Reefton

Nestled in the Buller District of the West Coast, Reefton sits alongside the wild Inangahua River and is framed by the spectacular Paparoa and Victoria Ranges.

Located 78 km from Westport and 80 km from Greymouth, the town is easily accessible via State Highway 7 and State Highway 69. Oozing charm and character, Reefton is a town where heritage, nature, and adventure come together.

A Town of Firsts
Reefton has a rich history dating back to the 1860s gold rush. It was the first town in New Zealand to have a public electricity supply and the first in the Southern Hemisphere to light its streets with electricity. This pioneering spirit is still visible today in the town’s beautifully restored heritage buildings, which now house cafés, galleries, and shops.

Reefton offers a unique mix of heritage, adventure, and local charm. Visitors can wander the Powerhouse River Walk, cross the swing bridge over the Inangahua River, and explore the site of New Zealand’s first public electricity supply, or step back in time at the Bearded Miners’ replica gold hut to learn about life during the 19th-century gold rush.

Try your hand at gold panning, stroll the streets to admire restored heritage buildings, and enjoy local art at the town’s galleries. Food and drink options include heritage cafés, hearty hotel meals, and Bassanos Pizza, famous for its authentic pizza oven imported from Italy, as well as the award-winning Reefton Distillery, offering a modern taste of the region’s craft spirits. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the surrounding Victoria Forest Park, which boasts walking, tramping, mountain biking, and trout fishing. Families can also enjoy one of the West Coast’s best skate parks.

Buller District Council | Ph: 03 788 9111 | 6-8 Brougham Street, Westport - bullerdc.govt.nz