Purakaunui Falls, The Catlins
This cascading three-tiered waterfall is one of Otago's most photographed and iconic spots, located in Catlins Conservation Park. Waterfall height: 20m Time: 10 minutes Getting there: Approximately two hours from either Dunedin or Invercargill. Visit doc.govt.nz
Whangarei Falls, Whangarei
A classic curtain waterfall, the Whangarei Falls are located in the Whangarei Scenic Reserve. At the bottom is a very popular swimming spot. Waterfall height: 26m Time: Two-minute walk. Getting there: 10-minute drive from Whangarei. Visit wdc.govt.nz
Rainbow Falls, Kerikeri
An impressive drop waterfall located in the Bay of Islands, Rainbow Falls has three different viewing platforms so you can get your shot from multiple angles. Waterfall height: 27m Time: 400m walk. Getting there: 10-minute drive from Kerikeri township. Visit doc.govt.nz
Mt Damper Falls, Taranaki
One of the highest waterfalls in the North Island, this waterfall can only be accessed from the viewing platform. Waterfall height: 74m. Time: 15-minute walk. Getting there: 1 hour 20 minutes from New Plymouth. Visit doc.govt.nz
Bridal Veil Falls, Raglan
A spectacular plunge waterfall located along Pakoka River in the Waikato, this drop has two viewing platforms so you can capture photos from both the top and bottom. Waterfall height: 55m. Time: 10-minute walk from the carpark. Getting there: 20-minute drive from Raglan township or one-hour drive from Hamilton. Visit waterfalls.co.nz
McLean Falls, The Catlins
The McLean Falls on the Tautuku River is also set in Catlins Conservation Park. It has a number of terraces and is often described as one of the most spectacular falls in the region. Waterfall height: 22m. Time: 40-minute walk. Getting there: Approximately two hours from either Dunedin or Invercargill. Visit doc.govt.nz
Humboldt Falls, Milford
Located in Fiordland National Park, this is one of the tallest and most impressive waterfalls in the area. With an easy walking track in and out, the falls can only be seen from the official viewing platform. Waterfall height: 275m. Time: 30-minute walk. Getting there: Allow for a two-hour drive from Te Anau. Visit doc.govt.nz
Sutherland Falls, near Milford Sound
This is New Zealand's tallest waterfall with a 580m drop - the only downfall is that it's not easily accessed. To visit it you can either embark on a four-day tramp on the Milford Track or take the easier option and book a scenic flight. Waterfall height: 580m. Visit waterfalls.co.nz
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Advertise with NZME.Tawhai Falls, Tongariro
Just a short walk from Tongariro National Park Visitor Center, this famous stone-riddled waterfall is otherwise known as Gollums Poolsit was used as a filming location for The Lord of The Rings. Waterfall height: 12m. Time:10 minute walk. Getting there: Just off State Highway 4 to get to Tongariro National Park. Visit waterfalls.co.nz
Huka Falls, Taupo
Located a short walk from Taupo, the Huka Falls may not be the tallest but they are mighty powerful due to the 220,000 litres of water that gushes every second. You cant sim around it, but there are great walks around the area and you can book in for a jet boat ride to get up close to this thundering beauty. Waterfall height: 13m. Time: One hour walk. Getting there: Five minutes' drive north of Taupo town centre.Visit waterfalls.co.nz
Owharoa Falls, Karangahake George
The Owharoa Falls are nestled in the heart of the Karangahake George and is a perfect place for a picnic stop if your trekking along the Hauraki Rail Trail. The 6-metre staircase waterfall will make for Instagram magic. Height: 6m.Time: 5 minute walk. Getting There: From Karangahake Gorge, take SH2 eastbound and follow it for the next 5km.Visit waterfalls.co.nz
