Enjoy this location in the Catlins District, all year round and in all weathers.
Papatowai Road,
Tawanui
Located in Table Hill Scenic Reserve, these two beautiful waterfalls on the Matai Stream are accessible via a short walk through regenerating podocarp and broadleaf forest.
The easy 15 minute walk leaves the carpark and, after a short journey through native forest, comes to a junction. The left track takes you to the lower falls; the 10m high Matai Falls, which are viewed from a wooden platform built into the bed of the stream. provides a convenient place to view the 10m high falls. The right path takes you on a short, steep climb to the upper falls; Horseshoe Falls, which are particularly spectacular when the river is running high.
The scenic drive to the Fall's carpark (which is well-signposted), picnic tables, and the enjoyable walk make these falls very popular.
Content
Venture Southland
Last modified
Mon 10 Dec 2018
- Activities
- Natural Attraction
- Free Things to Do
- Outdoor Activities
- Sightseeing
- Less than half day
- Family Friendly
- Scenic Photo Point
- Scenic Attraction
- Picnic
- Self-Guided
- Walking & Tramping
Features
Nearby
This walk is suitable for all age groups and provides plenty of variety. It is easy walking, taking around 20 minutes return.
Horse and coach teams once forded the river below the present bridge and you will follow the same route to the beach.
One of New Zealand's iconic, most-photographed sights is these stunning three-tiered falls.
Three kilometres out of Papatowai, a short gravel road leads to sweeping Tautuku Bay, which can be viewed from on high at the Florence Hill Lookout.
A program developed for youth to help them reconnect to their Māori culture, self-identity and the environment.
