Catlins Waterfalls
Track category
Short walk
Description
Pūrākaunui Falls
Time: 20 min return
Purakaunui Falls, Catlins
Getting there
The road to the falls is well signposted from the southern end of the Catlins River bridge. There is a carpark, toilets and picnic area.
The Pūrākaunui Falls is one of Otago's iconic, most-photographed sights. The track through mature beech forest, and then beech and podocarp, is suitable for wheelchair users to the top viewing platform. From there the track descends to give the view of the three-tiered falls that's often seen on calendars and postcards.
Matai Falls
Time: 30 min return
Matai Falls, Catlins
Getting there
The Matai Falls carpark is on the Southern Scenic Route 18 kilometres south of Owaka.
The falls are in the Table Hill Scenic Reserve. The walk to them is through regenerating podocarp and broadleaf forest. The falls are beautiful, and seen in their best light around midday.
Getting there
The Matai Falls are on SH92, the Southern Scenic Route, and the Pūrākaunui Falls are well signposted off SH92. travelling south from Owaka you'll come to the Pūrākaunui turnoff first.
Activities
Dog walking
Dogs are allowed at Purakanui Falls and Matai Falls, but must be on a lead.