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Waterfall · Taupō, Waikato
Huka Falls
The Waikato River drop shortly after leaving Lake Taupō: the river narrows into a rock canyon and plunges into turquoise-blue waters, with a bridge and viewpoints above the current.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Huka Falls
The Huka Falls are on the Waikato River, about 5 km from Taupō town center. Shortly after leaving the lake, the river—about 100 meters wide—enters a rocky canyon roughly 15 meters across and speeds up, then drops over a final step of several meters into a mass of white and turquoise-blue water.
The water volume is large: on average about 220,000 liters pass per second, and the flow is controlled by gates at the lake outlet. The name Huka comes from the Māori word for foam.
A footbridge spans the canyon just above the falls, and viewpoints on both banks let you see the current up close. From there riverside trails lead: upstream to Spa Thermal Park in Taupō, where a hot stream flows into the Waikato; downstream to the Aratiatia rapids.
Jetboats and tour boats depart from a downstream wharf and approach the base of the waterfall. Parking and the viewpoints are free.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 20–40 minutes to reach the bridge and viewpoints; 1–2 hours if you include the trail from Spa Thermal Park.
Best time
On sunny days, when the water appears bluer. In the morning there are fewer tour buses. The waterfall has water year-round.
How to get there
By car, about 5 minutes from Taupō town center via SH1 and Huka Falls Road, with parking. On foot, via the riverside trail from Spa Thermal Park, taking about 45 minutes.
Tip
Walk the trail from Spa Thermal Park and on the return stop at the hot stream Otumuheke in the park to dip your feet.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Huka Falls
How long does a visit to Huka Falls take?
About 20–40 minutes to the bridge and viewing platforms. From Taupō along the trail, one to two hours.
Do you have to pay to see Huka Falls?
No. Parking, the bridge and viewing platforms are free; boat tours are paid.
Can you walk from Taupō to Huka Falls?
Yes, via the riverside trail along the Waikato River from Spa Thermal Park, in about 45 minutes.
Why is the water at Huka Falls blue?
The water comes from Lake Taupō, which is very clear, and it takes on a turquoise-blue color with depth and foam.