Taranaki Falls Track
A picturesque 65-foot waterfall cascading over ancient lava flows, accessible via an easy 6km loop track in Tongariro National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Taranaki Falls Track
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque 65-foot waterfall cascading over ancient lava flows, accessible via an easy 6km loop track in Tongariro National Park.
"Absolutely stunning! The whole walk took around 2 hours and it's completely free!"
👟 Easy Loop, Slippery Spots
The 6km loop is mostly flat with some stairs. Be cautious near the falls, especially if going behind them. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Drink Water at Your Own Risk
The water looks clear, but it's best to bring your own water bottle. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Taranaki Falls
Tongariro National Park
A powerful 65-foot waterfall cascading over ancient lava flows. Absolutely stunning!
Volcanic Landscapes
Tongariro National Park
Witness diverse landforms, from tussock fields to beech forests, with volcanic peaks as a backdrop.
Behind the Falls
Taranaki Falls
Carefully explore the area behind the waterfall for a unique perspective and misty photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Taranaki Falls
Embrace the Scenery, Safely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Easy Loop, Slippery Spots
The 6km loop is mostly flat with some stairs. Be cautious near the falls, especially if going behind them. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Drink Water at Your Own Risk
The water looks clear, but it's best to bring your own water bottle. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning mountain vistas and the powerful waterfall. :camerawithflash:
⏱️ Allow 2 Hours
While you can rush it, take your time to enjoy the scenery. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Easy Loop, Slippery Spots
The 6km loop is mostly flat with some stairs. Be cautious near the falls, especially if going behind them. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Drink Water at Your Own Risk
The water looks clear, but it's best to bring your own water bottle. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning mountain vistas and the powerful waterfall. :camerawithflash:
⏱️ Allow 2 Hours
While you can rush it, take your time to enjoy the scenery. :stopwatch:
ℹ️ Visitor Center Check
Pop into the visitor center for the latest track conditions and alerts. :information_desk:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Taranaki Falls for its stunning beauty and accessibility. The easy loop track, combined with breathtaking views of the waterfall and surrounding volcanic landscapes, makes it a highly recommended experience for all ages. While generally well-maintained, some note the potential for slippery conditions near the falls.
"Beautiful waterfall. Very picturesque between the mountains. It's called Taranaki falls because on a clear day you can see Taranaki. Especially amazing in the sunset. It's a very easy loop walk to get to, and recommended for anyone who can climb stairs. You can go behind the waterfall if you want; just be careful on the slippery rocks. The water is also very clear and nice. I drank from it, but I wouldn't necessarily recommend drinking from it 😂😂 that's at your own risk."
Avo Cado
"Taranaki Falls is absolutely stunning!
If you walk at a good pace, you can reach it in about 45 minutes from the car park—but since we took our time for photos along the way, it took us about an hour. The whole walk (return) took around 2 hours. And the best part? It's completely free—no entrance fee!
The trail is peaceful, scenic, and not difficult at all. The journey itself is already beautiful, but the Falls at the end make it totally worth it. Highly recommend this amazing spot!💖"
Julie Fe Pame
"This is an amazing loop hike. You can see several waterfalls with the Taranaki Falls being the highlight. Many river and stream crossing along with forest paths and shrub walks. It’s an amazing hike that should not be missed."
Ben Park
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Taranaki Falls Track is located in Tongariro National Park, near Whakapapa Village. You can drive to the Whakapapa Village and follow signs to the Taranaki Falls car park. It's a popular starting point for many walks in the area.
Yes, there is a dedicated car park for the Taranaki Falls Track. It can get busy, especially during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.
Public transport options to Tongariro National Park are limited. If you're not driving, consider joining a guided tour that includes Taranaki Falls or arranging a shuttle service from nearby towns like Taupō.
The most common way to reach Tongariro National Park from Taupō is by car, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. You can also look into bus services or organized day tours.
Absolutely! The track is part of the larger Tongariro National Park, offering access to other walks like the Tama Lakes track and stunning views of Mount Ruapehu. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Taranaki Falls Track is completely free to access. You don't need to purchase any tickets to enjoy this beautiful waterfall and its surrounding scenery.
The track is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the views.
No booking is required for Taranaki Falls. It's a public track, so you can visit anytime.
No permits are required for walking the Taranaki Falls Track. It's a public access area within Tongariro National Park.
Yes, you can visit Taranaki Falls in winter, but be prepared for cold weather and potential snow or ice on the track. Check conditions before you go.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Taranaki Falls Track is a 6 km loop and typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete at a leisurely pace, including stops for photos.
The track is considered easy to moderate. It's mostly flat with some gentle ups and downs and a few sets of stairs. It's suitable for most fitness levels.
Swimming is not recommended at Taranaki Falls due to the cold water and potentially slippery rocks. The focus is on viewing the waterfall.
You'll experience a variety of landscapes, including tussock grasslands, alpine shrublands, beech forests, and of course, the impressive waterfall. You'll also get views of Mount Ruapehu.
Due to the uneven terrain and stairs, the Taranaki Falls Track is not generally considered accessible for strollers or wheelchairs.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Clear days provide excellent views of the surrounding mountains.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the waterfall and landscape. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures to smooth the water.
Yes, the entire track offers scenic views. Look out for the different landforms, stream crossings, and the majestic waterfall itself.
Yes, you can get quite close to the base of the waterfall. Be mindful of the spray and slippery rocks.
Experiment with different angles from the viewing platforms, the base of the falls, and even from behind the waterfall if you're feeling adventurous and careful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack snacks and water, as there are no facilities along the track. While the walk is generally safe, keep a close eye on children near the water's edge and on any slippery sections. The diverse scenery, from open fields to forests, also keeps young explorers engaged throughout the hike.
🚶 Budget Travelers
All you need is your own transportation to get to the trailhead. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery, and you've got a full day of exploration for next to nothing. It's a perfect example of New Zealand's incredible natural attractions being accessible to everyone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Taranaki Falls
Understanding this geological history adds another layer of appreciation to the natural beauty of the falls. The sheer power of the eruption is evident in the sheer rock face over which the water tumbles. It’s a vivid reminder of the dynamic forces that continue to shape New Zealand’s North Island.
Navigating the Taranaki Falls Track
While generally considered easy, the track does have some inclines and a few sets of stairs, particularly as you approach the waterfall. Hikers are advised to wear sturdy footwear, as some sections can be slippery, especially after rain or near the waterfall itself. The loop typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing ample time for photography and to simply soak in the breathtaking scenery.
For those seeking a longer adventure, the track can be extended to include the Tama Lakes, adding an additional 3 hours to your hike. This option is for more experienced hikers and offers further exploration of the park's stunning natural features.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit