Waitonga Falls, Tongariro National Park

Image: Dino Borelli | Creative Commons

Waitonga Falls Track

Located in Tongariro National Park in the Central North Island region

Introduction

The 39 m Waitonga Falls is Tongariro National Park’s highest waterfall. The well-formed track passes through mountain beech and kaikawaka forest.

Track overview

4 km return via same track

Walking and tramping

1 hr 20 min Easy: Walking track

Dog access

No dogs

About this track

Description

Tongariro National Park’s highest waterfall, the 39 metre Waitonga Falls, is reached via a well-formed track through mountain beech and kaikawaka (mountain cedar) forest.

On clear calm days there are fantastic views of Mount Ruapehu and the surrounding countryside. You can see reflections of the mountain in the Rotokawa pools, part of an alpine wetland area.

Getting there

The track begins from the parking area 11 kilometres up the Ohakune Mountain Road.

Nature and conservation

The track is rich in plant life, with mistletoe on the beech trees, and a variety of orchids along the banks. In the alpine wetland area, you can see sundews and bladderworts in addition to the usual larger vegetation of the bog.

Know before you go

The weather in Tongariro National Park is extremely changeable all year around. Prepare for all weather conditions:

What to take with you:

  • 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

Contacts

Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre
Phone:   +64 7 892 3729
Fax:   +64 4 471 1117
Email:   tongarirovc@doc.govt.nz
Address:   Whakapapa Village
State Highway 48
Mount Ruapehu
Postal Address:   PO Box 71029
Whakapapa Village
Mount Ruapehu 3951
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