Last updated November 2026
Marokopa Falls is a 35 m waterfall on the Marokopa River in the Waitomo district, and DOC notes it is often described as one of the most beautiful in the country. A short walk of about 20 minutes, graded Easiest, leads through native forest to viewing points over the falls.
The track starts from a small car park on Te Anga Road, 31 km west of Waitomo and 15 km east of Marokopa. At about 65 km from Hamilton in a straight line, it fits well into a day trip to the Waitomo area. Check DOC before you go.
Practical Information
- Start
- Small car park on Te Anga Road, 31 km west of Waitomo and 15 km east of Marokopa
- Distance from the city
- About 65 km from Hamilton
- Walking time
- About 20 min return
- Grade
- Easiest
- Height of the falls
- 35 m
- Dogs
- Check with DOC before bringing a dog
- Managed by
- Department of Conservation
About Marokopa Falls
Here the Marokopa River pours over a ledge of undercut greywacke and drops 35 m into a deep pool.
The walk to it is short. Hamilton and Waikato Tourism describes the forest along the way as native tawa and nīkau, and DOC says the track is generally well maintained, with some stairs, and leads directly to designated viewing points. The whole outing, there and back, takes about 20 minutes.
Track Conditions
DOC warns the track can be muddy, especially after rain, so wear shoes with some grip. Keep behind the barriers and fenced areas at the viewing points: DOC asks visitors not to go past them. Check DOC before you go for any changes to the track.
Getting There
From Waitomo, follow Te Anga Road west for 31 km to the small car park near the trailhead. If you are coming from the coast, the car park is 15 km east of Marokopa. The road out from Waitomo passes other short walks, which the regional tourism page suggests combining into a full day.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the walk to Marokopa Falls?
About 20 minutes return on an Easiest-grade track.
How high are the falls?
DOC gives the height as 35 m.
Where do I park?
In the small car park near the trailhead on Te Anga Road, 31 km west of Waitomo.
Can I get to the bottom of the falls?
DOC asks visitors not to go past the barriers or fenced areas. Enjoy the falls from the designated viewing points.
Is the track muddy?
It can be, especially after rain, according to DOC.
Can I bring my dog?
Many Waikato walks don’t allow dogs, so check with DOC before you go.
How far is it from Hamilton?
About 65 km in a straight line, beyond Waitomo on Te Anga Road.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
Related links 2
- Department of Conservation: Marokopa Falls Walk: track information, alerts and status. Track information: Crown Copyright: Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai 2026. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
- Hamilton and Waikato Tourism: Marokopa Falls: the walk, the forest and nearby short walks on the drive from Waitomo.