Murchison is known as the "whitewater capital of New Zealand". However, that sort of activity isn't for everyone and Maruia Falls is one of the most popular alternatives. Although the waterfall is only 10m high, it’s wide, powerful, and seriously impressive. There’s a short 5-minute track that leads down to the base of the falls. If you plan on visiting Maruia Falls, please do not swim or try to get any closer to the falls as it’s very dangerous.

The waterfall is easily accessible via a short walk from a signposted carpark off State Highway 65, 23km south of Murchison.