Matai Falls Walk

Out and back

While the track is generally flat, it can become a little muddy after a typical Catlins downpour. This shouldn’t deter you, though; it simply adds to the authentic atmosphere of the temperate rainforest. The walk to the falls is an out-and-back affair, meaning you’ll return the same way you came, giving you a second chance to spot any forest details you might have missed on the way in.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undeniable stars of the show are the waterfalls. Most visitors come for the namesake Matai Falls, a 10-metre-high cascade that drops gracefully over moss-stained rock faces into a shallow, clear pool. It isn't the tallest waterfall in the country, but its setting is incredibly intimate. The way the light filters through the overhead canopy creates a soft, ethereal glow on the water, making it one of the most photogenic spots in the region.

However, don't just stop at Matai! A short, slightly steeper detour from the main track will lead you to Horseshoe Falls. Named for its distinctive semi-circular shape, these falls offer a different aesthetic altogether. The water fans out over a wider ledge, creating a delicate veil of white water against the dark, wet stone. It’s only a few minutes extra walking, and the perspective shift is well worth the minimal effort.

Another highlight is the forest itself. Keep an eye out for the massive tree ferns (ponga) that lean over the stream, and the intricate layers of the forest "understorey." For those who enjoy a bit of quiet reflection, there are several spots along the stream where the water slows down, creating perfect mirrors of the surrounding greenery.

Getting There

Locating the trailhead is straightforward, as it sits right on the iconic Southern Scenic Route. The car park is located on the bush side of the Papatowai Highway, approximately 18 kilometres south of the township of Owaka. It is well-signposted, so you shouldn't miss it, though the entrance comes up quickly if you’re enjoying the drive!

The car park is a large gravel area with plenty of room for standard cars, vans, and SUVs. However, please note that it is not suitable for large buses due to the turning circle and entrance width.

Pro Tip: There are picnic tables available at the car park, making it a great spot for an alfresco lunch. However, there are no public toilets and no mobile phone service at the site. We recommend stopping in Owaka (a 15-minute drive east) to use the facilities and check your maps before heading into this section of the Catlins.

Wildlife Spotting

The Catlins is a stronghold for New Zealand’s native avian life, and the Matai Falls Walk is a fantastic place for birdwatching. The regenerating forest provides a rich food source, meaning you are almost guaranteed a "serenade" as you walk.

• Kererū (NZ Pigeon): These large, iridescent green and white birds are common year-round. You’ll often hear them before you see them—their wings make a heavy, rhythmic "whoosh-whoosh" sound as they fly between trees.
• Tūī: Look for the white tuft under their chins. They are the maestros of the forest, known for their complex songs of whistles, clicks, and bell-like notes.
• Fantail (Piwakawaka): These cheeky little birds are very likely to follow you along the track. They flit around to catch the insects disturbed by your footsteps.
• Bellbird (Korimako): Often confused with the Tūī’s song, the Bellbird has a pure, flute-like call. They are common year-round and love the flowering kōwhai and other native trees.
• Rifleman (Tītipiti): If you are very quiet and have a sharp eye, you might spot New Zealand’s smallest bird. They are tiny, high-pitched, and move incredibly fast along tree trunks.

The best time for bird spotting is early morning or late afternoon when the forest is most active. Bring a pair of binoculars if you have them, but even without gear, the proximity of the trees to the track allows for some great sightings.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Matai Falls Walk is a true all-seasons destination, with each time of year offering a different "vibe."

• Spring: This is when the forest is at its most vocal. The birds are nesting and the new growth on the ferns is a brilliant, bright green.
• Summer: The deep shade of the podocarp forest offers a welcome reprieve from the sun. The falls provide a natural cooling effect, making it the perfect midday escape.
• Autumn: The air is crisp, and the light is often golden and low, which is spectacular for photography.
• Winter: Don't write off a winter visit! The Catlins can be moody and atmospheric in the cold. After heavy rain, the falls are at their most powerful, and the mist clinging to the trees makes for a very "Lord of the Rings" aesthetic.

• Footwear: While it’s an easy walk, the track can be slippery and muddy. Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers with good grip are recommended.
• Layers: The weather in the Catlins is notoriously fickle. Even on a warm day, the forest interior can be cool. Bring a light rain jacket or a fleece.
• Insect Repellent: Like much of the South Island bush, sandflies can be present, especially near the water. A quick spray of repellent will keep your visit itch-free.
• Water: There is no potable water at the car park, so ensure you have a bottle with you.

Local & Regional Context

The Catlins (Te Kauteupoko) holds deep significance for both Māori and early European settlers. For Ngāi Tahu, the region was a rich "mahinga kai" (food gathering area), providing a bounty of forest birds and coastal resources. The Matai Stream and the surrounding valleys would have been part of a wider network of trails used by seasonal travellers.

In more recent history, the area was a hub for the timber industry. The fact that this walk uses a section of an old railway line is a nod to the rugged pioneers who worked these forests. The Catlins River Branch railway was once a vital link for moving timber and produce, and while the tracks are long gone, the "permanent way" remains as a corridor for hikers to enjoy.

Today, the area is a focal point for conservation. The regenerating forest you see today is a testament to the resilience of the New Zealand bush and the efforts to protect the remaining stands of ancient podocarp forest.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your walk and stretched your legs, you’ll likely be looking for a spot to refuel. Despite its remote feel, the area around Papatowai and Owaka has some fantastic options:

• Peake's Kitchen & Ice Cream (8km away): Located in Papatowai, this is a legendary stop. It’s a gourmet food truck that serves up incredible burgers and fish and chips using locally sourced ingredients. Their ice cream is the perfect post-hike reward, and the dog-friendly outdoor seating captures that classic "Kiwiana" summer vibe.
• Little Rocket Coffee (8km away): You can't miss the bright yellow caravan in Papatowai! This is the place to go for a caffeine hit and a slice of homemade cake or a fresh muffin. They have cozy, dog-friendly undercover seating and even offer wifi if you need to upload your waterfall photos.
• Catlins Café (16km away): If you're heading back toward Owaka, this restaurant is a great choice for a more substantial meal. They offer a unique mix of Kiwi classics (like their famous seafood chowder and blue cod) alongside traditional Thai dishes. With a warm fireplace, it’s the ultimate spot to warm up after a winter walk.

The Matai Falls Walk is more than just a quick stop on the side of the road; it’s a gateway into the soul of the Catlins. It’s easy, it’s beautiful, and it reminds us why New Zealand’s native wilderness is so special. Enjoy the serenity!

Little Rocket Coffee

8km away

A bright yellow caravan in Papatowai known for its excellent coffee and homemade baked goods, including muffins and cakes made from local produce. It offers a cozy, quirky stop for hikers, with wifi and dog-friendly undercover seating.