friendly.

Go, Because: Go, because this is a good walk for showing off the volcanic landscape – dry, tundra covered desert with snowcapped mountains (depending on the time of year) on the horizon. Something Extra: Just off the Tāranaki Falls Track you can detour off onto the Tama Lakes Track, which is a six hour return walk to Tama Lakes. Last Updated: October, 2024.

6. Soda Springs Falls, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Tongariro National Park

General Location: Soda Springs Falls is in Tongariro National Park, which occupies the North Island’s central plateau. It’s on Mount Tongariro itself, which last erupted in 2012. Nearest Civilisation: The nearest place to Soda Springs Falls is National Park village, a 20 minute drive away (20 kilometres, or 12 miles).

Immediate Surroundings: Soda Springs Falls are in the Mangatepōpō Valley and on the Mangatepōpō Stream. Waterfall Height: Soda Springs Falls is 15 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can walk to the base of the Falls.

Waterfall Name: Don’t confuse Soda Springs Falls with Soda Springs in Rotorua, they’re different! Getting There: Soda Springs Walk takes you to Soda Springs Falls. This ten minute track comes off the main trail for the famous day walk, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, that is responsible for attracting many of the walkers in the area, so you’ll be doing over an hour with all the other walkers, first.

Track Distance: It’s a 6 kilometre (3.5 mile) return walk to Soda Springs Falls. Walk Time: The walk to Soda Springs Falls and back to the Mangatepōpō Carpark is two hours. Swimming: Soda Springs Falls are too much of a trickle to get much of a swim in.

Dogs: Dogs are not allowed in Tongariro National Park. Wheelchairs and Prams: Soda Springs Falls is not suited to wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because you’ll have incredible views of the mountains in the area – you’ll be on Mount Tongariro and have Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Ruapehu off to the side.

Something Extra: Your something extra is to continue on to complete the Tongariro Alpine Crossing! Instead of returning to the Mangatepōpō Carpark, carry on through the Mangatepōpō Valley, up to the South Crater, and further up, to the Red Crater, before descending past the Emerald Lakes, Blue Lake, and down into Ketetahi. It’s a 20 kilometre (12.5 miles), one-way walk that will take you eight hours, so the logistics around transport and the need to use a transport operator, plus the popularity of the walk, mean you’ll need to book.

The crossing has been called the best day hike in the country; honestly, if you’re going into Soda Springs anyway, continue planning to do the whole crossing. Last Updated: October, 2024.

7. Ketetahi Falls, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Tongariro National Park

General Location: Ketetahi Falls is in Tongariro National Park, which is on the volcanic plateau in the middle of the North Island. Nearest Civilisation: It’s a half hour drive from Whakapapa Village (36 kilometres, or 22 miles) to Ketetahi Carpark – and much the same from National Park village. Immediate Surroundings: Ketetahi Falls are near the Ketetahi end of the aforementioned famous day walk, the Tongariro Crossing.

Waterfall Height: Ketetahi Falls are 5 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view Ketetahi Falls from its base.

Waterfall Name: The Falls are named after Ketetahi Springs which are on Mount Tongariro. Ketetahi translates to ‘one basket’. The legend of Te Arawa is that he was cold and on top of the mountain, so he asked for three baskets of fire. He only got one, and tossed it down the mountain – now a hot spring.

Getting There: Take the Ketetahi Falls Track to Ketetahi Falls from the Ketetahi Carpark – the end point of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. Track Distance: The walk to Ketetahi Falls is nearly 2 kilometres (1 mile) there and back. Walk Time: It’s a 25 minute return walk to Ketetahi Falls.

Swimming: There is not really any suitable pool at Ketetahi Falls for swimming. Dogs: Dogs are not allowed in Tongariro National Park. Wheelchairs and Prams: This is not suitable terrain for wheelchairs and prams.

Go, Because: Go, because you’ll get to see the Te Maari Crater on the way. Something Extra: Something extra is to consider walking the Tongariro Northern Circuit – it incorporates part of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, but is longer. It’s a three day loop, 43 kilometres, or 27 miles, and one of the ten Great Walks of New Zealand. It will show you all the gems in the crown of this national park. I have a post about what you need to know before booking your place on the trail! Last Updated: October, 2024.

