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Kawatiri Coastal Trail Tōtara River to Charleston

The morning air beside the Tōtara River always feels cool and fresh, the kind of air that fills your lungs and clears your mind. We love to start this section of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail early, when the light filters through the trees and the mist still drifts above the water. The river runs gently here, weaving its way through stands of tōtara and rimu before curving toward the sea. It is a peaceful beginning, one that invites you to slow down and notice the little details around you.As we ...

Kawatiri Coastal Trail Ōkari Lagoon to Tōtara River

Every time we begin this section of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail, we feel as though we are entering a quieter world. The air around Ōkari Lagoon is soft and still, touched only by the distant cry of a heron or the faint movement of reeds in the breeze. It is the perfect place to start the day slowly, with a deep breath and a moment to listen before setting off.Leaving the lagoon, the trail follows the edge of the wetlands for a while before curving inland. The path winds gently through coastal sc...

Kawatiri Coastal Trail Cape Foulwind to Ōkari Lagoon

This is one of our favourite stretches of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail. It begins at the dramatic cliffs of Cape Foulwind, where the wind often carries the sound of the sea long before you can see the water. Each time we set out from here, we feel that mix of excitement and calm that only the West Coast can bring. The light seems sharper, the colours deeper, and the sea stretches endlessly into the horizon.We always like to pause at the Cape before we start riding. The lookout above the seal colon...

Kawatiri Coastal Trail, Westport to Cape Foulwind

We never tire of this stretch of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail. It begins where the Buller River finally exhales into the sea, a quiet place where the tide glides through native reeds and the morning light reflects off calm water. The air here feels different, soft, salt kissed, alive. Setting out from Westport, the trail follows the old river path and soon we are surrounded by the gentle rhythm of wetland birds. Their calls echo across the boardwalks as if welcoming us into their world.We often su...

Kawatiri Coastal Trail - Charleston

For guests exploring the region from Birds Ferry Lodge, the Charleston end of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail offers a perfect combination of West Coast nature, local heritage, and a rewarding ride or walk. The trail is designed to be family friendly and Grade 2 in difficulty, making it accessible yet engaging.Charleston, often tied into the Waitakere or Nile River to Charleston section, is where the trail meets the coastline and the historic gold rush town. During the 1860s, Charleston and the surro...

Reefton - Heritage and Charm

An easy hour’s drive inland from Birds Ferry Lodge lies Reefton, a delightful town steeped in gold-rush history and small-town warmth. Known as The Town of Light, the first in the Southern Hemisphere to have electric street lighting, Reefton still shines with heritage charm.Stroll along Broadway where beautifully restored buildings house cafés, galleries and local boutiques. Step into the Bearded Miners’ Hut for stories from the past, or visit the Reefton Powerhouse to learn how this small ...

Denniston Plateau

Perched 600 metres above sea level, the Denniston Plateau is a haunting reminder of the West Coast’s mining past. Once home to hundreds of coal miners and their families, it’s now an open-air museum scattered with relics and stories.A short drive from Waimangaroa leads up to The Hill, where interpretive trails wind past rusting machinery, stone foundations and the famous Denniston Incline, once hailed as the eighth wonder of the world for its steep, gravity-powered descent. The views from th...

Charleston and the Nile River

About twenty minutes south of Westport lies Charleston, a place rich in gold-rush history and natural wonders. Today it is best known for its limestone landscape and the spectacular Nile River Caves, explored with Underworld Adventures. Visitors can take a short rainforest train ride, float through caves on gentle underground streams and witness glow-worm displays that rival the famous Waitomo caves without the crowds.For those who prefer to stay above ground, the short walks around the Nile Riv...

The Tauranga Bay Seal Colony

Few wildlife experiences in New Zealand are as accessible as the Tauranga Bay Seal Colony, just fifteen minutes from Westport. From the car park, a gentle track hugs the cliffs and leads to viewing platforms overlooking the rocks below, where dozens of New Zealand fur seals bask in the sun.Between October and March, tiny seal pups can often be seen playing in the tidal pools while adults laze nearby, unbothered by onlookers. The sound of waves, the salt air and the sheer drama of the cliffs mak...

