Falls over a Lava Flow. Tongariro National Park. New Zealand.
S 39° 11.860 E 175° 33.855
60H E 376019 N 5660305
The Taranaki Falls tumble over the edge of a large lava flow that erupted from the volcano of Mt Ruapehu 15,000 years ago.
Waymark Code: WM77CP
Location: North Island, New Zealand
Date Posted: 09/13/2009
Views: 15
Within the volcanic Tongariro National Park, the Taranaki Falls are created where the Wairere Stream spills over a 20 metre high lava cliff into a boulder ringed pool.
This cliff is the edge of an andesite lava flow, estimated to be 15,000 years old, from a vent on Mt Ruapehu. The Wairere Stream now flows over the lava that originally displaced it, and is slowly eroding a channel through it.
The Falls can be reached by a loop track, about 1 and 1/2 hours return. Take the top track for the best lava views. The track crosses the stream above the falls and climbs down to the base of the Falls. You are able to walk right up to the base of the Falls and walk behind it for a different view through the curtain of water.
Waymark is confirmed to be publicly accessible: yes
Parking Coordinates: S 39° 11.975 E 175° 32.575
Website reference: [Web Link]
Access fee (In local currency): Not Listed
Requires a high clearance vehicle to visit.: Not Listed
Requires 4x4 vehicle to visit.: Not Listed
Public Transport available: Not Listed
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Visit Instructions:
No specific requirements, just have fun visiting the waymark.