Sutherland Falls, Waterfall in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Sutherland Falls is a waterfall in Fiordland National Park where water plunges 581 meters in three distinct cascades. The central section drops 248 meters in a single vertical leap.
Donald Sutherland discovered the waterfall in 1880 and initially reported it as 1000 meters high. Surveys later confirmed the actual height of 581 meters.
The waterfall served as a filming location for the Hobbit movies, bringing international recognition to New Zealand's natural landscape. It has become part of how people around the world imagine this corner of the country.
The waterfall can be reached by a 90-minute walk from Quintin Public Shelter along the Milford Track. The route requires standard walking gear and is best done in good weather.
Lake Quill above feeds the waterfall and creates three separate drops. The water descends at a steep angle across the rock face as it falls.
Location: Southland Region
Height: 248 m
GPS coordinates: -44.80066,167.72949
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02
Waterfalls draw you in through your senses. You hear the roar of falling water, feel the mist on your skin, and watch light dance across the spray. Many of the most powerful examples are found in places that stay relatively untouched, where reaching them is half the reward. These destinations give...
Milford Sound / Piopiotahi
23.2 km
Routeburn Track
35.8 km
Mitre Peak
21.2 km
Te Wahipounamu
41.6 km
Te Ana-au Caves
55.1 km
Southern Lakes
63.7 km
Mount Earnslaw
56.8 km
Bowen Falls
21.6 km
Greenstone and Caples Tracks
50.8 km
Humboldt Falls
34.1 km
Routeburn Classic
35.8 km
Bridal Veil Falls
42.5 km
Stirling Falls
24 km
Donne Glacier
33.2 km
Giant Gate Falls
14.5 km
Anderson Cascades
3.9 km
Lake Marian Falls
29.4 km
Christie Falls
27.7 km
Cleddau Valley Vistas Waterfalls
20.8 km
Hidden Falls
36.4 km
Mackay Falls
9.4 km
The Chasm Falls
19.4 km
Dudleigh Falls
2.4 km
Earland Falls
33.9 km
Lindsay Falls
2.2 km
Hirere Falls
12.2 km
The Lion
24.6 km
Forward Peak
64.5 kmReal people, real opinions — but not verified.
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
One of the many attractions of the incredible Milford Track
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes