Purakaunui Falls is a three-tiered waterfall in the Catlins coastal area, which the Department of Conservation describes as one of Otago's most photographed sights. A walk through mature beech forest leads to a top viewing platform, and the track then descends to the falls. The track is suitable for wheelchair users to the top platform. Customers say the walk takes about 10 minutes if taken slowly, with only a small number of steps and good railings. The last stretch is the steepest. A pushchair is not suitable, but small walkers manage it easily.
To get there, turn off the Papatowai Highway onto Purakaunui Falls Road, 6.3 km south of Owaka, or onto Warnock Road, 10.8 km south of Owaka. The falls are signposted at both turn-offs. Customers mention the gravel road, the car park and the toilets, and say the walk is popular with families. Halfway down, you can step off the main track to see the top of the falls, which one visitor warned is wet and slippery. Dogs must be on a leash. Our pick in the Catlins for a short forest walk to a waterfall.