Taupo¯’s awesome Huka Falls
The biggest falls on our longest river, Huka Falls is spectacular, so it’s little wonder that it’s our mostvisited natural attraction.
It does help, of course, that it’s so easy to get to: just a five-minute drive from the town of Taupo¯. The mighty Waikato River, young and vigorous so close to its source in Lake Taupo¯, and 100 metres across, is squeezed through a 15-metrewide gorge and over rapids, before thundering in a truly awe-inspiring display of power to the swirling pool below.
Why go?
Because 220,000 litres a second simply has to be seen to be believed, though you will struggle to get your head around the fact people kayak over the falls. From the car park, it’s a short walk to the reassuringly sturdy concrete bridge that crosses the rapids, where you look down on the raging whitewater as it surges between the walls of rock.
Then, you follow the river to the viewpoints at the side of, and beyond, the actual falls. The water is a roaring, thunderous spectacle in white and turquoise.
The volume of the falls is actually controlled by the hydroelectric system’s Taupo¯ Control Gates upstream, nearer to the river’s exit from the lake, in order to restrict flooding danger further downstream in times of heavy rain.
Insider tip
You don’t have to drive. There’s a lovely half-hour walk along the river from town, giving you several great lookouts over the water to build the excitement. There’s even a set of natural hot pools for a free wallow along the route.
On the way/nearby
You can do a kayak tour along the river (you turn back well before you get to the falls), which gives you a dramatic view from below of the Taupo¯ Bungy jump operation along the route. If you want a closer look at the falls from that sort of angle, you can drive further down river and take a ride back up it with Hukafalls Jet, which includes a few 360 spins.
For even more waterfall action, not too far away downstream there’s the Aratiatia Rapids, which spring into vigorous life four times a day in summer when water is released from the big dam. It’s free, but listen out for the warning siren, and don’t even think about swimming there. For something much more restful, try Waira¯kei Terraces hot pools (no children under 14).
How much?
No charge to visit the falls, or use the car park there.
Best time to go
Always spectacular but more dramatic after rain, and sunshine helps to intensify the colour. hukafalls.com
Reader offer
Readers Tours offers adventurous seniors the opportunity to explore our backyard and experience some of New Zealand’s hidden gems via train, ferry and luxury coach. As a special Deal of the Week, we are offering $150 off all tours booked before January 30. Contact the Readers team on 0800 080 099, or visit readersrailtours.co.nz.