Right off the Haast Pass road, Thunder Creek Falls is one of those quick but unmissable stops. A 28-metre waterfall drops dramatically into the Haast River, surrounded by lush native bush — and the best part is it only takes a couple of minutes to reach from the car park.

Walk details
📏 Distance: ~200 m return
⏱️ Time: 5–10 mins return
🚶‍♀️ Track: Easy, flat, wheelchair + stroller accessible
🌲 Start: Thunder Creek Falls car park, SH6

I found an epic swimming hole here, too! As you get to the waterfall, turn right and wander down for 10 minutes and you'll spot a wider opening to the river. It's freezing, but was a gorgeous swim in the summer (see the pic!).