Mangawhero Falls is a 28-metre waterfall in Tongariro National Park, reached by a 300-metre walk from a car park 16 km up the Ohakune Mountain Road. It’s one of the easiest waterfall stops in the Central North Island — two lookout platforms, spectacular winter icicles, and a Lord of the Rings filming location all within a few minutes of the car.
Practical Information
| Location | Ohakune Mountain Road, 16 km from Ohakune, Tongariro National Park |
|---|---|
| Waterfall height | 28 m |
| Walk distance | 300 m return |
| Duration | 30–60 minutes including both lookouts |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Lookouts | Two — one at the top of the falls, one with a fuller view from below |
| Winter conditions | Icicles form around the falls in winter; avalanche terrain — check conditions before visiting |
| Managed by | Department of Conservation |
| Restrictions | No dogs or bikes |
| Cost | Free |
About the Falls
Mangawhero Falls drops 28 metres on the Mangawhero River — a river fed by the snowmelt and rainfall of the Tongariro volcanic plateau. The 300-metre return walk from the car park leads to two lookout platforms: one positioned at the top of the falls, and a second that provides a fuller view looking up at the cascade. The second lookout is the better of the two for photography.
In winter, icicles form around the lip of the falls, creating a distinctive frozen curtain on cold clear days. The area is designated complex avalanche terrain — visitors should check the NZ Avalanche Advisory or contact the Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre before visiting in snow conditions.
The falls are also known to Lord of the Rings fans — the area around the Mangawhero River was used as a filming location for scenes representing Ithilien and Gollum’s Pool in The Two Towers and Return of the King.
What Visitors Say
“Absolutely worth the short walk — the second lookout gives a much better view than the first. In winter the icicles around the falls are stunning. A perfect 20-minute stop on the mountain road.” — AllTrails reviewer
“Easy walk, impressive falls. Knowing this was a Lord of the Rings location made it extra interesting. Go to both lookouts — the upper one alone doesn’t do it justice.” — TripAdvisor reviewer
Where to Learn More
DOC — Mangawhero Falls Walk has official track information, winter safety notes, and access details.
AllTrails — Mangawhero Falls Walk has maps and 85 user reviews.
NZ Avalanche Advisory — check current conditions before visiting in winter, as the area is designated avalanche terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high are Mangawhero Falls?
28 metres, on the Mangawhero River in Tongariro National Park.
How long is the walk?
300 m return from the car park, taking 30–60 minutes including both lookouts.
Where is the car park?
16 km up the Ohakune Mountain Road from Ohakune. The car park is signposted on the road.
Is it safe to visit in winter?
The area is complex avalanche terrain. Check the NZ Avalanche Advisory (avalanche.net.nz) or contact Tongariro National Park Visitor Centre for current conditions before visiting in snow season.
Is this a Lord of the Rings location?
Yes — the Mangawhero River area was used as a filming location for The Two Towers and Return of the King, representing Ithilien and Gollum’s Pool.
Are there two lookouts?
Yes — the first lookout is near the top of the falls, while the second provides a fuller view looking up at the cascade. Both are on the short return track.
Mangawhero Falls is one of several waterfalls accessible on a day trip from Whanganui. See Waterfalls in Whanganui for more options across the district and region.