Waterfalls in Taupō

Waterfalls worth chasing around Taupō.

The Taupō region has a handful of waterfalls worth the effort, from New Zealand’s most visited natural attraction to quieter backcountry cascades. Huka Falls is the standout, a narrow gorge on the Waikato River that forces 220,000 litres through every second, free to visit and minutes from town. Waipunga Falls and Tarawera Falls offer multi-tiered drops, and Tawhai Falls (Gollum’s Pool from The Lord of the Rings) sits in Tongariro National Park.

Browse all waterfalls below:

Taupō waterfall map

2 waterfalls in and around Taupō. Tap one for details and directions, or find the ones nearest you.

Has a guide on this siteWaterfallGroup: tap to zoom in

Waterfall pins set on LINZ aerial photos (CC BY 4.0). Public access and details from Department of Conservation pages. Track lines from Herenga ā Nuku Aotearoa, Outdoor Access Commission, from LINZ and DOC data (CC BY 4.0).

Waterfall guides for Taupō

3 waterfalls

Huka FallsIconic Waterfall and Walking TracksToiletsDiscover the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures of Huka Falls in Taupō, where nature's power leaves you in awe. What will you explore next?

Tawhai FallsEasy Walk to Gollum's Pool in Tongariro10-20 min return800 m returnEasyNo dogsCatch a glimpse of Gollum's Pool at Tawhai Falls and uncover the secrets of this breathtaking location that await you just beyond the waterfall.

Waipunga FallsRoadside Waterfall on SH5 Napier RoadWitness the breathtaking beauty of Waipunga Falls, where stunning cascades and lush rainforest create an unforgettable experience waiting to be explored.