8. Mangawhero Falls, Tongariro National Park

General Location: Mangawhero Falls is part of the Tongariro National Park, occupying the central volcanic plateau of the North Island. Nearest Civilisation: Mangawhero Falls are nearest Ohakune, a small town on the other side of Mount Ruapehu, and the base for snow sport enthusiasts using the other skifield on the mountain (Turoa Skifield). Ohakune is a 20 minute drive from the Falls (16 kilometres, 10 miles).

Immediate Surroundings: Mangawhero Falls is on the south-western facing slopes of Mount Ruapehu and is on the Mangawhero River. Waterfall Height: Mangawhero Falls is 28 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view Managwhero Falls from the lookout, a couple of minutes from the roadside, and there’s a lookout over the top if you continue for another couple of minutes.

Waterfall Name: There’s some confusion here, as Mangawhero Falls are sometimes referred to as Gollum’s Pool – when Tawhai Falls, on the other side of the mountain, are, too. The understanding I have is that Mangawhero Falls is used in The Fellowship of the Ring when Gollum catches a fish and Tawhai Falls is used as The Forbidden Pool in The Two Towers when Gollum is captured by Frodo.. In any case, Mangawhero translates as ‘red stream’.

Getting There: You’ll need to take the Mangawhero Falls Walk to Mangawhero Falls. Track Distance: Managwhero Falls Walk is only three hundred hundred metres return, so an easy stroll. Walk Time: Mangawhero Falls Walk is less than ten minutes, return.

Swimming: There is no easy access to the bottom of Mangawhero Falls for swimming. Dogs: Dogs are not allowed in Tongariro National Park. Wheelchairs and Prams: Steps mean the Mangawhero Falls walk is not suitable for wheelchairs and prams.

Go, Because: Go, because this was a filming location for Lord of the Rings and well worth checking out, whether you’re a fan or not! Something Extra: As you go through Ohakune, keep your eyes peeled (haha) for the giant carrot that the town is so well known for. It’s the Carrot Capital of New Zealand. (Market Gardening is a big thing for this part of New Zealand). Last Updated: October, 2024.

9. Waitonga Falls, Tongariro National Park

General Location: Waitonga Falls is on the south-western slope of Mount Ruapehu, the North Island’s highest peak. They are located within Tongariro National Park which spans this volcanic area. Nearest Civilisation: From the town of Ohakune, it’s a 17 minute drive (15 kilometres, 9 miles) to Waitonga Falls.

Immediate Surroundings: I believe Waitonga Falls sits on the Mangawhero River. Waterfall Height: Waitonga Falls is 39 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: The track will take you to the base of Waitonga Falls.

Getting There: You’ll need to take the Waitonga Falls Walk to Waitonga Falls. Track Distance: The Waitonga Falls Walk is 4 kilometres (2.5 miles), return. Walk Time: Allow an hour twenty for the Waitonga Falls Walk.

Swimming: There are places more suited to swimming than Waitonga Falls, but you’ll definitely be doing some rock hopping to get up close. Dogs: Dogs are forbidden in Tongariro National Park. Wheelchairs and Prams: Waitonga Falls is not wheelchair or pram friendly due to lots of steps and narrow boardwalks.

Go, Because: Go, because Waitonga Falls is the tallest waterfall in Tongariro National Park. Something Extra: Spot the reflection of Mount Ruapehu in the Rotokawa Pools (you’ll go past them), which is amazing on a still day. Last Updated: October, 2024.

10. Ohakune Mountain Falls, Tongariro National Park

General Location: Ohakune Mountain Falls is our tenth waterfall in the Tongariro National Park, on the volcanic central plateau of the North Island. Nearest Civilisation: From Ohakune, the Falls are an 18 minute drive, about 16 kilometres, or 10 miles. Immediate Surroundings: Like the two waterfalls above, Ohakune Mountain Falls sits on the Mangawhero River.

Waterfall Height: Ohakune Mountain Falls is 10-15 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view Ohakune Mountain Falls from the roadside, or rock hop up the river bed to the base. Waterfall Name: Sometimes Ohakune Mountain Falls is referred to as Lower Mangawhero Falls.

