Waitonga Falls Track

Walking track

Time:  

1 hr 30 min

Getting there

The track to the falls begins on the Ohakune Mountain Road, 11 kilometres past the DOC Visitor Centre.

Description

White sun orchids can be seen along
the Waitonga Falls Track 

Tongariro National Park’s highest waterfall, the 39 metres Waitonga Falls are reached via a well-formed track through mountain beech and kaikawaka (mountain cedar) forest. On a calm day the southern face of Ruapehu is reflected in Rotokawa, the pools of a ridgetop alpine bog over which the track passes. On a clear day there are magnificent views of Mount Ruapehu and the surrounding countryside to the southwest.

This track is rich in plant life with mistletoe on the beech trees and green hooded orchids and sun orchids along the banks. In the alpine bog sundews and bladderworts may be seen in addition to the usual larger vegetation of the bog, especially when flowering. Past Waitonga Falls, the track continues as part of the Round the Mountain Track, a four to six day tramp around Mount Ruapehu.

Plan and prepare

The weather in Tongariro National Park is extremely changeable all year around. Be prepared for all weather.

For longer walks take:

• windproof/waterproof raincoat and overtrousers
• spare warm clothing
• sturdy, comfortable shoes or boots
• food and drink
• map for unmarked routes (available at DOC offices)
• sunglasses and suncream
• first aid kit

We recommend treating all water in Tongariro National Park. 

What to expect on a walking track:

• Easy to moderate walking from a few minutes to a day
• Track is mostly well formed, some sections may be steep, rough or muddy
• Suitable for people with low to moderate fitness and abilities
• Clearly sign posted. Stream and river crossings are bridged
• Walking shoes or light tramping/hiking boots required

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