Exploring Huka Falls
Huka Falls, located just north of Taupō, is a popular destination for those exploring the central North Island. Known for its stunning turquoise waters, the falls provide a spectacle as the Waikato River rushes through a narrow gorge. This natural wonder is easily accessible, with several viewpoints to appreciate the falls’ sheer power and beauty.
Walking the Huka Falls Trail
Begin your visit at the main car park with a short walk to the footbridge over the Waikato River. This spot offers the best view of the river as it accelerates through the gorge above the falls. The vibrant blue water colour results from air mixing with the water as it cascades down.
Continue walking north along the path, which features several viewpoints. The final two viewpoints provide a direct view of the falls, where you can witness the impressive volume of water that plunges over the edge every second.
The Volume of Water
The falls form where the Waikato River suddenly narrows from around 100 metres to just 15 metres across, forcing a massive volume of water through a narrow volcanic rock canyon. This dramatic constriction causes water to surge over the 11-metre drop, with the flow rate typically ranging from 200,000 to 220,000 litres per second. At peak flow, the volume is enough to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool in just 11 seconds.
It is not a particularly high waterfall, but it is an astonishing sight!
Continuing Your Walk
The path from Huka Falls extends north to the Aratiatia hydro lake and rapids. The Aratia Rapids were affected by the rerouting of the Waitako River’s flow for hydroelectric production, but every day, water is released through the rapids, showcasing another force of nature. Summer times are 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 4:00 pm. In Winter, the times are 10:00 am, 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm.
You can walk south along the river to Taupō.
How to Get There
From Auckland, Huka Falls are a drive on State Highway 1. As you approach Taupō, follow the signs from State Highway 1 to Wairakei Drive, then turn onto Huka Falls Road. The drive is 270 km and takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes.
For an excellent high viewpoint before reaching the main car park, take the side trip on Huka Falls Loop Road.
Other things to do around Taupō include Craters of the Moon, the Tauhara Track, the Lakeside Trail, the Graffiato Street Art Trail and Spa Thermal Park.
