Matai Falls

An accessible waterfall walk near Milford Sound featuring a short bush trek to view the cascading waters in a rainforest setting. It provides an easy alternative for visitors wanting to explore Fiordland's natural beauty without longer commitments.

Things to do

• Matai Falls Walk — A short 1.3 km loop track through native beech forest leading to a viewpoint of the 188-meter cascading waterfall.
• Rainforest Photography — Capture the lush moss-covered trees, ferns, and flowing water in the temperate rainforest setting that surrounds the falls.
• Bush Trekking — Experience native New Zealand flora including rimu, beech, and podocarp trees while walking the well-maintained forest path.
• Waterfall Viewing Platform — Stand at the designated viewing platform to observe the full cascade and mist from Matai Falls in various weather conditions.
• Birdwatching — Listen for native forest birds including tui, bellbirds, and fantails among the dense canopy of the rainforest environment.
• Milford Sound Day Trip — Combine the Matai Falls walk with nearby Milford Sound attractions such as boat cruises and Milford Peak viewing, located 15 minutes away.

Food to try

• Greenshell Mussels — Fresh Fiordland mussels served steamed or pan-fried at lodges and restaurants near Milford Sound, showcasing local aquaculture.
• Central Otago Venison — High-quality farm-raised deer meat prepared as steaks or stews at regional restaurants, reflecting South Island pastoral traditions.
• Westland Cheese — Award-winning artisan cheeses produced locally in Westland region, available at visitor centers and lodges throughout Fiordland.
• Fiordland Whitebait — Seasonal delicacy of tiny freshwater fish typically battered and fried, representing South Island culinary heritage when in season.

Local customs & good to know

• Weather Preparedness — Fiordland receives high rainfall year-round, so carry waterproof jackets and expect wet conditions even on short walks like Matai Falls.
• Māori Heritage Respect — The area holds significance to Ngāi Tahu iwi; respect walking tracks, avoid removing native plants, and acknowledge the land's cultural importance.
• Track Safety Protocols — Check conditions with Department of Conservation before walking, stay on marked trails, and allow 45 minutes to 1 hour for the complete Matai Falls loop.
• Early Morning Visits — Arrive early to avoid crowds from tour buses, experience the forest in quieter conditions, and capture better light for photography.