Reefton
- Greymouth
79 km (49 miles)
Approximately 1 hour
Road Conditions: Arterial
Large gold-bearing quartz reefs, discovered in the 1860s, gave Reefton its name. The town has retained much of its historic charm and the heritage walk will ensure you discover the highlights. In 1888, Reefton declared its can-do pioneering spirit by becoming the first town in the southern hemisphere with electric street lighting. Some of New Zealand’s finest native beech forest can be enjoyed in the 209,000 hectare Victoria Conservation Park, which covers the mountains surrounding Reefton.
About 30 kilometres south of Reefton, leave the highway at Hukarere for a 15km side road to the historic gold mining town of Waiuta, beside what was the richest mine in the area. Explore the ghost town’s streets and a handful of remaining buildings before walking to nearby mine and battery sites. Returning to the highway and continuing south, the road follows the braided Grey River valley.
Greymouth has a long gold mining history. It’s the largest town on the west coast and is known for its awesome seascapes. The local brewery runs tours or you can catch up with west coast history at the museum. White water rafting, sea kayaking and gold panning are other things to do.
Scenic Highlights
Big River Track, Reefton
Hike, bike or four-wheel drive your way through native beech forests to the historic Big River gold mine.
Punakaiki pancake rocks and blowholes
Gaze in wonder at nature's artistry as columns of water shoot skyward from rocks that resemble giant stacks of pancakes.
Activities
West Coast
Caving (2),
Rafting (4)
Tour and Sightseeing
West Coast
Caving (1)
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