Bowen Falls, Coastal waterfall in Southland Region, New Zealand

Bowen Falls (Māori: Hineteawa) is a 162-metre waterfall at the south-eastern end of Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, 360 metres north of the tourist boat wharf. It is fed by the 9-kilometre Bowen River, which rises in the catchment of the 2,226-metre Mt Grave. It is one of only two permanent waterfalls discharging into the fiord, and the tallest.

The falls and the 9 km Bowen River were named for Diamantina Bowen, wife of New Zealand's fifth governor, George Bowen, who visited Milford Sound aboard HMS Clio in 1871. In 1919 Donald Sutherland, a hermit who built a hostel near the landing in 1891 and is credited with discovering Sutherland Falls, was buried at the foot of the falls; his wife was buried there four years later.

The falls are named for Diamantina Bowen, wife of New Zealand's fifth governor, George Bowen, who visited Milford Sound aboard HMS Clio in 1871; the name marks that visit. The Māori name Hineteawa is also recorded for the waterfall. Donald Sutherland, credited with discovering Sutherland Falls, lived as a hermit nearby and built a hostel near today's wharf in 1891; he was buried at the foot of the falls in 1919, his wife four years later.

Weather conditions can change rapidly in this location, so bring waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear for any exploration. The best views come from the water itself, making a boat tour or guided excursion the most practical way to experience it.

Donald Sutherland, credited with discovering Sutherland Falls, lived as a hermit near Bowen Falls and built a lodge close to today's wharf in 1891. He was buried at the foot of the falls in 1919, and his wife four years later.