Kumara

Kumara is a tiny gold-mining town on the West Coast, just a short detour off State Highway 6 between Greymouth and Hokitika. Its wild, rainforested setting and rich history make it a fascinating stop for anyone exploring the rugged coast. The town is named after the sweet potato that Māori cultivated, but its true claim to fame is the gold rush of the 1860s, when thousands of miners flocked here. Today, Kumara feels like a living museum, with historic buildings, a famously long pub, and easy access to the stunning natural attractions of the region.

Highlights & What to See

• Kumara Goldfields Heritage Trail – Follow the historic water races and see the remains of the mining era, including the impressive Goldsborough dredge.
• Kumara Hotel – Claimed to be New Zealand's longest pub, this iconic watering hole serves up cold beers and hearty pub grub. Pop in for a drink and a chat with locals.
• Lake Kaniere – A stunningly clear, forest-fringed lake just a short drive away. Perfect for swimming, kayaking, or a peaceful picnic.
• Hokitika Gorge – Famous for its surreal turquoise water, this is a must-photograph spot. A short walk leads to a swingbridge with breathtaking views.
• Shantytown Heritage Park – A living-history gold-mining village where you can pan for gold, ride a steam train, and step back into the 1860s.

Suggested Time to Spend

Kumara itself can be explored in an hour or two – enough time to walk the heritage trail and grab a drink at the hotel. However, the surrounding attractions (Lake Kaniere, Hokitika Gorge, Shantytown) are worth at least half a day. For a relaxed visit, plan a morning or afternoon here as part of a day trip between Greymouth and Hokitika.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hokitika – Just 20 minutes south, this coastal town is known for its pounamu (greenstone) carving, wild beaches, and the annual Wildfoods Festival.
• Greymouth – The West Coast's largest town, 25 minutes north, with the famous Monteith's Brewery and the start of the TranzAlpine scenic train journey.
• Franz Josef Glacier – About 1.5 hours south, this iconic glacier offers heli-hikes, ice climbing, and stunning valley walks.
• Punakaiki & the Pancake Rocks – An hour north, these limestone formations and blowholes are a classic West Coast stop.

Please check official sources for current details.