Mclean Falls

Plunging 22 metres into a deep, mossy gorge, Mclean Falls is one of the Catlins’ most spectacular waterfalls. A short walk through lush native forest, alive with birdcall, leads to a viewing platform where you can feel the spray on your face. The falls are fed by the Tautuku River, which cascades over a series of stepped ledges before the final drop – a dramatic sight after heavy rain.

Highlights & What to See

• The waterfall itself: Watch the water thunder over the rocky amphitheatre; look for rainbows on sunny afternoons.
• Bush walk: The 20-minute track winds through rimu, beech and tree ferns, with frequent stops for bellbirds and fantails.
• Lower viewing platform: Offers a wider angle of the falls and the plunge pool – great for photos without crowds.
• Nearby Tautuku Estuary: A short drive away, this tranquil spot is perfect for a picnic and spotting wading birds.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1–1.5 hours for the return walk and time to soak in the scenery. It’s an easy detour on the Southern Scenic Route, so you can comfortably fit it into a half-day exploring the Catlins. Visit after rain for the fullest flow.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Purakaunui Falls: Another stunning waterfall, just 15 minutes north, with a shorter walk and a more intimate setting.
• Cathedral Caves: Huge sea caves accessible at low tide, about 20 minutes south – a unique coastal experience.
• Nugget Point / Tokātā: Iconic lighthouse and colony of fur seals and sea lions, 30 minutes south – a must for wildlife lovers.
• Slope Point: The southernmost point of the South Island, with dramatic cliffs and a wind-bent forest, 25 minutes south.
• Curio Bay: Fossilised forest and a yellow-eyed penguin colony, 35 minutes south; best visited at dusk.

Please check official sources for current details.