Discover Westport

Westport combines walking and cycling trails with river and coastal scenery, as well as historical and artistic themes. The various trails, the town’s history and local art give your stay different points of focus. As you plan your trip, you can consider which of these sides of Westport interests you most.

Walking and cycling trails

The Kawatiri Coastal Trail is a historically themed cycling and walking trail between Westport and Charleston. Its first section starts in Westport near the Kawatiri, or Buller, River. It passes through native forest and wetlands, over a long boardwalk and by significant Māori archaeological sites. This section brings landscape and history together.

PŪWAHA, a section of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail, runs for 5.0 km from Westport to Carters Beach and is rated Grade 2 throughout. Check the official trail status before your trip.

Another option is the Kawatiri River Trail, a walking and cycling trail along the Buller-Kawatiri River that connects Westport with nearby North Beach. The Millenium Track is a section of this trail: it is 1 km long and takes 12 to 15 minutes. For planning, you can compare the two sections described here: PŪWAHA is 5.0 km; the Millenium Track is 1 km and takes 12 to 15 minutes.

Westport Domain also offers trails through a riverside landscape. From Menzies Street, easy gravel paths wind through the remnants of lowland podocarp forest along the Buller River.

History and art in Westport

The clock tower of the Municipal Chambers is Westport’s most distinctive landmark and a feature of Palmerston Street, the town’s main thoroughfare. The building is privately owned and not open to the public. For another look at the town’s history, Historical Westport offers a walking tour with information about the town’s history, historic buildings and historic street views.

Palm Street Gallery is a community gallery featuring works by local and regional artists. These include paintings, wood and bone carvings, driftwood sculptures, flax work and pounamu jewellery. As the gallery is run by volunteers, its opening hours may vary; check them before your visit.

The Kawatiri experience presents the history of Kawatiri, spanning the past, present and future. Check before visiting whether the experience is currently available.

Planning your arrival and stay

Westport can be reached via the Great Coast Road, Lewis Pass or State Highway 6. Check current road conditions before setting out. The different trail distances can help with planning: PŪWAHA is listed as 5.0 km, while the Millenium Track is 1 km and takes 12 to 15 minutes. This can help you choose activities to suit the time you have and your interests before looking for a hotel for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Little Wanganui, Maruia, Granity, Punakaiki, Charleston

For the overview of the wider region: Buller District.