McLean Falls

Overview

McLean Falls is a stunning 24-meter waterfall located in the Catlins Forest Park, known for its scenic beauty and lush surroundings. It's a popular spot for hiking and photography.

McLean Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the Catlins, showcasing the region's natural beauty and biodiversity.

Waterfall Hiking Photography

Location

Address

Catlins Forest Park, Otago

Neighborhood: Catlins

Coordinates

-46.221200, 169.276500

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$10

Children

$5

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November-March

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and better light for photography

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

30 minutes

Recommended

2 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• lush greenery
• wildflowers

summer

warm and sunny

• full water flow
• long daylight hours

autumn

cool and crisp

• fall colors
• clear skies

winter

cold and wet

• misty atmosphere
• lesser-known trails

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Wear sturdy shoes
Bring water
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

hiking shoes water camera

seasonal

warm layers sun hat sunscreen

not allowed

drones pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven trails
• slippery rocks

Medical facilities: nearest medical center in Owaka

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Typical Costs

parking $5

food $15

souvenirs $20

Dress Code

casual and comfortable, hiking gear, waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking shoes, flip flops, high heels

Booking Tips

• Not required
• None
• Not applicable
• Not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Catlins Explorer

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Trail guides, Wildlife info

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Invercargill Airport

Distance: 100 km

Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

car

Fuel costs 1 hour 30 min

public_transport

$20 2 hours 30 min

From City Center

Distance: 50 km

car

Fuel costs 45 min

bus

$10 1 hour

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere

Historical Significance: Part of the ancient Catlins forest

Insider Tips

Best views from the viewing platform
Wildlife spotting early in the morning

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby Curio Bay
• Try local cafes in Owaka

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Kia ora

thank_you Ngā mihi

where_is Kei hea...

how_much I teu teu

beautiful Māwhero

ticket Tiki

Guide Languages: English, Māori

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Viewing platform

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle for the full view

Result: Stunning waterfall shot

#nature #waterfall #catlins

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas none

flash photography not recommended

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy not allowed

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Curio Bay

Distance: 15 km

Walking: 30 min by car

Type: Beach

Nugget Point Lighthouse

Distance: 20 km

Walking: 40 min by car

Type: Lighthouse

Reviews

4.7

Based on 850 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Visit early for the best photos"
"Bring layers, weather can change quickly"
"Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere"

Contact Information

+64 3 233 8808

info@catlins.nz

www.catlins.nz

Social Media

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