Discovering Christie Falls in Fiordland
Christie Falls, also known as Falls Creek Falls, is located just over one kilometre west of Marian Corner in Fiordland. This 15-metre-high waterfall is easily accessible as it sits right beside the Milford Sound Highway (State Highway 94), where the creek meets the Hollyford River / Whakatipu Kā Tuka. The falls provide a striking natural spectacle, especially when viewed from the pedestrian bridge nearby.
Scenic Views and Tramping Opportunities
The area around Christie Falls offers more than just the waterfall itself. From the large parking area located 100 metres west of the falls, there are impressive views of the Hollyford River, with substantial rapids below the car park and footpath.
For a more challenging adventure, a rough tramping route begins to the right of the falls. This path climbs steeply for 300 metres along Falls Creek, eventually leading to a gentler slope towards a valley cirque. This area is framed by a series of 2,000-metre peaks, including Pyramid, Charlton, and Suter Peaks at the north end of the Earl Mountains.
Historical Significance of Christie Falls
Christie Falls is named after John Christie, an engineer and mountaineer who made significant contributions to New Zealand's exploration and infrastructure. Christie was the first to traverse the mountains between Lake Hauroko and Dusky Sound in 1931. He also played a vital role in the construction of the Homer Tunnel in the 1930s and worked on other major projects like the Waitaki hydro dam.
How to Get to Christie Falls
To reach Christie Falls, drive along the Milford Sound Highway until you are just over one kilometre west of Marian Corner. The falls are immediately visible as you cross the bridge where Falls Creek joins the Hollyford River. A large parking area is located 100 metres west of the falls. From there, you can walk back to the pedestrian bridge for the best views.
The nearby Lower Hollyford Road also has several attractions, including Lake Marian and the Marian Creek Waterfalls, the site of Gunn Camp and the Humboldt Falls. Between the Divide and Christie Falls, you can also check out Pops View and 2-hour to day walks on the Routeburn, such as Key Summit and Earland Falls.
