Paparoa Track

The Paparoa Track is New Zealand's newest Great Walk, a 55 km tramping and mountain biking trail that traverses the dramatic limestone landscape of Paparoa National Park on the West Coast. Opened in 2020, it offers a unique blend of lush rainforest, limestone gorges, and panoramic coastal views, with the added thrill of crossing the iconic Pororari River via a suspension bridge. This track is a must-do for adventurous hikers and mountain bikers seeking an authentic backcountry experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Pororari River Gorge – Walk through towering limestone cliffs and lush native forest along the river, with opportunities to spot rare birds like the great spotted kiwi.
• Moonlight Tops – The highest point on the track, offering sweeping views of the Tasman Sea and the Southern Alps on a clear day.
• Punakaiki Pancake Rocks – While not on the track itself, combine your trip with a visit to these famous limestone formations and blowholes just 15 minutes away.
• Mountain Biking – The track is one of only two Great Walks open to mountain bikers, with a thrilling descent through the Croesus Track section.
• Historic Mining Relics – Remnants of the area's gold mining past, including old huts and tunnels, can be seen along the route.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most hikers complete the Paparoa Track in 2–3 days, staying overnight in Department of Conservation huts (Pororari Hut and Moonlight Tops Hut). For mountain bikers, the full track can be ridden in a long day (6–8 hours) or split into two days for a more relaxed pace. Plan to spend at least one extra day exploring Punakaiki and the nearby coastal attractions.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Punakaiki – Base yourself here before or after the track; visit the Pancake Rocks and explore the Pororari River by kayak.
• Greymouth – A 45-minute drive south, offering supplies and the start of the TranzAlpine train journey.
• Westport – An hour north, with the charming Cape Foulwind seal colony and the Buller Gorge swingbridge.
• Paparo National Park – Extend your adventure with shorter walks like the Truman Track or Pororari River Track.

Please check official sources for current details.