Last updated July 2026
Raukawa Falls is a broad curtain of water on the Mangawhero River, visible from an official lookout directly beside State Highway 4 on the drive between Whanganui and Raetihi. The falls drop 15 metres over a basalt ledge and can spread up to 50 metres wide after rain. They rank among the most accessible waterfalls in the district, reached by a short walk from a roadside car park with a viewing platform and space to pause. The site lies roughly 60 kilometres northeast of Whanganui, about a 45-minute drive on SH4. A small car park holds three to four vehicles, and the stop is free for all visitors.
Practical Information
| Location | SH4, approx. 60 km northeast of Whanganui (between Raetihi and Whanganui) |
| Drive from Whanganui | Approx. 45 minutes northeast on SH4 |
| Waterfall height | 15 m |
| Waterfall width | Up to 50 m |
| Access | Short walk from roadside car park to viewing platform |
| Parking | Small car park off SH4 (space for 3–4 cars) |
| Facilities | Viewing platform; YMCA Raukawa Adventure Centre nearby |
| Cost | Free |
About Raukawa Falls
Raukawa Falls sits on the Mangawhero River and drops over a wide basalt ledge into a pool below. The falls are positioned right beside SH4, making them one of the easiest waterfall stops in the region, a natural break point on the drive between Whanganui and National Park Village or Ohakune. A well-maintained path leads from the car park to the viewing platform overlooking the falls.
The falls are at their most impressive after rainfall, when the flow spreads across the full width of the ledge. The drive northeast on SH4 passes through attractive hill country, and the falls serve as a natural midpoint to stretch the legs. YMCA Camp Raukawa, an outdoor education centre established in 1956, lies nearby and offers programmes for schools and groups.
Raukawa Falls is a typical block waterfall visible from the official lookout platform on SH4. The sealed road surface makes the route straightforward for most vehicles year-round.
Visiting Raukawa Falls
Visitors reach the viewing platform via a two-minute return walk from the signed car park on SH4. The platform provides safe, close-up views without needing to leave the roadside area. Flow varies with rainfall, so the falls appear narrower in dry periods and broader after heavy rain. No facilities other than the platform exist at the site itself.
What Visitors Often Say
A pleasant roadside stop that is easy to find with the platform right there. It takes only a few minutes and offers a worthwhile view plus a quick stretch on a longer drive.
After rain the falls spread wide and powerful. The small car park can fill quickly, yet the stop remains free and convenient for a highway break.
Where to Learn More
NZ Waterfalls Database — Raukawa Falls: GPS coordinates, access details, and visitor notes for the site.
World of Waterfalls — Raukawa Falls: Description, photos, and context on the Mangawhero River location.
YMCA Camp Raukawa: Information on the nearby outdoor education centre and its programmes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Raukawa Falls?
On SH4 between Whanganui and Raetihi, approximately 60 km northeast of Whanganui, about a 45-minute drive. The car park is signed from the road.
How big are Raukawa Falls?
The falls are 15 m high and up to 50 m wide, dropping over a basalt ledge on the Mangawhero River.
Is there a walk to the falls?
It is a very short walk from the roadside car park to the viewing platform, a matter of a few minutes each way.
Are the falls free?
Yes, completely free to visit.
Is the car park large?
No, the car park holds approximately 3–4 cars. Arrive early in summer or on weekends to secure a space.
Are the falls affected by drought or rain?
Yes, flow varies significantly. After rain the falls spread to their full width; in dry periods they become narrower.
What is nearby?
YMCA Camp Raukawa, an outdoor education centre established in 1956, lies close to the falls and runs programmes for schools and groups.
Is the road sealed?
Yes, SH4 is sealed all the way, making access straightforward for standard vehicles.
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