Purakaunui Falls, Three-tiered waterfall in The Catlins, New Zealand
Purakaunui Falls is a waterfall in The Catlins that drops in three distinct tiers across roughly 20 meters. The water plunges through thick native forest, forming a series of pools that catch the water between each cascade.
The site received protection in the 1970s and was developed with maintained walking paths. The conservation authority secured the area to protect both the falls and the surrounding forest from damage.
The waterfall gained national recognition when it was selected to appear on a New Zealand postage stamp in 1976, representing natural landmarks.
A short walk of about ten minutes leads from the car park to the falls. Along the way there are toilet facilities and level viewing points that are accessible to most visitors.
The falls appeared on a New Zealand postage stamp in 1976, becoming one of the country's first natural features honored in this way. This recognition made the spot a notable symbol of the Catlins region.
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