Discover the Majestic Helena Falls
Experience the beauty of Helena Falls, a stunning waterfall in Fiordland National Park, surrounded by lush landscapes and breathtaking views.
Nestled in the heart of Fiordland National Park, Helena Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates visitors with its stunning cascades and lush surroundings. The short trek to the falls offers enchanting views and a chance to immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of New Zealand's landscapes.
A brief summary to Helena Falls
- Fiordland National Park, Manapouri, 9643, NZ
- +6432497924
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and capture the best photographs without crowds.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes as the track can be uneven and slippery in places.
- Bring a water bottle and snacks to enjoy a leisurely break while admiring the falls.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in Fiordland.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from Te Anau, which is approximately 20 kilometers (about 25 minutes) from Helena Falls. Head south on State Highway 94 towards Manapouri. When you reach Manapouri, continue on the road until you see signs for the Fiordland National Park. Look for the turnoff to the Helena Falls Track, which is well-marked. Park your car at the designated parking area, which is located near the track entrance.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take a bus from Te Anau to Manapouri. The local bus service runs regularly, and you can check the schedule ahead of time for specific times. Once you arrive in Manapouri, you will need to either walk (approximately 3 kilometers) to the Helena Falls Track or arrange for a taxi, which may cost around NZD 15-25. Follow the signs to the track entrance once you reach the area.
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Walking
If you prefer to hike, you can walk from the Manapouri village to Helena Falls. The walk is approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) and takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Follow the well-marked trail that leads you through beautiful native bush and alongside the river. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the trail can be uneven in places.
Discover more about Helena Falls
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Freeman Burn Hut
17.0 km
Experience the rustic charm and breathtaking views of Freeman Burn Hut, a mountain retreat amidst the stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park.
Lake Roe Hut
26.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Lake Roe Hut in Fiordland National Park, a mountain cabin offering adventure and tranquility in New Zealand's wilderness.
Rocky Point Shelter
31.3 km
Discover the serene Rocky Point Shelter in Fiordland, a perfect indoor lodging for hikers and nature lovers seeking tranquility and adventure.
hope Arm Hut
32.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Hope Arm Hut, a mountain cabin in Fiordland National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Te Anau Lions Lookout Point
45.8 km
Discover stunning panoramic views of Lake Te Anau at the Lions Lookout Point, a must-visit scenic spot in New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.
Lake Hauroko Lookout
59.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Lake Hauroko Lookout in Fiordland National Park, a must-visit scenic spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Cockburn's Tower
61.4 km
Explore Cockburn's Tower in Mount Prospect, a scenic spot blending natural beauty and rich history, perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.
The Southland App
68.1 km
Explore Southland's stunning attractions and local experiences with the Southland App, your essential travel companion in New Zealand.
Walker Creek DOC Campsite
74.6 km
Discover the tranquility of Walker Creek DOC Campsite in Fiordland National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and camping enthusiasts in New Zealand.
Westernmost Point of The South Island of New Zealand
75.5 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of the Westernmost Point of New Zealand's South Island, where rugged landscapes meet the roaring Tasman Sea.
Clifden Suspension Bridge
76.0 km
Experience the beauty and history of Clifden Suspension Bridge, a stunning architectural landmark set against the backdrop of Southland's natural beauty.
Worsley Hut
78.1 km
Experience the tranquility of Worsley Hut in Fiordland National Park, a rustic mountain cabin surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Eglinton Flats
79.0 km
Discover the serene landscapes and breathtaking views of Eglinton Flats, a must-visit destination in Southland, New Zealand, for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Kiosk Creek Campsite (DOC)
86.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Kiosk Creek Campsite in Fiordland National Park, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Cascade Creek Historic Camp site
95.7 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking beauty of Cascade Creek Historic Camp Site in Fiordland National Park, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nick's Landing
1.0 km
Experience serenity at Nick's Landing, a memorial park in Southland where nature and remembrance intertwine for a peaceful retreat.
Doubtful Sound View Point
5.0 km
Discover the stunning natural beauty and breathtaking views at Doubtful Sound View Point in New Zealand's Southland region.
The Cleve Garth Falls
7.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Cleve Garth Falls in Southland, New Zealand, where nature's tranquility awaits every traveler.
The Dusky Track Experience
9.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of The Dusky Track, a premier hiking destination in Southland, New Zealand.
Campbell's Kingdom NZ
11.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating outdoor adventures at Campbell's Kingdom NZ, a must-visit tourist attraction in Southland, New Zealand.
Fiordland National Park
16.3 km
Experience the breathtaking fjords, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park, a true natural wonder in New Zealand.
