Murchison

Kawatiri (Buller) River

Explore Murchison, New Zealand’s official white water capital

Welcome to New Zealand’s White Water Capital, where more than 20 white-water runs lie within 20 minutes of Murchison. Come for wild rivers, brilliant fishing and outdoor adventures, and stay for the stories behind this small town and its remarkable landscape.

Maruia Falls near Murchison.

Packrafting beginners course with NZ Kayak School.

There’s more to Murchison than outdoor adventure

Set on the Four Corners Plain and surrounded by mountains and rivers, the town has been shaped by gold, geology and generations of resilient locals.

The 19th-century gold rush brought prospectors to the area, and you can still try your luck panning for gold in the Kawatiri (Buller) River. Then, in 1929, a powerful earthquake dramatically reshaped the surrounding landscape and left another lasting chapter in Murchison’s story.

The Old Ghost Road delivers a spectacular backcountry adventure all year round.

The Heaphy Track forms a memorable part of the epic Kahurangi 500 bikepacking journey.

Murchison is the gateway to two legendary cycling adventures

Murchison makes a handy base for two of the region’s big cycling adventures. Take on the remote and spectacular Old Ghost Road, or set out on the Kahurangi 500 for a multi-day journey through some of the upper South Island’s wildest landscapes. Come prepared for a proper adventure, then return to Murchison for a well-earned feed and a comfortable bed.

In and around Murchison

Find things to do and places to stay in Murchison.

27 results

Reconnect with Nature - Maruia River Retreat

The Reconnect with Nature stay is a solo or couple retreat. Includes your private villa accommodation, daily breakfast and dinners, yoga classes, forest bathing and use of the facilities with plenty of quiet time to rest.

NZ$1000 - NZ$1650

Bronze Partner