11 October 2026
Showers, possibly heavy with snow flurries to 2100 metres, clearing to fine spells this afternoon.
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1 / 19Tongariro National Park
Tawhai Falls Track
This is an easy short walk to the popular Tawhai Falls a short drive from Whakapapa Village.
Distance
0.8 km
Walking time
15 min
Difficulty
Easiest
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Tongariro National Park forecast
Issued 11 Oct 2026, 7:33 am
12 October 2026
Cloud about the terrain lifting in the morning and becoming mainly fine. Isolated afternoon showers then clouding over again in the evening with possible late drizzle.
13 October 2026
A few showers, widespread and heavier in the afternoon and evening.
14 October 2026
Showers developing.
15 October 2026
Showers, turning to heavy rain, with snow to 1900 metres.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Tawhai Falls Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Tawhai Falls Track
The Tawhai Falls are 13 metres high and tumble over the edge of an ancient lava flow, reached after a short stroll through mountain toatoa and beech forest. Tawhai Falls is also the filming location of Gollum’s pool, where Faramir and his archers are watching Gollum fish in The Lord of the Rings movie; The Two Towers. This is a must visit for any Lord of the Rings fans, and waterfall photography enthusiasts!
Essential information for Tawhai Falls Track
The river is fast-flowing and the rocks on the riverbank can be slippery. Supervise children at all times. The river floods rapidly in wet weather. Stay away from the river during heavy rain and when it is in flood (e.g. if it is high, fast, murky or loud).
Getting there for Tawhai Falls Track
The track begins off a carpark next to the road 4 km from Whakapapa Village. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
Dog access for Tawhai Falls Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Tawhai Falls Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.