Fantail Falls
Waterfall Picturesque waterfall accessed via short rainforest walk
Short walk from Haast Pass on New Zealand’s South Island, Fantail Falls offers tiered cascades and a rainforest boardwalk popular with passing motorists and photographers.
Fantail Falls is a roadside waterfall in New Zealand’s West Coast Region on the South Island, located along the route used to cross the Southern Alps.
A short, easy walking track from the highway leads to a viewing area close to the base of the falls, making it a convenient stop for travellers on the Haast Highway. The setting is forested and provides a brief, accessible nature experience without a long hike.
The falls are a natural feature used by motorists and tourists travelling the West Coast corridor; there is no built heritage associated with the site.
Set along the Haast Highway (State Highway 6) in the southern reaches of the West Coast Region, the falls are visited in transit between the West Coast and inland South Island destinations.
- Access: Accessible from State Highway 6 with a short, well-formed walking track from the roadside car park to a viewing point.
- Typical visit: Often visited as a quick stop when travelling the Haast Highway between the West Coast and the Wanaka/Mount Aspiring area.
How to Get to Fantail Falls #
Fantail Falls is on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. Access is via short walking tracks maintained by the Department of Conservation; check the DOC website or local visitor centres for exact route and parking information.
Tips for Visiting Fantail Falls #
- The walk to Fantail Falls is short but can be muddy-wear boots and be ready for spray near the base in high flow.
- The DOC (Department of Conservation) maintains tracks and signage on the West Coast; check for updates during heavy rain.
- Combine the falls with nearby short walks or a day trip if staying on the West Coast; the area rewards patience and clear weather.
Best Time to Visit Fantail Falls #
Summer is most convenient for travel, but spring can offer stronger flows and quieter tracks.
Weather & Climate near Fantail Falls #
Fantail Falls's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in January) and cold winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from -2°C to 19°C. Heavy rainfall (3385 mm/year), wettest in September.
January
January is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 8°C. Heavy rain (269 mm).
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February
February is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (186 mm).
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March
March is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 7°C. Heavy rain (289 mm).
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April
April is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 4°C. Heavy rain (298 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 1°C. Heavy rain (227 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -2°C. Significant rainfall (145 mm).
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 5°C and lows of -2°C. Heavy rain (302 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of -1°C. Significant rainfall (167 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 1°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (467 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. Heavy rain (464 mm).
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November
November is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 5°C. Heavy rain (344 mm).
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December
December is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 7°C. Heavy rain (227 mm).
