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Huka Falls

Huka-Falls-585

The Huka Falls are the largest falls on the Waikato River, near Taupo on New Zealand’s North Island. They are the most visited natural attraction in New Zealand! The Waikato river is one of New Zealand’s longest rivers and it drains Lake Taupo – the largest freshwater lake in all of Australasia.

The Waikato River, normally up to 100 metres wide, abruptly narrows to just 15 metres as it crosses a hard volcanic ledge. This of course causes a huge volume of water to collide together, forming a spectacular visual feast of powerful falls and rapids. Around 220,000 litres per second of pours over the cliff face, and then rushes under a pedestrian bridge (great photo opportunity here!) The water then bursts out of its rapids, over the 11 metre falls, and back into the Waikato River.

The name Huka is the Maori word for ‘foam’, which is appropriate as the falling water and rapids certainly resembles foam, especially under flooding conditions. Huka Falls is located in Wairakei Park. This is only a short 5 minute drive north of Lake Taupo, or you can choose the 30 minute riverside walk as a way to get to the several viewing platforms that are available. Here you will see one of the great natural wonders of the world in action!