Getting There: You can see Ohakune Mountain Falls from the Ohakune Mountain Road – and also the Waitonga Falls Walk (from the bridge across the river at the start of the track), if you’re doing that anyway, to go and see Waitonga Falls. Track Distance: There is no track to Ohakune Mountain Falls as its a roadside waterfall. The most you’ll need to walk is 400 metres return if you want to get up close.

Walk Time: It’s five minutes return to the base of Ohakune Mountain Falls, but you can also see it from the road. Swimming: You can get up close to the waterfall’s base if you’re careful, by going along the river bed. There’s a pool you could swim in if you are especially keen.

Dogs: Dogs are not allowed in Tongariro National Park. Wheelchairs and Prams: You can see Ohakune Mountain Falls from the road, so in that sense, it is accessibility friendly. Go, Because: Go, because it’s easy to get to and view, and with two other great waterfalls on the same road (and river), worth checking off as well.

Something Extra: As you return to Ohakune, pay a quick visit to the Ohakune Carrot Adventure Park, which is over the road from the giant carrot. It’s a great play space for kids and has carrot statues, a walk, a bike track, a playground, a flying fox, an obstacle course and picnic areas. Last Updated: October, 2024.

Whanganui & Surrounds

The Manawatū-Whanganui Region, is, rather obviously, an area that spans the
Manawatū District, of which Palmerston North is the main hub, and the Whanganui District, of which the city of Whanganui is the main hub. This next waterfall is not in Whanganui itself, but it’s not far away.

11. Ototoka Falls

General Location: Ototoka Falls are right out on the coast, on the stretch between the North Island’s westernmost tip and its southernmost tip. Nearest Civilisation: Ototoka Falls is a bit north of the city of Whanganui, a 25 minute drive, to be exact (23 kilometres, or 14 miles). Immediate Surroundings: Ototoka Falls – both the upper waterfall and lower waterfall, are on the Ototoka Stream, not far from Ototoka Beach.

Waterfall Height: Ototoka Falls are 5 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: You can view Ototoka Falls from the bridge, which is at the bottom of the upper waterfall and the top of the lower waterfall. You will also see the Falls side-on as the trail descends down past them towards the beach.

Waterfall Name: I believe that Ototoka’s name meaning is tied up with the shell, rock and sand which are in abundance between the river mouth and the sea. The beach has even had 1.5 million old fossils found on it!! Getting There: To get to Ototoka Falls, you just need to walk down the track that leads to Ototoka Beach.

Track Distance: It’s only a few hundred metres down to Ototoka Falls and Ototoka Beach. Walk Time: Allow ten minutes return if you are just going to Ototoka Falls and back without visiting the beach. Swimming: The access for swimming could be a little tricky at Ototoka Falls.

Dogs: Have dogs on a leash if you are headed out this way. Wheelchairs and Prams: It’s just a little trail down to the Falls and beach so is not the best for wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because this little gem is still quite local to Whanganui if you are on your way through the area.

Something Extra: Definitely check out the black sand beach while you are visiting Ototoka Falls! Last Updated: October, 2024.

Rangitīkei District

The Rangitīkei District runs underneath the central volcanic plateau of the North Island and out to the south western corner of the island. It’s got unbeatable scenery, charming little towns, and is still close enough to that trio of volcanos for those mountain views.

12. Raukawa Falls

General Location: Raukawa Falls sits on State Highway 4, which runs past Mount Ruapehu, the North Island’s tallest summit, and down to the coast, to the city of Whanganui. The Falls are about halfway between the mountain and the sea, down this stretch of highway.

Nearest Civilisation: Although there are little tiny places down the highway, the closest place you might recognise is Ohakune, one of a couple of bases for snow sport enthusiasts in the winter. That’s off the main highway though, and its more likely you’d be coming past from directly north (National Park village) or directly south (Whanganui City). It’s about equidistant from both (three quarters of an hour to an hour’s drive away, about 60 kilometres, or 37 miles from each).

Immediate Surroundings: Raukawa Falls sits on the Mangawhero River. Waterfall Height: Raukawa Falls is 15 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s a viewing platform for Raukawa Falls off the main highway.

Getting There: There’s no track to Raukawa Falls – you can see it from the road. Track Distance: No need for walking to Raukawa Falls! Walk Time: It’s a two minute stop if you want to park up and get out of the car for a better look at Raukawa Falls.

