Matai Falls & Horseshoe Falls

Matai Falls

Two forest waterfalls linked by one track. It is an easy walk that can be combined with Purakaunui Falls in a single day.

The track starts from a car park beside the main road and passes through dense native forest. After about 15 minutes you reach Matai Falls, where water cascades down rock steps in tiers. A few minutes further up is Horseshoe Falls, a semicircular cascade. The round trip takes about 30 to 40 minutes on a gentle grade. The falls lie between Owaka and Papatowai and are usually visited together with Purakaunui Falls.

Opening hours

All day

Waterfall · Forest · Short trails

Nearby sights

The Lost Gypsy Gallery
Purakaunui Falls
Florence Hill Lookout
Lake Wilkie
Cathedral Caves (Waipati)
McLean Falls
Owaka Museum Wahi Kahuika
Jack's Blowhole

Places to eat nearby

Whistling Frog Cafe Bar
Lumberjack Bar and Cafe
The Point Cafe Bar
Niagara Falls Cafe