The track leads down to a viewing point near the top of Tawhai Falls, where you can watch the river tumble over the edge of an ancient lava flow.

There is then the option to continue down more steps to the river’s edge, where there is a view of the river and a more distant view of the falls. The river is fast-flowing and the rocks on the riverbank can be slippery. Supervise children at all times.

The return walk to the carpark is via the same track.

The river floods rapidly in wet weather. Stay away from the river when it is flooding (e.g. if it is high, fast, murky or loud).

The carpark is located on SH48 approximately 4 km from the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre. 

We recommend visiting early or later in the day, as this track is popular and the car park gets busy. Come back later if the car park is full, avoid parking on the state highway.

No unauthorised drone use in the national park

Unauthorised use of drones is prohibited. You must have a permit to fly a drone.

DOC does not generally approve permits to fly drones in this national park and we do not recommend you apply for one.

Drone use on conservation land