Hike to the pristine Waitonga Falls, one of New Zealand’s most beautiful short hikes, shot on a clear winters day.

The walk begins crossing over a bridge into the park itself. The track rises as you leave behind the sounds of everyday life and experience a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with wild Kakariki, a rare endemic parrot. Other iconic birds like Tui and Korimako (NZ Bellbird) are encountered as the track climbs to a lush alpine meadow with clear views across Mt Tongariro. Frozen mountain tarns mark the apex of the hike before descending through forest and birdsong to the Waitonga falls proper, still mostly frozen in the morning light. The hike goes off-track to explore the beauty of the falls and river close-up.

BONUS: There and Back Again. This hike includes the return journey, walked in the evening, that captures the mountain gracefully reflected in the watery tarns and golden light streaming through the trees.

Enjoy the Waitonga Falls virtual hike in 4K60 quality and stereo audio. Speed controls allow you to slow the journey for extra relaxation, or speed it up to accompany a treadmill or exercise bike.