Explore an easily accessible, yet spectacular waterfall at the end of a short forest walk within the Catlins Forest Park.
Although it’s the most photographed waterfall in New Zealand, Purakaunui Falls is still relatively unknown on the regular South Island tourist trail. That’s because far too few people tend to visit the Catlins.
A short walk through the incredible forest track reveals a waterfall that proves why this region should be a must-visit destination for anybody on a New Zealand road trip.
How to Get to Purakaunui Falls
The Purakauinui Falls Walk is located at the end of Puraukanui Road, just off the Papatowai Highway. Driving to the waterfall car park involves a short 2 km stretch of gravel road. This road is well-maintained and accessible by all 2WD vehicles and campers.
Location: Parking Area
The car park has loads of space for vehicles, as well as a toilet and tap for water (non-potable).
Purakaunui Falls Walk
- Distance: 20 minutes return
- Difficulty: Easy
The walk down to the waterfall follows a gravel track and crosses a bridge before finishing up at a short wooden staircase down to the waterfall.
Overall, the Purakaunui Falls walk is a very easy track that doesn't take more than 10-15 minutes to complete.
While it's not exactly an adventurous track, I was certainly blown away by the beauty of the Catlins Forest Park, passing large ferns, beech trees, and crystal-clear flowing rivers on the way.
Related: Waipohatu Waterfall Loop Hike
What to Expect at Purakaunui Falls
- Waterfall Height: 20 m
- Waterfall Type: Tiered / Plunging
Upon arriving at the waterfall, it's easy to understand why it's considered the most photographed waterfall in New Zealand. The waterfall neatly plunges down three even levels into a shallow pool.
This then trickles further down the slopes of the shallow forest canyon. The entire scene is beautiful and definitely worth the quick detour.
Some might say that the title of "most-photographed" might be due to its easy accessibility. Still, its multi-leveled tiers and spectacular even flow make for a picturesque scene that would excite any photographer!
After spending some time at the falls or having a quick swim you will return back to the carpark along the same trail.
Get Clean Drinking Water on Your Hike
I take the Grayl GeoPress Purifier Bottle on every hike and use it as my go-to source for filtering water all over the world. I've even used it to drink tap water in India!
Compare how the GeoPress stacks up against the best water bottle filters on the market.
There we have it for Purakauni Falls! For more detailed travel guides and ideas for things to do in New Zealand, make sure to check out some of the article links below.
- 36 Amazing Places to Visit in the South Island - my most comprehensive travel guide that is useful to help you find the best places to visit on your trip to the South Island
- Top Things to Do in Queenstown: Explore Queenstown's top hikes, epic adrenaline activities, and hidden gems.
- South Island's Best Hikes: I hiked over 50 trails in New Zealand. Here's my curated list of the most breathtaking hikes across New Zealand's South Island.
- Arthur's Pass Travel Guide: Dive into the heart of Arthur's Pass with my guide to the best places to visit.
- Best Mount Cook National Park Hikes: A hiking guide to the most scenic trails beneath Mount Cook.
- Best Views of Mount Cook: Discover the top spots to witness New Zealand's Aoraki peak in all its glory.
- Epic Things to do at Milford Sound: Explore 21 unique ideas get inspired to visit Milford Sound!
- Catlins' Hidden Gems: Uncover the Catlins' best-kept secrets, from waterfalls to wild coastlines.
- Accommodation Resources: Plan where to stay in Queenstown and discover the amazing Tekapo Lake Hotels.
