New Zealand's South Island holds an unusually high concentration of waterfalls fed by glacial melt and heavy rainfall, including some of the tallest in the world. Australia's tropical north adds a warmer, rainforest-fed alternative further west.
The destinations on this list range from glacier-fed falls in dramatic alpine settings, often requiring a multi-day hike to reach, to shorter rainforest walks ending at swimmable plunge pools. Both vary considerably depending on recent rainfall.
Checking recent rainfall before a visit matters considerably here, since several of the region's most dramatic falls can shrink noticeably during dry spells. Local trekking companies can advise on current trail conditions. Wearing sturdy, waterproof footwear also matters considerably on the wetter trail sections. Most trails require sturdy, waterproof footwear.
