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Waterfalls and Caves

This collection highlights the geological diversity of New Zealand's West Coast, spanning from the Haast Pass to the Punakaiki karst landscapes. It features fan-shaped cascades like Fantail Falls and the 28-meter glacial plunge of Thunder Creek Waterfall. The list also includes limestone formations such as the Punakaiki Cavern and the Bullock Creek cave systems, alongside the powerful rapids of the Gates of Haast. These sites showcase the region's high rainfall and ancient limestone erosion.

Tony Hisgett / CC BY 2.0

A

Fantail Falls

A 23-meter fan-shaped cascade that empties into the Haast River. It is accessible via a short walk through silver beech forest.

B

Thunder Creek Waterfall

A 28-meter glacial plunge waterfall located in Mount Aspiring National Park, visible from a viewing platform at the end of a sealed track.

C

Punakaiki Cavern

A 130-meter-long limestone sea cave featuring stalactites and occasional glow worms, accessible via wooden stairs from the main road.

D

The Roaring Billy

A 30-meter waterfall that cascades over broad rocks into the Haast River, reached by a 15-minute walk through native podocarp and silver beech forest.

E

Gates of Haast

A dramatic series of rapids and waterfalls where the Haast River narrows through a gorge filled with massive boulders.

F

Topsy Falls

A small cascade located along the Haast Highway within the Mount Aspiring National Park mountain range.

G

Depot Creek Falls

A multi-tiered waterfall situated off the Haast Highway, surrounded by dense temperate rainforest.

H

Dorothy Falls

A multi-step waterfall located on the eastern shore of Lake Kaniere, accessible directly from the roadside.

I

Tunnel Cave entrance

A limestone cave entrance located within the Bullock Creek karst area, part of a complex dry valley system.

J

Miners Cave

A cave within the Punakaiki karst landscape near Bullock Creek, formed within the region's ancient limestone terrain.

K

Five Mile Creek Falls

A waterfall descending over rock faces near the Inangahua River and the Lewis Pass road.