{"id":223702,"date":"2025-03-22T09:59:35","date_gmt":"2025-03-22T09:59:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/?p=223702"},"modified":"2025-03-22T09:59:35","modified_gmt":"2025-03-22T09:59:35","slug":"sutherland-falls","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/sutherland-falls\/","title":{"rendered":"Sutherland Falls: Discover New Zealand\u2019s Majestic Waterfall"},"content":{"rendered":"

Sutherland Falls is one of New Zealand’s tallest waterfalls, plunging 580 metres in three sections\u2014815 feet, 751 feet, and 338 feet\u2014within Fiordland National Park. Located 23 kilometres southeast of Milford Sound, the falls are fed by Lake Quill, a glacial lake that overflows its edge, sending water crashing down a steep rock face. The sheer size and force of the falls make them a major draw for hikers and nature enthusiasts. This guide explores what makes this waterfall New Zealand, a must-see destination, from its towering drop to the challenging yet rewarding journey required to witness it up close.<\/em><\/p>\n

Location<\/h2>\n
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Photo: Aleksey Kuprikov \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

If you are wondering where is the waterfall, it is located in Fiordland National Park on New Zealand\u2019s South Island. It is part of the Milford Track, one of the country’s Great Walks, and can only be reached on foot or by air. The falls are about 90 kilometres northwest of Te Anau, the nearest town, and are within the UNESCO-listed Te W\u0101hipounamu region, known for its fjords, mountains, and forests.<\/p>\n

About<\/h2>\n
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Photo: Jonathan Meyer \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

For those wondering how was waterfall formed, it was formed by glacial activity during the Ice Age. Lake Quill, a glacial lake, sits in a rock basin carved by moving ice. Water spills over a steep rock face as the lake overflows, dropping 580 metres in three sections. This natural process created one of New Zealand’s tallest and most powerful waterfalls within the Fiordland National Park.<\/p>\n

How To Reach<\/h2>\n
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Photo: Alex P \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

By Foot:<\/strong> Hiking the Milford Track is the most common way to reach the waterfall. This four-day, 53.5-kilometre trail passes through forests, rivers, and valleys, with a side track leading to the falls on the third day. Hut bookings are required.<\/p>\n

By Air:<\/strong> Small plane tours from Te Anau or Queenstown offer a chance to see the waterfall from above. This option provides wide views of the surrounding landscapes without the effort of a long hike. Helicopter tours from Te Anau or Milford Sound provide a closer look at the falls, often with a short landing nearby. It’s a great way to experience the scale of the waterfall from the air.<\/p>\n

By Boat & Flight:<\/strong> Some tours combine a Milford Sound cruise with a scenic flight over Fiordland, including views of the waterfall. This allows visitors to experience both the fjords and the falls in one trip.<\/p>\n

Places To Visit Near Sutherland Falls<\/h2>\n

Here are ten noteworthy places to visit around Sutherland Falls New Zealand:<\/p>\n

1. Milford Sound<\/h2>\n
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Photo: W. Bulach \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Milford Sound is known for its towering cliffs, dramatic waterfalls, and deep fjords. Boat cruises take visitors past sheer rock faces and waterfalls, while kayaking offers a quieter way to take in the surroundings. Wildlife is a big part of the experience, with seals lounging on rocks, dolphins swimming alongside boats, and penguins sometimes making an appearance. Rain is common, creating temporary waterfalls along the cliffs. The drive to Milford Sound is just as impressive, with plenty of scenic stops along the way.<\/p>\n

Location:<\/strong> Fiordland National Park, New Zealand<\/p>\n

2. Lake Te Anau<\/h2>\n
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Photo: Krzysztof Golik \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

The largest lake of New Zealand\u2019s South Island, Lake Te Anau, is a starting point for exploring the Fiordland National Park. It\u2019s a great place for a boat ride, with cruises heading to glowworm caves where tiny lights dot the ceilings like stars. Walking tracks line parts of the lake, offering peaceful spots to take in the views. Fishing is popular here, and the town of Te Anau has plenty of restaurants, caf\u00e9s, and places to stay for those looking to explore the area.<\/p>\n

Location:<\/strong> Te Anau, South Island, New Zealand<\/p>\n

3. Routeburn Track<\/h2>\n
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Photo: Ilya Grigorik \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

The Routeburn Track is a 32 km hiking trail linking Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks. It\u2019s a multi-day walk through beech forests, river valleys, and high mountain ridges. Along the way, hikers pass waterfalls, clear blue lakes, and open alpine areas with wide views. The track is well-maintained, with huts and campsites for overnight stays. It\u2019s a challenging but rewarding walk, offering a mix of steep climbs and easy stretches through forested areas.<\/p>\n

Location:<\/strong> Fiordland & Mount Aspiring National Parks, New Zealand<\/p>\n

4. Doubtful Sound<\/h2>\n
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Photo: W. Bulach \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Doubtful Sound is larger and quieter than Milford Sound, making it a good choice for those looking to explore without the crowds. Getting there is part of the adventure\u2014first, a boat ride across Lake Manapouri, then a coach trip over Wilmot Pass, followed by another boat trip into the fjord. The water is calm, and seeing dolphins, seals, and sometimes even rare Fiordland crested penguins is common. Boat tours and kayaking trips offer different ways to experience the fjord.<\/p>\n

Location:<\/strong> Fiordland National Park, New Zealand<\/p>\n

5. Kepler Track<\/h2>\n
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Photo: Michal Klajban \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

The Kepler Track takes hikers through a mix of forested valleys, high ridgelines, and lakefront sections. It\u2019s a well-marked and structured trail with designated huts for overnight stays. The climb to Luxmore Hut on the first day offers wide views over Lake Te Anau, followed by ridgeline walking with even bigger vistas. The track then winds through beech forests and alongside the Waiau River. It\u2019s a good choice for those looking for a multi-day hike without the navigation challenges of some backcountry routes.<\/p>\n

Location:<\/strong> Fiordland National Park, New Zealand<\/p>\n

Must-Have Experiences<\/h2>\n
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Photo: Archie Binamira \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n