Huka Falls, just north of Taupō, is an easily accessible and popular destination. Coming from the north, it is signposted from SH1 onto Wairakei Drive, then Huka Falls Road. Take the side trip on Huka Falls Loop Road for an excellent viewpoint of the Falls before you get to the main car park.
From the car park, head to the footbridge over the Waikato River. This is the best view of the river accelerating along the narrow gorge above the falls. The amazing water colour is created by mixing air with the water as it tumbles. You can continue to walk north, stopping at several viewpoints as you go. The last two give you a direct view of the Falls. Although they’re not very high, an enormous volume of water drops every second.
The path continues north to the Aratiatia hydro lake and rapids and south to Taupō.
