Overlooking the mouth of the Buller River, Westport is a former gold mining town that flourished with the discovery of coal. It’s home to a fascinating coal mining museum and is near the spectacular Buller Gorge and the caves of Paparoa National Park.

Things to do

Learn about Westport’s mining heritage at the Coaltown Museum, which includes a replica mine and old artefacts that detail the discovery of “black gold”. Read about the daily struggles faced by miners as they extracted coal from the mountains, then marvel at the 20-ton brake drum and “Q” Wagon once used on the famous Denniston Incline.

After visiting the museum, wander through the Denniston Coalmining Historic Area, which sprawls across a rocky plateau in the Papahaua Ranges. Take in the magnificent views of the coastal plains as you explore the relics of this old mining town, with display panels bringing its fascinating history to life.

Explore the subterranean world of the Paparoa National Park on a guided tour of the Glowworm Cave or during an exhilarating Adventure Caving experience. Ride the Nile River Rainforest Train between towering limestone cliffs and primeval forest before venturing underground on a thrilling rafting adventure.

Enjoy a scenic drive through the spectacular Buller Gorge, a deep canyon carved over thousands of years by the mighty Buller River. Ride a zip-line high above the river below, then traverse New Zealand’s longest swing bridge at the Buller Gorge Adventure and Heritage Park.

Getting around

Westport Airport is a 10-minute drive from the centre of town and has regular flights from Wellington and Westport around 4.5 hours’ drive from Christchurch. Westport is small enough to explore on foot, but having your own vehicle is best for accessing the surrounding sights.