New Zealand's longest river, the Waikato River flows peacefully from Lake Taupo until it comes to a shallow ravine made of hard volcanic rock. Suddenly, what was placid, quiet water rumbles and roars at tremendous speeds before shooting out into the space before crashing 11 meters into a churning pool. The best place to see this natural spectacle is a footbridge at the top of the falls.
If you wish to see the enormous power of Huka Falls even closer, you can take a jet boat ride. A hike to the Spa Park along Huka Falls trail will allow you to follow the river and watch the build up to the falls. It is an easy one-hour hike to the area where the river is still slow and wide. You will pass through beautiful native forest full of exotic greenery.
Taupo 3377, New Zealand