blurry placeholderRafting in Murchison

Murchison

Kawatiri (Buller) River

Explore Murchison's rivers, trails and outdoor adventures

Welcome to Murchison, New Zealand's white-water capital, where more than 20 white-water runs are within 20 minutes of town. Surrounded by mountains and rivers, this small Nelson Tasman town is a playground for rafting, kayaking, fishing and cycling. But there's more to discover here than a good dose of adrenaline.

blurry placeholderWalk the heights of New Zealand's longest swing bridge near Murchison.
Walk the heights of New Zealand's longest swing bridge near Murchison.
blurry placeholderGold panning at Buller Gorge Swing Bridge Adventure & Heritage Park.
Gold panning at Buller Gorge Swing Bridge Adventure & Heritage Park.

Discover Murchison's gold rush history and remarkable landscapes

Set on the Four Corners Plain, Murchison is a small town with some big stories to tell. Gold prospectors arrived in the 1800s, and you can still try your luck panning for gold in the Kawatiri / Buller River.

In 1929, a powerful earthquake reshaped the surrounding landscape, leaving its mark on the land and the community. Today, Murchison's history, resilient locals and spectacular natural surroundings give this adventurous little town a character all its own.

blurry placeholderThe Old Ghost Road delivers a spectacular backcountry adventure all year round.
The Old Ghost Road delivers a spectacular backcountry adventure all year round.
blurry placeholderThe Heaphy Track forms a memorable part of the epic Kahurangi 500 bikepacking journey.
The Heaphy Track forms a memorable part of the epic Kahurangi 500 bikepacking journey.

Explore the Old Ghost Road and cycling trails near Murchison

Big rides start around Murchison. Take on the Old Ghost Road, a remote mountain biking adventure through rugged backcountry, or tackle the Kahurangi 500 for a multi-day journey through the upper South Island's spectacular landscapes.

These are adventures worth planning for, with challenging terrain and plenty of wild country along the way. And after a big day on the trails, Murchison is a welcome place to refuel, swap stories and put your feet up.

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blurry placeholderTasman Great Taste Trail at Kaiteretere by Aimee Jules credit NelsonTasmanNZ (2)

Must-dos in Nelson Tasman

The must-dos that come with sunshine, stories and good people.
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