Sutherland Falls

Sutherland Falls is the most impressive waterfall in New Zealand and with its 580 meters in tree vertical leaps, it is considered as one of the world’s tallest waterfalls. Travelers from the world over who make the extensive trek in the remote south island of New Zealand are rewarded with the breathtaking view of the Sutherland Falls. The indigenous people of New Zealand called the Maori call this magnificent falls the White Thread of Te Tautea. Once you walk to the base of the falls, you will feel the strong force of water. As the air fills with mist, visibility is reduced and the sound of the falls is quite loud that it seems like an airplane is just on top.

Sutherland Falls has a ‘tiered plunge’ because the water makes three various leaps on its decent. The water of the falls comes from Lake Quill, which is a rock basin that directly falls over the vertical cliff. The majestic falls was named after a great explorer, Donald Sutherland, who located it while discovering travel routes between Lake Wakatipu and Milford Sound.

To be able to visit the falls, you should hike along the Milford Track, which is one of the exciting walking trails in New Zealand. Remember that this part of the track is one of the most challenging so travelers must be well equipped with appropriate clothing, gears and footwear.

In order to get a better view of the landscape or if you are interested in visiting the base of the falls, it is necessary to take a ninety-minute return tour from the trail. This tour starts from the Quinton Hut shelter and a lot of visitors who go to the falls usually leave their backpacks in the shelter in order to travel easily and experience the Sutherland Falls. Keep in mind that the weather in this part of New Zealand is unpredictable so it is important to bring not only your flashlights but also your wet weather gears and comfortable attires that can be suitable for both cold and hot weathers.