When I first visited New Zealand’s South Island in 2011, I focused on Queenstown and Fiordland National Park. On a return trip in 2024, we had a week to explore the island more broadly. Due to some limitations with our group, I opted for a different approach. We began in Christchurch and made a loop through the central part of the island, spending a few days in Hokitika before driving along the west coast.
State Highway 6 runs the length of the South Island, closely following the coast for much of its route. At Haast, the road turns inland. This stretch is a waterfall hunter’s paradise. Along a 20-mile section, there are at least five easily accessible waterfalls. For much of this drive, the Haast River runs alongside the road, its waters framed by stunning mountain scenery.
Roaring Billy Falls was the third waterfall we visited in this area. While the first two were unmarked, Roaring Billy has a clearly signed parking area with plenty of space. I don’t recall if the falls are visible from the road, but they might be. The trail to the falls is about 0.5 miles (0.8 km) one way and relatively flat, though there may be a short section near the end that requires some maneuvering.
At the end of the trail, you’re rewarded with views of both Roaring Billy Falls and the Haast River, into which the falls flow. Though not the most dramatic of the waterfalls we saw, the setting is spectacular. Standing on the riverbank, you’ll see the Haast’s remarkable emerald-blue water, colored by glacial rock flour from the mountains above.
Directions:
- Driving, there is only one option here: New Zealand 6. There aren’t many populated cities here. These and other falls are in between Haast (population 90) and Makarora (population 400). If you’re heading north/west along NZ 6, the parking area will be on your right.
Accessibility: 9/10 (easy)
Height: 98′ (30 m)
Distance of Hike: 0.9 miles (1.4 km) round-trip
Where in the Roaring Billy Falls?
Waterfall Record 
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