Photo: Purakaunui Falls Picture Otago New Zealand

This picture displays the different tiers that make up Purakaunui Falls along the Southern Scenic Route in Otago, New Zealand.

Each level of rocks is prominently displayed in this picture and the water from the Purakaunui Falls in Otago, New Zealand, cascades over each rock ledge until it reaches the bottom pools. Even at the bottom of the falls, there are smaller ledges that create little waterfalls across the width of the river that flows for about three miles until it empties into the Pacific Ocean on the southeast region of the South Island of New Zealand.

From the top of the Purakaunui Falls to the bottom of the first three tiers, the falls drop about sixty-five feet in total over the moss covered rocks. The rocks can become very slippery and it is best to view the falls from the viewpoints that are marked along the trail or head to the pools below to get a picture of the entire picturesque area.

Many tourists hike through the trails to view the pristine Purakaunui Falls and they all have their cameras ready to take a picture or two of this incredible natural waterway. ... continue below the picture...

This picture is part of the photo album "Catlins" - there are more beautiful images waiting for you.

... Once you reach the falls, you will be amazed at how quiet it is amongst the native forest land of Otago, New Zealand as all you have to listen to is the water flowing to the ledges below. During certain seasons throughout the year, the river picks up speed with massive amounts of water which can make the multi-tiers of the Purakaunui Falls disappear until the water calms to its scenic flow again.

There have been many pictures taken of the Purakaunui Falls over the years and they are now considered to be the most photographed set of falls on the South and North Islands of New Zealand. Near the beginning of the trail that leads to the falls, there are tables where you can enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the wilderness of Otago, New Zealand.

Purakaunui Falls, along the Southern Scenic Route, Catlin's Highway, Otago, East Coast, South Island, New Zealand. An easy 10 minute walk from carpark.