Waterfalls around Tongariro National Park
We take you to a visit of the most important waterfalls around the central region. View the photos and find out their rating, height and how to access…
On the western side of the Tongariro National Park, near Whakapapa Village, you can discover: Taranaki Falls, Tawhai Falls, Silica Rapids, Soda Springs and Mahuia Rapids. On the southern end of Tongariro National Park, near Ohakune, you can explore: Mangawhero Falls and Ohakune Mountain Falls.
Taranaki Falls
Rating: *****
Height: 20 m
Access: 2hrs loop walk through beech forest and mountain scenery from Whakapapa Village
Impressive waterfall track which offers views of volcanic mountain scenery on a clear day.
Tawhai Falls
Rating: ****
Height: 13 m
Access: 20min easy return walk from carpark at SH48 towards Whakapapa Village
Easy to get waterfall, where you might see the rare Blue Ducks
Silica Rapids
Rating: ***
Access: 1,5hrs return walk from carpark at SH48 on Bruce Road
Scenic track with interesting vegetation and volcanic mountain views on a clear day.
Soda Springs
Rating: ****
Height: 15 m
Access: Allow 2hrs 30min for return track from the carpark at the end of Mangatepopo Road (gravel road for 6km)
Section of the famous Tongariro Crossing, can be busy with walkers on a nice summer day.
Mahuia Rapids
Rating: ***
Access: Close to the junction of SH47 and SH48, stop by the bridge and look towards the mountains.
The rapids can be framed with Mt Ruapehu or Mt Ngauruhoe in the background.
Mangawhero Falls
Rating: ****
Height: 28 m
Access: 20 min easy return walk to lookout platform, car park near KM16 on Ohakune Mountain Road.
Beautiful waterfall with easy access and views of Mt Ruapehu on clear days.
Ohakune Mountain Falls
Rating: ***
Height: 10 m
Access: To view the waterfall from roadside car park, stop near KM13 on Ohakune Mountain Rd.
No official track, but you can follow the river bed with appropriate gear and care.
Would you like to visit more waterfalls in this region? You can find the famous Huka Falls and more near Lake Taupo.
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