Devils Punchbowl Waterfall

Devils Punchbowl Falls is tucked inside Arthur's Pass National Park, on the South Island. It drops 131 metres, straight down a steep rock gorge, and the pool at the bottom is shaped like a bowl — that's where the name comes from. The trail there is well maintained, about 30 minutes one way, and you end up right in front of the falls, close enough to feel the roar of the water. PS: the walk itself is easy, but that last stretch of stairs is no joke. Getting there: punch "Devils Punchbowl Walking Track" into your GPS. From the Arthur's Pass entrance, just follow the signs — about 30 minutes and you're at the viewing platform below the falls. This is an easy trail, about 1 hour round trip, and honestly beginner-friendly. You don't need to be a hiker for this one. Route highlights Round trip is about an hour, gentle slope overall — the only catch is the stairs. If your knees aren't great, think twice. The scenery along the way is really untouched, and there's a chance of spotting a wild kiwi bird. No dogs allowed on the track. This is kiwi habitat, so it's for a real reason, not just a rule. From Christchurch it's about a 4-hour round trip by car, which makes it a solid one-day trip out and back. We got there around 4pm and there was almost no one around, so we took our time with photos. The waterfall is genuinely spectacular in person, and it photographs even better — this is the biggest waterfall in Arthur's Pass. From the car park, you actually catch your first glimpse of it from a distance, crossing the little bridge before you even reach the base. Devils Punchbowl Waterfall Toilets at the car park