McLean Falls
Waterfall Series of waterfalls in Catlins, scenic forest walks
A tall cascade in the Catlins with boardwalk viewing points and forested trails; visitors include day‑trippers and photographers on scenic coastal drives.
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McLean Falls are a series of cascades set within mature native forest in the Catlins region on New Zealand’s South Island. The falls form a scenic sequence of drops and pools framed by dense bush.
A formed walking track leads from the car park through native forest to viewing platforms and riverside vantage points, with the route suitable for most walkers. The falls are a common stop on drives through the Catlins and are noted for their layered cascades and forest setting.
The falls sit within the Catlins coastal landscape in southern Otago, close to the small service town of Owaka and accessible via the region’s scenic coastal routes.
- Walking time: A well-formed forest walk from the car park to the falls generally takes around 20 to 30 minutes each way along an established track.
How to Get to McLean Falls #
McLean Falls is reached from Owaka on the Catlins Coast. From Owaka, follow the McLean Falls Road (short sealed road) to the parking area; the walking track to the falls is roughly a 20-30 minute return on a well-formed trail. The Catlins are best accessed by car; public transport options are limited.
Tips for Visiting McLean Falls #
- Time the walk to avoid midday sun; early morning light through the beech forest is especially beautiful.
- Combine McLean Falls with a drive through the Catlins coastal stretch - Shortland and Purakaunui Falls are within an hour's drive for those who want more waterfalls in a day.
- Expect a well-formed track but watch for mud after rain; the lower trail can be slippery.
Best Time to Visit McLean Falls #
Best in late spring to early autumn for accessible trails and milder weather; the Catlins can be wet at any time of year.
Weather & Climate near McLean Falls #
McLean 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 18°C. Abundant rainfall (1105 mm/year), wettest in May.
January
January is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (111 mm) and breezy conditions.
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February
February is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (59 mm) and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 8°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm) and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 4°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (130 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm).
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 9°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (81 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 5°C. Regular rainfall (97 mm) and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm) and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (108 mm) and breezy conditions.