Swimming: There is no access to the bottom of Raukawa Falls for swimming. Dogs: If your dog is in the car with you, they can technically see Raukawa Falls from the lookout, too. Wheelchairs and Prams: Raukawa Falls is technically accessible as you can see it from the side of the road.

Go, Because: Go, because it’s a pretty waterfall and a good quick leg stretch on your way to or from Whanganui. Something Extra: This actually had me stumped, because there is nothing else here. However, State Highway 4 is New Zealand’s Adventure Highway! So I’d encourage you to pull open this awesome map by Visit Ruapehu and check to see if any other parts of your trip fall along the route. Last Updated: October, 2024.

Ruahine Ranges

The lower North Island is as equally fortunate as the upper half when it comes to forest parks, and the Ruahine Ranges are just one of those barely-touched, forested areas. This next waterfall is a bit of a hotspot for swimmers and picnickers, best visited on a summer’s day.

13. Ruahine Dress Circle Waterfall, Ruahine Dress Circle Scenic Reserve

General Location: Ruahine Dress Circle Waterfall is on the fringe of the Ruahine Forest Park, which covers the Ruahine Ranges as they run from the central North Island, down, stopping shy of the city of Palmerston North, the capital of the Manawatū district. Nearest Civilisation: The smallest little place to Ruahine Dress Circle Waterfall is the Gumboot Capital of New Zealand, tiny Taihape, which is a half hour drive away (34 kilometres, or 21 miles), but if you’re visiting the Manawatū, there’s a good chance you’re on your way in or out of Palmerston North, which is just over an hour’s drive away.

Immediate Surroundings: Ruahine Dress Circle Waterfall is, rather obviously, situated in the Ruahine Dress Circle Scenic Reserve. The stream is the Mangawharariki Stream. Waterfall Viewpoints: There’s an aerial view of the scenic reserve by the roadside (Ruahine Road Lookout) and a different road that will take you off into the swimming, picnic and waterfall area.

Waterfall Name: Ruahine Dress Circle is named after the dress circle of an opera house that the cliffs around the area reminded early settlers of. Getting There: Follow signs to the Ruahine Dress Circle Scenic Reserve and you’ll find the waterfall flowing into the swimming hole. Track Distance: It’s a short walk to all the best features of the Ruahine Dress Circle Scenic Reserve. The waterfall is right above the swimming hole.

Walk Time: It’s a really short walk to the waterfall from the carpark – allow a few minutes to get there. Swimming: The Ruahine Dress Circle is a favourite swimming and picnicking spot, so make sure you have a swim in the swimming hole while you are there. Dogs: Dogs are allowed here but educate yourself on how to spot any toxic algae in the water and don’t let them drink from it.

Wheelchairs and Prams: Part of the way there is a flat grassy path that would perhaps be doable for wheelchairs and prams but nearer the swimming hole it can get a bit rocky. Go, Because: Go, because this is an epic swimming spot and has been for decades.

Something Extra: The Ruahine Dress Circle Scenic Reserve sits on the Manawatū Scenic Route – it’s only an hour and a half to drive the whole thing from Mangaweka to Āpiti but consider taking your time to enjoy all the scenery on the way. Last Updated: October, 2024.

Tararua District

The Tararua District is named for the Tararua Ranges, which you can see the top of in this map below. The forest park in the ranges is yet another of the North Island’s native forests, and the waterfalls found in this district are no less special.

14. Foulds Falls, Sledge Track, Tararua Ranges

General Location: Foulds Falls is on the Sledge Track, a popular spot in the very northern tip of the Tararua Ranges, which is yet another North Island Forest Park running south, down into the Wellington Region. Nearest Civilisation: The city of Palmerston North is perfectly situated at the bottom end of the Ruahine Ranges and the top end of the Tararua Ranges. From Palmerston North to the Sledge Track, it is a half hour drive (17 kilometres, 10.5 miles).

Immediate Surroundings: The Sledge Track is in the Kahuterawa Valley and the area is just generally referred to as the Kahuterawa Recreation Hub. The stream is the Kahuterawa Stream. Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one!

Getting There: Foulds Falls is accessed from the Sledge Track. It’s a family friendly walk that passes a swimming hole, the Argyle Rocks, and goes over the 22 metre long Arapuke Swing Bridge into Arapuke Forest Park (known for an excellent mountain bike park!). Track Distance: Foulds Falls is within the first kilometre (half mile) from the start to my knowledge.

