Reefton
Reefton is a small town in the Buller District in the West Coast region, 78 km from Westport and 80 km from Greymouth. State Highway 7 passes through the southern part of the town, and State Highway 69 runs north to connect to State Highway 6.
Located among the spectacular Paparoa and Victoria ranges, the town lies alongside the wild Inangahua River and is surrounded by the Victoria Conservation Park which at 180,000 is New Zealand’s largest. The goldrush in the 1860s helped establish a rich heritage which is visible today in the restored heritage buildings. As well as being the first to have a public supply of electricity, the town was the first to switch on an electric street lighting system in the Southern Hemisphere. Oozing charm and character Reefton offers a range of activities and attractions that help make it an iconic destination.
Powerhouse river walk
A 40 minute loop walk starting at the Reefton i-SITE Visitor Centre to a swing bridge over the Inangahua River to the powerhouse that was New Zealand’s first public supply of electricity.
The Bearded Miners
Call and have a chat or cuppa with the bearded miners at a replica gold miner’s hut on the main street. The miners are in residence all year and welcome visitors in to learn how a miner lived in the 19th Century.
The great outdoors
You’re spoilt for choice in Reefton. Surrounded by New Zealand’s largest conservation park there is something for everyone. Walking, tramping, mountain biking, river rafting, trout fishing, and hunting opportunities are plentiful.
Gold panning
Pans can be hired from the i-SITE Visitor Centre or call into the miner’s hut where flakes of gold are ‘guaranteed’ to be found.
Art gallery
Two galleries have permanent exhibitions of work to view and commission enquiries are welcome. Distillery Explore a modern award-winning distillery at the forefront of spirit production.
Food and drink
Soak up the heritage vibe in one of the cafes located in heritage buildings, grab a hotel meal, or top up on supplies at the two supermarkets. Skate park If you are travelling with your board or skates you can’t go past one of, if not, the best skate park in the country.
More info
https://www.westcoast.co.nz/west-coast-regions/reefton-gold/
Buller District Council | Ph: 03 788 9111 | 6-8 Brougham Street, Westport - bullerdc.govt.nz
