Waterfalls in New Plymouth

Waterfalls worth chasing around New Plymouth.

The slopes of Mount Taranaki and the wider Taranaki region hide some spectacular waterfalls, from the roadside Dawson Falls to bush-clad cascades reached by short walks. Many sit an easy drive from the city in Egmont National Park. Pack sturdy shoes, as tracks can be muddy after rain.

Browse all waterfalls below:

New Plymouth waterfall map

2 waterfalls in and around New Plymouth. Tap one for details and directions, or find the ones nearest you.

Has a guide on this siteWaterfallGroup: tap to zoom in

Waterfall pins set on LINZ aerial photos (CC BY 4.0). Public access and details from Department of Conservation pages. Track lines from Herenga ā Nuku Aotearoa, Outdoor Access Commission, from LINZ and DOC data (CC BY 4.0).

Waterfall guides for New Plymouth

5 waterfalls

Bells FallsHike to Te Rere o Tahurangi in Te Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki7-9 hr18 kmHard31 m fallsTake a breathtaking journey to Bells Falls, where a stunning waterfall awaits, but prepare for the adventure that lies ahead.

Curtis Falls TrackTe Papa-Kura-o-Taranaki Waterfall Hike2-3 hr return4.2 km returnHardNo dogsFind tranquility at Curtis Falls, a hidden waterfall on Mount Taranaki, where lush scenery awaits your discovery and adventure beckons from every corner.

Dawson FallsWaterfall Walks in Te Papa-Kura-o-TaranakiNo dogs30 min driveDiscover the lush beauty of Dawson Falls, a stunning 18-meter waterfall in Egmont National Park—explore the secrets waiting beyond its cascading waters.

Mount Damper FallsNorth Island Waterfall Walk in Taranaki30 min1 km returnNo dogsToiletsKeen to explore one of the tallest waterfalls in the North Island? Discover the beauty and secrets of Mount Damper Falls today!

Wilkies PoolsGoblin Forest Walk and Natural Pools1.5 hr1.9 km loopEasyNo dogsWander through enchanting goblin forests to uncover the stunning natural plunge pools of Wilkies, where a refreshing adventure awaits you!