Westport
- Karamea
96 km (60 miles)
Approximately 1.25 hours
Road Conditions: State Highway/Arterial
Westport is known as a coal mining town, but it’s also a base for outdoor adventures. Visit the local coal mining museum, then strap on your walking shoes to investigate the seal colony. Black water rafting, jet boating, horse trekking and surf rafting are other opportunities for outdoor excitement.
The road north to Karamea passes historic Denniston and the ‘incline’, an engineering marvel built in 1879 to transport coal from the plateau down a steep braked railway. From the Denniston area, the road heads along the coast through delightful small townships with lovely beaches, cafes and galleries. At the Charming Creek Walkway you can take a very scenic hike along a disused railway, complete with tunnel. Crossing the Mokihinui River, the road runs inland through native forest beside the Radiant Range. Rejoining the coast at Little Whanganui, the final stretch follows the beaches to Karamea.
Karamea is at the southern end of the Heaphy Track, one of New Zealand’s nine Great Walks. This relaxing coastal town is adjacent to the Kahurangi National Park. From here you can follow trails along rivers, through native forest and natural limestone arches. A guided walk will let you discover a protected cave network. You can also kayak, mountain bike, fish, watch birds or simply relax on a deserted beach.
Scenic Highlights
Charming Creek walkway, Seddonville
Hike along a disused railway line through tunnels, over bridges and along deep gorges. Enjoy native forest, waterfalls and sweeping views.
Oparara basin
Kayak and hike through fascinating limestone formations and ancient native forests in the southwest corner of the Kahurangi National Park.
Cape Foulwind Seal Colony
Enjoy a close encounter with New Zealand fur seals in their natural habitat on the wild west coast of the South Island.
Activities
West Coast
Horse Treks (4),
Jet Boating (2),
Walking/Trekking (3)
Tour and Sightseeing
West Coast
Walking/Trekking (4)
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