Huka Falls

The Huka Falls are located in Wairakei Park, just a few kilometres north of the town of Taupo. The cascade of waterfalls on the Waikato River ranks among New Zealand's most popular natural attractions.

The Power of Water

The Waikato River, at roughly 425 kilometres, is the longest river in New Zealand. It rises from Lake Taupo, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Australasia, in the centre of the North Island. From there, the initially roughly 100-metre-wide river flows towards the Tasman Sea. Not far from its source, the river passes through a gorge of hard volcanic rock barely 15 metres wide. This is where the Huka Falls are found — a cascade of waterfalls through which the water surges along the gorge. At roughly 220,000 litres per second, the river rushes over the individual steps (a height difference of around eight metres) before plunging over an eleven-metre-high cliff. The otherwise calm waterway thunders through the narrow stone channel at high speed and with enormous pressure, creating a spectacular natural display as the masses of water crash over the face of the cliff into a large pool below.

Walking to the Huka Falls

If you have some time, it is well worth walking to the Huka Falls. The Spa Park Walk lets you approach the mighty natural phenomenon gradually, giving you a better sense of the sheer force of the water. The easy trail of roughly one hour (two hours including the return) follows the course of the Waikato River throughout. You begin at a point where the river is still fairly wide and flowing calmly. Past beautiful rainforest, the path leads you ever closer to the waterfalls. Along the way, you can see the river growing steadily narrower. The soundscape grows louder with every step. Finally, you reach the Huka Falls as they thunder into the depths. Wonderful views open up repeatedly along the way, and there are plenty of opportunities for stunning photos. Alternatively, you can take the Aratiatia Rapids Walk to reach the falls.

Experiencing the Waterfall Up Close

On a jet boat tour, you can get right up close to the impressive waterfalls. The boats take tourists to within just a few metres of the base of the falls, where you can feel the power of the water first-hand. Those who prefer solid ground beneath their feet will find a footbridge at the upper end of the waterfall. It crosses the Waikato River and also brings you close to the action. Several viewing points are located on both sides of the river.

Good to Know

The name Huka comes from the Māori language and roughly translates as "foam" or "spray". The intense blue colour of the water at the Huka Falls and in the Waikato River is caused by the reflection of blue light in exceptionally clear water. The air bubbles in the water further enhance this effect.

In the 1930s, a small hydroelectric power station was built below the Huka Falls. It supplied energy to the Wairakei Hotel. In the mid-1950s, however, the hotel was connected to the power grid and the power station was closed.

By car

The Huka Falls are located on Huka Falls Road, roughly one and a half kilometres north of Taupo. From Auckland or Wellington, the town is reached via SH1. Those arriving via Hastings/Napier follow SH5 to Taupo. A car park is located at the waterfalls.

By bus

Various bus companies offer trips to the Huka Falls and other attractions around Taupo.