Newton’s Waterfall, Akaroa

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Akaroa is most famous for its harbour-based activities and Banks Peninsula views, but there’s also an awesome waterfall that you can walk to from town. It’s easy to get to and is surprisingly impressive — keep reading to find out more!

Getting to Newton’s Waterfall

If you feel like a bit of a walk you can leave your car in town and walk up to Newton’s Waterfall. It’ll take around 45 minutes (one way) and is mostly uphill. Take care on the roads as there isn’t much in the way of footpaths. Alternatively, you can drive to the end of Ayers Valley Road and park there. There isn’t much room up there though so you might struggle to get a park when it’s busy. Luckily, I had it to myself when I visited (in late August). From the end of the road a short track takes you up to the waterfall. You’ll pass by a river with small rapids which is pretty scenic. This track is a bit muddy in parts so wear good shoes if it’s been raining recently.

Newton’s Waterfall

After around 10 minutes the sound of crashing water gets louder, and then suddenly you’ll see it! It’s around 9 metres high and is kind of separated into two parts. It’s a pretty little spot and is awesome when you have it all to yourself. There isn’t much to do at Newton’s Waterfall but it’s a great place to visit — it’s always good to find hidden gems like this!

Other Places to See in Akaroa

Akaroa is an old French / English town and is full of elegant old buildings. It’s fun just to walk around, try some French food and enjoy the waterfront area. You can also do a dolphin spotting trip (highly recommended) and explore some of the nearby bays and beaches. There are some other nice short walks around too, including the Children’s Bay Walkway and the Otepatotu Track.

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Jon Algie

I'm a South Island local -- born in Timaru and raised in Dunedin. I left the island in 2006 and returned 10 years later. Having seen a good chunk of the world I realised how special this place is -- the most beautiful island in the world! Seven years (and almost 400 posts) later I'm still helping locals and tourists alike plan their trips around the South Island.