Waimakariri Falls
Waimakariri Falls
Waimakariri Falls is a 50-metre waterfall located on the Waimakariri River in Arthur's Pass National Park, Canterbury, on New Zealand's South Island.
It sits in a remote, steep-walled valley accessible via a demanding multi-hour hike from the outskirts of Arthur's Pass township. The route follows the river plains before climbing through a narrowing gorge past a series of extraordinary cascades.
The falls lie downstream from Waimakariri Falls Hut, a Canterbury Mountaineering Club hut that serves as the primary backcountry base in the area.
The surrounding terrain is rugged and avalanche-prone, and the location has no mobile phone reception, making careful trip planning essential.
More ways to access Waimakariri River
Explore the wonders of Waimakariri River! Find excellent paddling spots, easy access to boat ramps, and all the amenities you need for a memorable day by the water. Your adventure starts here.
Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)
Check the forecast at Waimakariri Falls before you go paddling.
No forecast data available.
Paddling near Waimakariri Falls
Canterbury licenses and regulations
Explore Canterbury waters
Top paddling waters
No waters available right now.
Popular Cities
Loading popular cities...
Explore near Waimakariri Falls
On this water
Nearby spots
Nearby waters
More in Canterbury
Smarter Paddling Starts in the App.
Paddleways gives you everything you need to plan smarter, paddle better, and own every trip from first launch to takeout.