Walk Time: Walking to the swimming hole and waterfall is about a quarter of an hour each way. There are so many tracks you can form circuits with and you can walk for half an hour, or seven hours, depending on what you’d like to do. Swimming: Definitely swim here! It’s a great spot.

Dogs: Dogs can visit Foulds Falls but need to be on a leash. Wheelchairs and Prams: The track has rocky patches and is probably not suitable for wheelchairs and prams. Go, Because: Go, because this is a short, customisable and beautiful walk, making it a good introduction to the Tararua Ranges for all ages.

Something Extra: Consider bringing a mountain bike and making use of the Arapuke Mountain Bike Park; you’ll access it a slightly different way but it’s not far away. Last Updated: October, 2024.

15. Mangaharakeikei Falls, Tararua Ranges

General Location: Mangaharakeikei Falls is in the northern tip of the Tararua Ranges, a little way south of Palmerston North, the capital of the Manawatū district. Nearest Civilisation: It’s a half hour drive between the city of Palmerston North and Mangaharakeikei Falls, 28 kilometres, or 17 miles. Immediate Surroundings: Mangaharakeikei Falls is just off the Tokomaru River.

Waterfall Height: Mangaharakeikei Falls is an impressive 60 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: Mangaharakeikei Falls is viewed from a distance, from the road. Getting closer involves going onto private land. Getting There: You can see Mangaharakeikei Falls from the road, so it’s an easy waterfall to go see!

Track Distance: There is no track to Mangaharakeikei Falls. Walk Time: You’ll only need a minute to catch sight of Mangaharakeikei Falls from the road. Swimming: There is no up close access to Mangaharakeikei Falls for swimming.

Dogs: Dogs can view Mangaharakeikei Falls from a distance with you. Wheelchairs and Prams: Wheelchair and pram users will be able to view Mangaharakeikei Falls from the roadside. Go, Because: Go, because the height of this waterfall makes it a truly impressive view.

Something Extra: Go check out Horseshoe Bend Reserve as well – it’s up the river and only fifteen minutes away by car, and there are great swimming holes and picnic spots. Last Updated: October, 2024.

16. Mangatiti Falls

General Location: Mangatiti Falls is over on the eastern side of the lower North Island, just above the Wellington Region border. It would be considered part of the Wairarapa, the south eastern corner of the North Island running between the coastline and the eastern Tararua Ranges. Nearest Civilisation: Incredibly remote, Mangatiti Falls is nearly two hours from both Palmerston North and Masterton. It’s about as isolated as they come!

Immediate Surroundings: Mangatiti Falls are on the Aohanga River. Waterfall Height: Mangatiti Falls are 25 metres tall. Waterfall Viewpoints: Just the one!

Getting There: Mangatiti Falls is on private land and so contact with the landowners needs to be made. Waterfalls New Zealand provide instructions and contact details here. Track Distance: It’s around a couple of kilometres in and a couple of kilometres out to Managtiti Falls – it’s not an official walk.

Walk Time: It’s a two hour return walk to Mangatiti Falls. Swimming: Mangatiti Falls is not suited for swimming. Dogs: Dogs should stay at home if you are going across private land to see Mangatiti Falls. Wheelchairs and Prams: The walk is on a 4WD track and so is not suited to wheelchairs and prams.

Go, Because: Go, because Mangatiti Falls are quite amazing if it has been raining recently! Something Extra: There really is not much out here – it is quite literally the middle of nowhere! If you are passing through however, it’s likely you are travelling between the cities of Napier and Wellington, so do stop at the remote Castlepoint lighthouse on your way south through the Wairarapa area. Last Updated: October, 2024.

That brings us to the end of the seventh edition of New Zealand’s best waterfalls. Do come back to this post to remind yourself of these sixteen unique waterfalls the next time you are travelling down the North Island or venturing into the mountains, to add some points of interest to your travels! While it is unlikely you’ll be making a special trip for any of these, (as it’s the hikes, lakes, and skifields and volcanoes that attract visitors to the region), these sixteen waterfalls are great little add-ons from whatever it is that has called you to the region. Happy exploring!