Taranaki Falls Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The Taranaki Falls Track leaves the Whakapapa Village, and leads one on a scenic journey to Taranaki Falls. The route will begin with a gentle descent towards Wairere Stream that is reached about .85 miles from the trailhead. There is a trail junction here with Mangatepopo Track. Stay to the right to continue on Taranaki Falls Track

After reaching Wairere Stream, you'll begin a moderate climb. The way isn't overly strenuous. The trail follows Wairere Stream to Taranaki Falls, going through the spectacular water-worn gorge of the Wairere Stream. It also passes another smaller waterfall. Taranaki Falls is about two miles from the trailhead.

Tumbling 20 meters over the edge of a large lava flow, which erupted from Ruapehu 15,000 years ago, Taranaki Falls plunges into a boulder-ringed pool. The trail climbs steeply on a long set of steps to get to the top of Taranaki Falls.

At the top of Taranaki Falls, Taranaki Falls Track meets up with Tama Lakes Track. Go right at this trail junction to continue on Taranaki Falls Track that returns to the visitor center. Immediately after this trail junction, Taranaki Falls Track crosses Wairere Stream on a very sturdy bridge, just above Taranaki Falls. The trail then descends very gradually through grass, tussock, brush, and forested terrain, as it returns to the visitor center.