Purakaunui Falls

Instantly recognisable as one of the most photographed in the country these falls have been reproduced in calendars, phone books and stamps for decades. This legacy, however, does not diminish their radiance and delicate beauty when viewed for the first time in real life. Located 20 minutes from Owaka, Purakaunui Falls are accessible via a short 10-minute walk through thriving podocarp and beech forest. The enchanting quality of water cascading down a series of tiers is a spellbinding marvel of nature – the photos have always been impressive but the real thing is even better.