Paparoa Track

New Zealand's third Great Walk, the Paparoa Track, is a stunning three-day journey through the wild landscapes of the Paparoa Range on the West Coast of the South Island. This 55-kilometer tramp offers a unique blend of alpine tops, limestone karst, and lush rainforest, all while following the footsteps of early Māori and European explorers. The track was originally built as a memorial to the 29 men lost in the Pike River Mine disaster, adding a poignant layer to the experience. With well-maintained huts and a moderate grade, it's an accessible backcountry adventure that showcases the raw beauty of New Zealand's natural heritage.

Highlights & What to See

• Pororari River Gorge: Walk through a dramatic limestone canyon with towering cliffs and lush native bush, complete with a swingbridge crossing.
• Pike Ridge: The highest point of the track, offering panoramic views of the Paparoa Range, Tasman Sea, and on clear days, Aoraki/Mount Cook.
• Limestone Karst Landscape: Marvel at unusual rock formations, caves, and sinkholes that dot the track, especially around the Moonlight Tops.
• Paparoa National Park: The entire track lies within this park, home to rare wildlife like the great spotted kiwi and the blue duck.
• Historic Mining Sites: Pass remnants of the region's gold and coal mining past, including old huts and machinery.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most walkers complete the track in three days and two nights, walking about 5–6 hours per day. The track is typically walked from north to south, starting at the Pororari River car park and finishing at the Punakaiki River car park. It's possible to do a shorter two-day version by using the Moonlight Tops Hut as a base, but three days allows for a more relaxed pace to fully appreciate the scenery. Book huts and campsites well in advance during peak season (October to April).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Punakaiki: Famous for the Pancake Rocks and blowholes, just a short drive from the track's southern end – a must-see geological wonder.
• Paparoa National Park: Explore other short walks in the park, such as the Truman Track or Pororari River Track, for more coastal and forest experiences.
• Greymouth: The largest town on the West Coast, offering supplies, accommodation, and the start of the TranzAlpine train journey.
• Westland Tai Poutini National Park: Head south to see glaciers like Franz Josef and Fox, about a 2-hour drive away.
• Buller Gorge: A scenic area with white-water rafting, jet boating, and the famous Buller Gorge Swingbridge.

Please check official sources for current details.