Herrick Creek
26.1 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Herrick Creek in Fiordland, a scenic spot perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Lake Manapouri
26.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Manapouri, New Zealand's hidden gem in the heart of Southland, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Iris Burn Hut
27.7 km
Experience the ultimate retreat at Iris Burn Hut, a serene accommodation along New Zealand's iconic Kepler Track amidst stunning Fiordland landscapes.
supper Cove
29.9 km
Discover the untouched beauty of Supper Cove in Southland, a tranquil tourist attraction perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Shelter Islands
30.1 km
Explore Shelter Islands in Southland, New Zealand, a serene tourist attraction offering breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, and a tranquil escape into nature.
The Dusky Track
31.6 km
Explore The Dusky Track in Southland, New Zealand - a breathtaking hiking adventure through stunning landscapes and pristine wilderness.
Kepler Track - Great Walks
31.9 km
Discover the breathtaking Kepler Track, a stunning hiking experience in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park, showcasing nature's beauty and diversity.
Kepler Track
31.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of the Kepler Track in Fiordland National Park, Southland, New Zealand.
Stony Point
32.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Stony Point in Manapouri, New Zealand - a tranquil tourist attraction perfect for nature lovers and explorers.
Essential places to dine
Redcliff Restaurant and bar
42.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at Redcliff Restaurant and Bar in Te Anau – where stunning views meet delectable local cuisine.
Naturally Fiordland
43.1 km
Savor local flavors at Naturally Fiordland, where culinary excellence meets stunning views in Te Anau's heart.
Ristorante Pizzeria Paradiso
43.1 km
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Sandfly Cafe Te Anau
43.2 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and fresh coffee at Sandfly Cafe Te Anau - your perfect start before exploring Fiordland's wonders.
Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen
43.2 km
Experience authentic New Zealand cuisine at Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen with stunning lakefront views in Te Anau.
The Ranch Bar & Grill
43.3 km
Experience family-friendly dining at The Ranch Bar & Grill in Te Anau, where hearty meals meet warm hospitality amidst stunning New Zealand landscapes.
The Fat Duck
43.3 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine at The Fat Duck in Te Anau—where local flavors meet culinary creativity.
Glow Worm Restaurant
43.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Time Traders
36.4 km
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Sawdust Designs
36.8 km
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Wild Wool Gallery (Alpaca Farm)
37.6 km
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Fiordland Nurseries & Mower Centre
42.8 km
Discover a gardening paradise at Fiordland Nurseries & Mower Centre, where lush greenery meets expert advice in stunning Te Anau, New Zealand.
Simply New Zealand - Te Anau - Lakefront
42.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Simply New Zealand - Te Anau Lakefront, the perfect souvenir shop for your New Zealand adventure.
RD Petroleum Lakeside On the Spot
42.9 km
Explore the wonders of Te Anau with all your travel essentials at RD Petroleum Lakeside On the Spot, the ultimate convenience store and fueling station.
Luxmore Souvenirs 南方禮品中心
42.9 km
Explore Luxmore Souvenirs in Te Anau for unique gifts and authentic Kiwi memorabilia that capture the spirit of New Zealand.
Jane Gilder Sewing & Design
43.0 km
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Four Square Te Anau
43.0 km
Discover Four Square Te Anau for all your grocery needs while exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland, New Zealand.
Outside Sports Te Anau
43.0 km
Your ultimate destination for outdoor gear in Te Anau, New Zealand, offering everything from bicycles to camping essentials for the perfect adventure.
Kiwi House
43.1 km
Discover unique New Zealand gifts at Kiwi House in Te Anau, where local craftsmanship meets unforgettable souvenirs.
Kiwi Country
43.1 km
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Jade Country
43.1 km
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Hospice Shop
43.1 km
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Wild Rides - Bike Fiordland
43.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Church Manapouri
36.3 km
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Manapouri Lakeview Cafe and Bar
36.8 km
Experience the beauty of Lake Manapouri while enjoying delicious meals and drinks at the Lakeview Cafe and Bar - a perfect spot for relaxation.
The Moose Bar and Armadillos Restaurant
42.9 km
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Armadillos Te Anau
42.9 km
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Bailiez Cafe & Bar
43.0 km
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The Explorer Bar
43.0 km
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Hollyford Cafe
43.1 km
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Black Dog Bar
43.2 km
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La Toscana Pizzeria
43.3 km
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Radha's Indian Restaurant
43.3 km
Experience the rich flavors and spices of authentic Indian cuisine at Radha's Indian Restaurant in Te Anau.
Milford Road Merchant
43.9 km
Discover the cozy Milford Road Merchant in Te Anau – your perfect stop for premium coffee and delicious takeaway meals amidst New Zealand's natural beauty.
Alpine Centre Cafe & Bar
44.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of scenic views and culinary delights at the Alpine Centre Cafe & Bar in Southland, New Zealand.
Nightcaps Hotel
87.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and local charm at Nightcaps Hotel, where every drink tells a story in the heart of New Zealand.
