With its wealth of water sports and adventures, New Zealand is certainly somewhere that all water babies should visit. However, if you’re not one for taking the plunge and diving into the water yourself, there are many other ways to make the most of the fast-moving, free-flowing rivers. If you’re in New Zealand walking, there are several trails that will take you close to some of the world’s most exciting waterfalls.

Huka Falls

One of the most visited attractions in New Zealand, the Huka Falls are an unexpected treat. The ferocious falls are the largest of the Waikato River which drains Lake Taupo, the largest lake in New Zealand. Walking along the banks of the Waikato River you will revel in the peace and quiet of your surroundings. That is, until you reach the waterfall. You cannot however fail to be impressed as you reach the Huka Falls, at which point the river narrows from 100 metres to only 20 metres wide. The clear and bright blue hue colour of the water is unlike that of any other river or waterfall and will make the Huka Falls stand out in your memory for years to come. Enjoy watching those more reckless than yourself tackle the falls in jetboats from the safety of the banks, before starting your stroll back through the Wairakei Park.

Kakahe Falls

Kakahe Falls is renowned for being the highest hot-waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere. Located in the Hells Gate and Wai Ora Spa in Rotorua, it is found in arguably the most relaxing location in New Zealand. Walking aches and pains can be washed away with a soak in the thermal pools or mud baths, however not until they have been earned with a walk past the bubbling mud pools and erupting geysers that make the walk to the waterfall so exciting. Feel the heat emanating from the scorching waterfall and bask in the phenomenal view as you enjoy the anticipation of the well-earned spa that you will soon be relaxing in.

Sutherland Falls

The Milford Track is well-known for the hundreds of waterfalls that appear when it rains in New Zealand. Walking in this area, you will see plenty of flowing falls, however the most impressive will certainly be Sutherland Falls. With a reputation for being one of the world’s highest waterfalls, Sutherland is quite a sight. The tiered waterfall measures a total height of nearly 600 metres, and drains Lake Quill. The lake itself is fed by several glaciers, making the flow of the falls fast and furious. A two mile hike along the Milford Track will take you to the base of the falls where, if you look skywards, you will see Sutherland Falls in all its glory. In terms of height, this is undoubtedly the most impressive waterfall you will see whilst in New Zealand walking.

So, if you’re not one for diving in the deep end with the wet and wild activities that are so popular in New Zealand, walking the waterfalls is by far the best alternative. With many magnificent falls both in the North and the South Islands for you to enjoy, you needn’t get wet to enjoy the water.

Author Bio: Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While in New Zealand walking with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

Category: Travel
Keywords: New Zealand walking