Photo: Scenic Falls New Zealand

Tourists stand atop the lookout points for a scenic view of the Huka Falls as the Waikato River near Taupo on the North Island of New Zealand squeezes through a narrow passage.

The Waikato River in Wairakei Park on the North Island of New Zealand is a fairly wide river of about 100 meters across until it reaches the narrowing gorge that expands about 15 to 20 meters across. Here the river drops over a 20 meter volcanic cliff and creates the natural scenic beauty known as the Huka Falls.

A vast amount of turquoise colored water rushes through this narrow gorge creating an incredible scenic picture for tourists that watch amongst the greenery from the lookout points above. Due to the amount of water passing through this gorge, the river creates a white foam surface and extremely strong rapids.

Lake Taupo is the largest freshwater lake in the regions of Australia, New Zealand, New Guinea and the close islands of the Pacific Ocean and this is where the Waikato River drains from. These scenic falls are the largest on the Waikato River and the river itself is known to be New Zealand's longest river. ... continue below the picture...

This picture is part of the photo album "Huka Falls" - there are more beautiful images waiting for you.

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If you are looking for a truly fascinating adventure, start an hour up river where the Waikato River is still calm and hike along the trail that follows the river bank through stunning New Zealand forests. The falls begin to get louder as you near the gorge and then the world opens up to this natural scenic wonder. Huka Falls near Taupo, New Zealand is a paradise and is well worth venturing to while on the North Island.

Huka Falls along the Waikato River, Wairakei Park, near Taupo, North Island, New Zealand.