Purakaunui Falls

Exploring Purakaunui Falls

(Framed by native forest and cascading 20 metres over 3 tiers, the Pūrākaunui Falls are among the most photographed waterfalls in New Zealand. Enjoy too the soundtrack of native birds and rushing water.

Located just 17kms south of Ōwaka is the Pūrākaunui Falls Scenic Reserve. The Pūrākaunui Falls are a short walk from a car park area through impressive podocarp and beech forest.

The track is suitable for wheelchair access to the top viewing platform. It is then a fairly steep climb downwards to the lower platform which gives an amazing view of these picturesque falls. This makes for stunning photographic opportunities. You will find that not only are the Pūrākaunui Falls in most books about The Catlins, but they have also featured on a New Zealand postage stamp and on many calendars.

The best time for photography is the late autumn when the waterfall is accompanied by colorful trees. Walk from car park to falls – 20 minutes return.)