Buller District: Limestone, forests and mining history

The Buller District stretches from Punakaiki in the south to Kahurangi National Park at the northern tip of the West Coast; it includes Karamea and Reefton, among other places. Limestone formations, forest and coastal trails, wildlife and mining history appeal to different travel interests. When choosing a hotel, it helps to first decide which places and activities you want to shape your stay.

Limestone, forest and trails

The Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Walk passes through a limestone landscape featuring pancake-shaped rock formations, blowholes and surge pools. The track is open year-round and suitable for wheelchair users with assistance; check conditions before your visit. At Ōpārara Arch, an easy, family-friendly 1.1-kilometre track winds through beech and podocarp forests. The walk takes about 30 minutes.

The Ōparara Basin is a sanctuary for the great spotted kiwi and a habitat for rare short-tailed bats, giant snails, cave spiders and whio, also known as blue ducks. Those interested in wildlife will find a different perspective on the district here than on the trails through the limestone landscape: the Basin and its sanctuary and the species mentioned are the focus.

Plan walks and bike rides

The Heaphy Track crosses extensive tussock-covered highlands, lush forests and stands of nīkau palms before reaching the West Coast. Along the track are six huts and nine campsites; they must be booked well in advance year-round. Mountain bikes are permitted there from 1 May to 30 November. Check for possible temporary closures before setting off.

The Old Ghost Road is a walking and mountain biking trail through the Buller District. The route passes through native forest, open tussock-covered highlands, river flats and forgotten valleys. The Lyell Saddle, Ghost Lake, Stern Valley and Specimen Point huts along the Old Ghost Road are managed by the Mokihinui Lyell Backcountry Trust; bookings are required. Another cycling option is the 50-kilometre, family-friendly Kawatiri Coastal Trail.

Coastal life and history

The seal colony at Cape Foulwind is home to New Zealand fur seals, also known as kekeno, year-round. Information panels along the Cape Foulwind Walkway tell stories of Māori history, sea voyages and early explorers. This brings together the wildlife of the cape and stories of the people and journeys of the region.

In Reefton, the School of Mines and Oddfellows Hall are of particular historical significance. Oddfellows Hall was the first public building in New Zealand to have electric lighting installed. The Denniston Historic Area includes the heart of the original mining operations and subsequent mining activities in the Buller District.

Buller Gorge is a valley about a 40-minute drive from Westport. At Hawks Crag, the road passes through the rock face. Activities in the gorge include fishing and whitebaiting. There is a Cometline ride at Buller Swing Bridge; check current activity details before making plans. In Charleston, Underworld Adventures offers an experience featuring glowworms. If you plan to take part, check availability before your trip.

Within the wider West Coast destination

The Paparoa Track in the wider West Coast destination crosses alpine ridgelines and limestone karst landscapes and passes through lush rainforest. It is one of New Zealand's ten Great Walks.

Discover more destinations: Westport, Punakaiki, Charleston, Maruia, Granity, Little Wanganui, Greymouth, Westland District

Back to the wider travel overview: West Coast.