As you leave the carpark across a bridge you’ll be in regenerating podocarp and broadleaf forest. Follow the track down and you will come across an intersection, taking the left route takes you down the old rail line that used to connect Owaka to Tahakopa Township.

If you stick to the main track you will get to enjoy the 10 metre tall waterfall. Created to gather rock for the foundations of the railway. The waterfall is surrounded by moss and trees.

Matai Falls is signposted on Papatowai Highway, 18 km south of Owaka. There is a lot of carparking on the bush side of the road at the track entrance.

The carpark is not suitable for large busses.