Kokatahi: Packrafting on the Lower Kokatahi River

Kokatahi: a focus on rivers and the outdoors

Two specific outdoor activities take center stage in Kokatahi: the Lower Kokatahi River and the Lower Kokatahi Track to Crawford Junction. The 4 km stretch of the Lower Kokatahi River is a half-day packrafting trip rated Grade II+/III. The river section begins with a very scenic entry gorge. Dense bush rises above the deep blue water. The distance, time required, and difficulty provide a practical framework for planning; check river conditions and access before setting out.

Access to the Lower Kokatahi packrafting route begins at a designated car park on Middlebranch Road. A large DOC sign marked “Carpark” identifies the spot. Check access information in advance, taking current farm and river conditions into account. The Lower Kokatahi Track to Crawford Junction is unmaintained and difficult to walk. Check current conditions for this track as well before setting out. In the wider region, the Kokatahi and Toaroha valleys are popular areas for tramping, or hiking.

More nature and outdoor activities in the Westland District

The wider Westland District destination offers more nature and outdoor activities, each based in a specific location. Around the settlement of Fox Glacier, the area provides access to a dynamic glacier landscape amid forest, reachable by car and on foot from the State Highway. The Fox Glacier Valley offers opportunities for hiking and cycling, with different views of the glacial valley.

The trails also offer a variety of experiences: Lake Matheson has an easy loop track. On calm, clear days, Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman are reflected in the still water. The historic Lake Gault Track leads through ancient silver beech forest and offers panoramic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook. The Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere Walk is a short rainforest walk with views of the Franz Josef Glacier valley. The Roberts Point Track is a more challenging day hike; from there, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Franz Josef Glacier and surrounding mountains.

In Ōkārito, the River Mouth Lagoon is the largest unmodified wetland on the West Coast and is home to a diverse birdlife. Kayak rentals and guided tours are available for observing birds and the landscape. More than 200 brown kiwi also live in Ōkārito; on night tours, visitors can observe them in their natural habitat. Check tour availability before your trip.

Whataroa serves as a base for guided nature tours during the summer months. New Zealand’s only breeding colony of kōtuku (white herons) is located on the banks of the Waitangiroto River. Tours to an exposed section of the Alpine Fault are also offered in Whataroa; check their availability before your trip. The Whataroa River offers a one-day whitewater experience through three spectacular gorges.

For a short walk with precise measurements, try the Hokitika Gorge Walk in the Westland District: from the car park, a 150-metre-long, wheelchair-accessible path leads one way to a viewing platform; the walk takes four minutes. Check access information before your visit, as it may change depending on the weather or track maintenance.

Discover more destinations: Hokitika, Fox Glacier, Franz Josef Glacier, Whataroa, Okarito, Kakapotahi, Haast, Ross

See the wider travel overview: Westland District.