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Destinations › Australia & Oceania › New Zealand

National Park

calendar_monthNov–Aprbest time schedule2 daysplan for directions_car4 h 32from Wellington child_careYeswith kids confirmation_numberBudgetprice
National ParkYour own route Plan a trip here →

National Park in New Zealand is a small town that serves as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of Mount Field National Park. Visitors often come for the lush greenery and the iconic waterfalls, particularly Russell Falls, which is easily accessible and popular among tourists.

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The town itself is quiet, with limited amenities. It offers a few basic accommodations and a visitor information center where you can gather details about the park. The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

Routes through here

★ Our pick 9 nights · 8 stops New Zealand North Island: Auckland to Wellington Auckland → Wellington

Every route opens in the planner as your own copy: change any stop, any night.

Sightseeing

Russell Falls: the most famous waterfall in the park
Horseshoe Falls: a quieter alternative to Russell Falls
Lady Barron Falls: another beautiful waterfall nearby
Tall Trees Walk: a scenic walk among towering eucalyptus trees
Mount Field Plateau: offers expansive views and hiking opportunities
Lakes Belton and Belcher: remote lakes accessible via challenging trails

"Nature's beauty at your doorstep"National Park

Things to do

Hike the Three Falls Circuit: a popular trail connecting Russell Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and Lady Barron Falls.
Explore the Tall Trees Walk: a 1-kilometre trail among Eucalyptus Regnans, some of the tallest trees in Australia.
Visit the visitor information center: gather maps and tips for your visit.
Take photographs of Russell Falls: capture the iconic waterfall and its surroundings.

Local food and drinks

Visitor Information Centre: offers limited snacks and drinks
Mount Field Government Huts: basic accommodations with no cooking facilities
Local cafes in nearby towns: options for meals outside the park
Pack a picnic: many visitors bring their own food to enjoy in nature
Local traditions - National Park Burton Brothers, Dunedin · Public domain

Local traditions

Annual Mount Field Festival: celebrates local flora and fauna
Guided nature walks: led by local experts to educate visitors
Conservation efforts: community involvement in preserving the park's ecosystem

Do's and don'ts

Bring a camera to capture the waterfalls
Wear sturdy shoes for hiking trails
Check the weather before heading out
Respect wildlife and park rules
Don't litter or disturb the natural environment
Don't feed the animals: it can harm them
Don't underestimate trail difficulties: some are challenging
Don't rely on mobile service: it can be spotty in the park

Practical

At a glance

Population
100
Accessibility
Some areas are wheelchair accessible, but many trails are not.
Price level
Budget

Things to know

Limited amenities in the town: plan ahead for food and supplies.
Transport options are minimal: walking is necessary within the park.
Weather can change quickly: dress in layers and be prepared.
Wildlife encounters are possible: keep a safe distance from animals.
history_eduHistoryexpand_more

Established in 1916, National Park is one of Tasmania's oldest national parks. The area was protected for its natural beauty as early as 1885, making it a significant site for conservation efforts. The park was originally called 'National Park' before being officially renamed in 1947, though the town retains the original name.

The region has a rich geological history, with glaciers shaping the landscape during the Pleistocene period. The last known wild thylacine was captured here in 1933, highlighting the area's importance in wildlife conservation. Today, the park continues to attract visitors seeking to experience its natural wonders.