Visit Fantail Falls - Wanaka New Zealand
to Experience Unforgettable Beauty

Don’t leave the Haast Pass without visiting Fantail Falls - Wanaka New Zealand! If you’re on the road in the South Island, make time to visit the unforgettable scenery in the Haast Pass region.

The South Island of New Zealand is justifiably famous for its many beauties. Where better to really experience it all then the heart of the island, away from many of the tourism hot spots. Fantail Falls, New Zealand is a great spot for a picnic, some beautiful photos and to clear your mind after a long stretch of touring on your New Zealand vacation.

If you’re staying in the Lake Wanaka region or the West Coast of the South Island, reaching the falls is easy. While you may be able to find a tour, those who like to keep to their own schedules can make the scenic drive on State Highway 6 in a rental car in New Zealand. The Haast Pass is especially convenient for those who want to travel between the Wanaka area and the southern half of the island.

Plunging through a dark green beech forest to rocky pools below, Fantail Falls is an impressive sight. The sound of the water hitting enormous boulders adds to the ambiance. There are many falls in the area, thanks to the Makarora and Haast Rivers, but these are considered the most popular, and certainly one of the most beautiful.

Fantail Falls, New Zealand is well-known not only for its beauty, but also for its convenient location. Unlike many of the other sites in the Haast Pass, which require a short, or long, hike to get to, the falls are visible even from the road. That said, to get the best view, I recommend taking the short 5 minute walk down the path up to the falls. Just don’t forget your camera in the car!

While it’s easy to visit Fantail Falls, New Zealand in a few minutes, the many hiking trails in the area make it ideal for longer tours. One could spend an hour to a whole day exploring the different sites in this uninhabited wilderness. Travel in the backcountry is scenic, as one can see varied terrain from waterfalls, to deep forests to the peak of the Haast Pass. Serious outdoor enthusiasts can camp at a hut along the way. Be sure to bring sturdy boots, waterproof clothing and a good map.

Whether you get there on foot, by bus or by car, Fantail Falls, New Zealand is not soon forgotten. No trip through the Pass would be complete without a short visit. Fantail Falls, New Zealand is a special highlight of this isolated and pristine corner of the island.