Join us on an unforgettable road trip as we explore the stunning West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, driving from Nelson to the iconic Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Discover the best stops, activities, and insider tips for this must-do “drive from Nelson to Punakaiki”.
Exploring the Nelson Tasman Region
The Nelson Tasman region is located on the top end of New Zealand’s South Island and is home to the Abel Tasman National Park. Nelson, the largest city in the region, is a hub for those looking to explore the park and its surrounding areas. The region is known for its fruit orchards, hop fields, and stunning landscapes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Abel Tasman National Park
The Abel Tasman National Park is a popular destination for visitors to the Nelson Tasman region. It offers a range of activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. The park’s coastal trails provide breathtaking views of the surrounding area, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Ruby Bay and Mapua
Located between Nelson and the Abel Tasman National Park, Ruby Bay and Mapua offer a charming coastal experience. Visitors can explore local art galleries, enjoy fresh seafood, and take in the picturesque views of the Tasman Bay. These quaint seaside towns are the perfect base for exploring the surrounding region.
Nelson Lakes National Park
The Nelson Lakes National Park is an underrated gem in the region, offering pristine alpine landscapes, serene lakes, and a variety of walking trails. Visitors can take a water taxi to the end of the lake and hike back, providing a unique way to experience the park’s natural beauty.
Driving from Nelson to Murchison
The drive from Nelson to Murchison takes travelers through a diverse landscape, from fruit orchards to historic sites and stunning lookout points. Along the way, there are several noteworthy stops that offer insights into the region’s history and natural beauty.
Brightwater and Wakefield
As you travel south from Nelson, you’ll pass through Brightwater and Wakefield, known for their fruit orchards and hop fields. The area is famous for its hop production, with opportunities to visit local breweries and hop farms. Visitors can also explore the Lord Rutherford Memorial, dedicated to the achievements of Lord Ernest Rutherford, a renowned scientist born in the region.
Nelson Lakes National Park Detour
For those seeking a detour off the main route, the road to St Arnaud offers access to the Nelson Lakes National Park. This underrated location provides opportunities for hiking, water taxis, and stunning alpine scenery. The detour allows travelers to experience the natural beauty of the region before continuing their journey to the West Coast.
Kawatiri Historic Railway Walk and Buller River
As you approach Murchison, the Kawatiri Historic Railway Walk offers a glimpse into the area’s railway history. The walk showcases the region’s heritage and provides a scenic stop for stretching your legs. The drive along the Buller River provides picturesque views and leads travelers into the village of Murchison, where they can find amenities and a chance to rest before continuing their journey.
Discovering the Nelson Lakes National Park
Located along the Buller River, the Nelson Lakes National Park is a hidden gem offering pristine alpine landscapes, serene lakes, and a variety of walking trails. Visitors can take a water taxi to the end of the lake and hike back, providing a unique way to experience the park’s natural beauty.
Exploring the Park
The park is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The serene lakes and lush forests make it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape.
Activities and Attractions
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities in the park, including water taxis, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The area is also rich in history, with remnants of the region’s gold mining past still visible. The park is a perfect place for families to stop and enjoy a bit of adventure in a magical setting.
Stops Along the Buller River
As travelers continue along the Buller River, there are several noteworthy stops that offer insights into the region’s history and natural beauty. From the Buller Gorge Swing Bridge to the historic village of Lisle, the area is rich in attractions that cater to a variety of interests.
Buller Gorge Swing Bridge
The Buller Gorge Swing Bridge is an iconic attraction located on the main road along the left-hand side. It’s the longest swing bridge in the area, offering stunning views of the Buller River and the surrounding landscape. Families can enjoy a bit of adventure with ziplining and jet boating options available.
Old Village of Lisle
The historic village of Lisle marks the start of the Old Ghost Road, a hiking and cycling trail that showcases the area’s natural beauty and rich history. Visitors can explore the trail, which offers a unique way to experience the region’s alpine scenery and heritage.
Kilkenny Lookout
Kilkenny Lookout is a picturesque stop along the Buller River, offering a bend in the river with stunning views of the surrounding scenery. Travelers can take in the sights and breathe in the fresh air while experiencing the classic New Zealand road situation with a one-way road and a traffic light system.
Detour to Westport and Cape Foulwind
As you embark on your road trip from Nelson to Punakaiki, consider making a detour to Westport for a few important reasons. Firstly, Westport provides an excellent opportunity to stop for lunch or afternoon tea, as well as refuel your vehicle, which is essential as there are no petrol stations in Punakaiki. Additionally, taking a detour through Cape Foulwind is highly recommended, offering stunning scenery and unique attractions.
Exploring the Cape Foulwind Coastal Walk and Lighthouse
After refueling and enjoying a meal, make your way to Cape Foulwind Lighthouse, which may initially appear to be a detour, but is well worth the visit. The area boasts a number of captivating sites, including the opportunity to view a seal colony at Taronga Bay. The coastal walkway provides an incredible opportunity to witness fur seals in their natural habitat, along with panoramic views of the Tasman Sea and the opportunity to visit a lighthouse. This stunning walk is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
- Stop at Taronga Bay to view the seal colony
- Embark on the Cape Foulwind Coastal Walk for breathtaking scenery
- Pass by the Cape Foulwind Lighthouse for a unique coastal experience
Adventure Caving at Charleston Goldmine
Explore the rich history of the West Coast’s gold mining industry with a visit to Mitchell’s Gold Mine operation. Discover how miners used water tunnels and other innovative techniques to extract gold, providing an educational and fascinating experience for history enthusiasts and families alike.
Underworld Adventure
Experience the unique adventure of combining a glowworm cave tour with an underground caving tour at the Underworld Adventures site. Equipped with all the necessary gear, including helmets, wetsuits, and rubber tubes, visitors can explore the caves and float down the river on a half-day or full-day tour. The stunning glowworms hanging from the cave ceilings make this an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers.
Visiting the Ballroom Overhang at Fox River
Embark on a four-hour return trip to the ballroom overhang at Fox River, a hidden gem deep within the Paparoa National Park. The journey offers incredible scenery and stunning views, making it a worthwhile consideration for travelers exploring the West Coast. It’s important to be mindful of water levels, especially during heavy rain, as the region is known for its unpredictable weather.
Exploring the Paparoa National Park
The Paparoa National Park provides a picturesque setting for the ballroom overhang, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the West Coast. On a clear day, the park’s breathtaking scenery is hard to beat, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Exploring the Punakaiki Area
Upon arrival in Punakaiki, visitors will find a small village with around seventy permanent residents. There are several walks in the area, including the Porirari River track and the Truman track, located about five kilometers north of the village. For those with limited time, a recommended route includes traveling from the Buller River through Westport and Cape Foulwind. However, for a more in-depth exploration, spending two nights in the West Coast region between Greymouth and Punakaiki provides ample time to explore the area. This includes a detour through Reefton, a fascinating location with historic sites, local artisans, and a gin distillery. Afterward, continuing the journey towards the Cray River and the village of Greymouth offers further opportunities for exploration.
Alternate Route: Driving from Nelson via Reefton
For a more immersive experience of the West Coast, consider taking an alternate route from Nelson via Reefton. This route allows for a deeper exploration of Reefton, an intriguing destination with a rich history and unique attractions. Visitors can stop at a tea room bakery, explore the local gold mining history, and even visit a gin distillery, offering a glimpse into the region’s heritage and artisanal offerings. Continuing along State Highway seven towards the Cray River and Greymouth provides an opportunity to select accommodation along the coast, allowing for easy access to the Paparoa National Park and the Cape Foulwind area for a comprehensive exploration of the region.
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