Best Things to Do in Murchison

Best things to do in Murchison

Welcome to Murchison, New Zealand's white-water capital, where rafting, jet boating, fly fishing and mountain biking are all part of the fun. Take on the rapids, discover a waterfall born from an earthquake, or slow things down with forest walks and a little local history. There's plenty to explore in this adventurous corner of Nelson Tasman.

Unwind among native forest at Maruia River Retreat

After all that adventure, a little downtime sounds pretty good. Around 30 minutes south of Murchison, Maruia River Retreat is a luxury nature and wellness escape set across 500 acres of private forest and riverside landscapes. Settle into a private villa, soak in the forest hot tub, enjoy yoga or a guided nature walk, and savour thoughtfully prepared food. With the river nearby and native beech forest all around, it's a lovely place to slow the pace.

Visit Maruia Falls near Murchison

You'll probably hear Maruia Falls before you see it. Just 23km south of Murchison, this powerful waterfall was created when the 1929 Murchison earthquake changed the course of the Maruia River. A short, easy walk leads to a viewpoint overlooking the rushing water. It's a fascinating glimpse into the forces that have shaped this landscape, and a worthwhile stop on the road south.

Jet boat through gorge

Hold on tight. Buller Canyon Jet takes you racing along the Kawatiri / Buller River, weaving through pink granite canyons, tackling rapids and throwing in a few thrilling 360-degree spins. Between the action, take in waterfalls, native beech forest and the rugged scenery of the gorge. It's a pretty memorable way to see the river.

Go white-water rafting on Murchison's wild rivers

There's a reason Murchison is known as New Zealand's white-water capital. With rivers flowing in from every direction, it's a favourite spot for paddlers of all abilities. Join local experts Ultimate Descents for a guided rafting trip on the Kawatiri / Buller River, from family-friendly Grade 2 rapids to more adventurous Grade 3 white water. Expect pink granite canyons, clear river pools and plenty of splashes along the way.

Ride the Old Ghost Road Great Ride near Murchison

Follow in the footsteps of gold miners on the Old Ghost Road, an 85km backcountry mountain biking and tramping trail through the mountains and valleys of the upper South Island. Starting near Lyell, the trail climbs through native forest to open tussock tops, with sweeping views and historic mining relics along the way. It's a challenging multi-day adventure for experienced riders, with remote huts and spectacular scenery making every kilometre count. Plan ahead, check trail conditions and come ready for a proper ride.

Prefer a guide or keen to heli-drop into the action? Cycle Nelson can take care of the details, so you can focus on the ride.

Explore Murchison's gold rush and earthquake history

There's plenty of history tucked into this little town. Start at the Murchison District Museum to discover stories of the 19th-century gold rush, early settlers and the powerful 1929 earthquake that reshaped the surrounding landscape. Then head to Buller Gorge Adventure & Heritage Park to try your hand at gold panning. You might not strike it rich, but you'll come away with a better sense of the people and events that shaped Murchison.

Discover Murchison’s natural forest flames

Flames flickering straight from the forest floor? You don't see that every day. Join the Natural Flames Experience for a guided journey into Murchison's backcountry, starting with a 4WD ride through farmland before walking beneath towering beech trees and moss-covered branches. The reward is a remarkable natural phenomenon, where gas escaping from the ground fuels small, persistent flames. And yes, there's even tea and pancakes cooked over the flames. It's one of Murchison's more unusual adventures.

Go fly fishing in Murchison’s wild rivers

Clear rivers, wild brown trout and mountain scenery that makes it easy to lose track of time. Murchison is a favourite among fly fishers, with the Kawatiri / Buller River and tributaries such as the Owen, Mangles, Gowan, Matiri and Matakitaki offering plenty of water to explore. Bring your own gear or head out with a local fishing guide who knows the rivers and their changing conditions. A little patience helps, but the scenery is a pretty good consolation if the fish aren't biting.

Cross New Zealand's longest swingbridge

Got a head for heights? Step onto the 110-metre Buller Gorge Swingbridge and take in the Kawatiri (Buller) River flowing beneath your feet. At Buller Gorge Adventure & Heritage Park, you can also explore native bush walks, discover gold-mining history and try your luck at gold panning. For an extra thrill, take the 160-metre Comet Line ride back across the river. It's an easy stop to turn into a few hours of adventure.