Rugged Coastlines, Wildlife, and History Collide
Set against the wild Tasman Sea, Westport is a town bursting with rugged beauty and gold-rush charm. Once a coal and gold mining centre, its story is kept alive at the Coaltown Museum, where you’ll find everything from vintage locomotives to tales of pioneering hardship. Around the town, heritage trails and old mining settlements give a window into a past carved out of rock and resilience.
Not far from the town centre, the Cape Foulwind Walkway offers dramatic sea cliffs, a picturesque lighthouse, and a thriving fur seal colony. A short, well-formed track leads to breathtaking lookouts over the pounding surf and beyond to the horizon. Time it for sunset and you’ll be rewarded with truly memorable views.
Underworld Adventures
Underground Wonders and River Adventures
For something completely different, Underworld Adventures near Charleston offers a journey into the hidden world beneath the rainforest. You’ll float through the Nile River Glowworm Caves on underground streams, surrounded by dramatic limestone formations and twinkling glow worms above. These guided tours combine adventure with geology and a touch of magic, making them ideal for families or anyone seeking a surreal subterranean experience.
Above ground, the Buller River invites thrill-seekers to try jet boating or white-water rafting, while the nearby Old Ghost Road draws mountain bikers and hikers keen to explore remote alpine landscapes. And just inland, the Denniston Plateau stands as a windswept, haunting reminder of New Zealand’s coal-mining past—complete with dramatic views and relics of the old incline railway.
Top Things to Do in Westport New Zealand
- Walk the Cape Foulwind Walkway to seals and lighthouse
- Explore the Coaltown Museum’s mining heritage
- Discover glow worms and limestone in the Nile River Caves
- Join a guided Underworld Adventure caving or tubing tour
- Take on jet boating or white-water rafting on the Buller River
- Hike or cycle part of the Old Ghost Road trail
- Visit the historic Denniston Plateau for epic views
- Enjoy local food, crafts, and coffee in Westport town
Westport hosts a number of events and festivals throughout the year, including the Buller Gorge Marathon, the Westport Arts Festival, and the Buller A&P Show. Check the town's calendar of events for up-to-date information.
Westport offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Be sure to try the fresh seafood at the famous Westport Whitebait Festival, held annually in September.
As for accommodation, there are plenty of options ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious eco-retreats.
Westport can be easily accessed by car or bus from major cities such as Christchurch and Nelson. The nearest airport is the Westport Airport, which offers daily flights to and from Wellington.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, Westport is the ultimate destination for those looking to explore the wild beauty of New Zealand's West Coast. Book your trip today and start your journey of discovery!
