Huka falls

Huka falls track was a soothing color palette in the mist of those cloudy late-summer days.

Being one of the most visited natural attractions in New Zealand, the one-hour bushwalk to Huka Falls was surprisingly relaxing and quiet although it was still in the peak season. From the lush lawns of Spa Thermal Park we left our rented car and walked downstream alongside the Waikato river. After crossing adjacent pine trees and a little natural hot spring under the grey wooden bridge, we found ourselves in a narrow trodden walkway surrounded by tropical plants from fast-growing palms to various fern species. It was still and restful. By the river, some tall, skinny trees gracefully stretched its arms and bended down to touch the water surface. The tangled branches reflected themselves onto the river, casting a dark shadow against the calm, blue-green background.

The beautiful Waikato river slowly revealed itself as we walked northwards, adding various shades of blue to the green-dominated picture. On impulse, I ventured into a bleached, dry grass path to see the river as much as I could, wondering how it had gained that glassy clarity. The surface still glowed brightly even in the absence of sunlight and it was so tempting I wish I could reach out to splash the water.

Following the roaring sounds we soon hit a pedestrian bridge which offers a stunning view of the mighty turquoise-blue Huka falls. It was an awe-inspiring sight, a feast of the senses. The rushing water drowned out every other sound. The crystal light blue was blended with pure white bubbles as the waterfall roared and rumbled under the bridge. Every second up to 220,000 litres of water plunged nine meters over the cliff, yet with naked eyes it felt like the water was flowing almost horizontally. At some point I remember the sun shed lights onto the falls, making them a little bluer.

We leaned our back against the bridge for a long while to watch the falls before checking out another lookout cliff. Nature is full of wonder and surprises. It breaks down every stereotype we have and defines beauty in its own way.