Walking the Kawatiri Coastal Trail

You don’t need a bike to enjoy the Kawatiri Coastal Trail. Many of its most beautiful stretches are perfect for walkers who love gentle terrain, coastal views and easy access to nature. The trail begins just outside Westport and meanders through wetlands, bush and open coastline towards Cape Foulwind.One of the loveliest sections follows the estuary, where you can pause to read interpretation panels telling stories of local Māori history, early settlers and native wildlife. This is a peaceful...

Exploring the Kawatiri Coastal Trail

The Kawatiri Coastal Trail is quickly becoming one of the most scenic cycling experiences on the northern West Coast. Stretching between Westport, Carters Beach, Cape Foulwind and eventually to Charleston, this purpose-built route follows a mix of coastal bush, wetlands and wild ocean views.The surface is wide and well-graded, ideal for e-bikes or leisurely riders who want to enjoy the journey rather than rush through it. Cyclists can pedal past the Orowaiti Estuary where herons and oystercatche...

Un-missable Northern West Coast Highlights

Unmissable Places to Discover on the Northern West CoastMany visitors rush through the northern West Coast, on their way to or from Punakaiki, but those who pause to explore soon discover a region rich in quiet beauty, local history and unforgettable nature. From limestone canyons and glow-worm caves to gentle cycling trails and hidden beaches, this part of the coast rewards those who slow down and stay a little longer.Here are some of our favourite unmissable places to see during your stay at B...

Top 5 Most Popular Guest Activities at Birds Ferry Lodge

Top 5 Most Popular Guest Activities at Birds Ferry LodgeWhen guests arrive at Birds Ferry Lodge, they often come seeking a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and rest,  and that’s exactly what they find. Nestled on the stunning West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, our lodge is the perfect base for exploring this wild and wonderful region. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a week, here are the five most-loved activities our guests rave about.1. Tauranga Bay Cliff Top Walk, ...

Top 5 Hidden Places to Visit on the West Coast of the South Island

The West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island is wild, rugged, and full of soul. Beyond the glaciers and Punakaiki’s Pancake Rocks, there are tucked-away treasures that few visitors ever find. These secret spots are where time slows down, nature takes over, and you feel like you’ve stepped into a forgotten world. If you’re drawn to quiet beauty, local stories, and places that feel truly off-grid, this list is for you.1. ŌkāritoThis tiny coastal village is a haven for bird lovers, photog...

Top 5 Off-the-Beaten-Path Places to Visit in the South Island

The South Island of New Zealand is a land of breathtaking beauty but while Queenstown and Milford Sound get the spotlight, there’s a quieter magic waiting for those who prefer secluded charm, hidden gems, and genuine local experiences. If you’re a traveller who values boutique comfort, nature’s solitude, and the feeling of discovering something truly special, this guide is for you.1. Wharariki Beach, Golden BayTucked away near the northwestern tip of the South Island, Wharariki Beach is na...

Staying Connected: A Visitor's Guide to SIM Cards in New Zealand

If you're planning a trip to the beautiful land of Aotearoa (New Zealand), one essential part of your travel checklist should be staying connected. Whether you need GPS directions, want to share your adventures on social media, or stay in touch with loved ones, a local SIM card is a practical and cost-effective solution. Here's everything you need to know about getting a SIM card in New Zealand.Why Get a Local SIM Card?Using your home carrier abroad can lead to steep roaming charges. A local SIM...

Top Tips For Your Holiday In New Zealand

Two Weeks in Paradise: My South Island EscapeJulia who stayed with us earlier in the year shared these jewels of in information from her holiday in New Zealand.I’ve just returned from what might be the most incredible two-week holiday of my life and I’m still buzzing with the memories. The South Island of New Zealand is everything they say it is and more. Think wild coastlines, towering mountains, turquoise lakes and tiny pockets of absolute luxury tucked away in nature. One of those special...

Tauranga Bay, Seal Colony and Clifftop Walk, New Zealand

If you’re looking for one of the most scenic short walks on the West Coast — with the added bonus of wildlife viewing,  Tauranga Bay is a must-visit during your stay at Bird’s Ferry Lodge.Just a short drive from the Lodge, Tauranga Bay offers spectacular coastal scenery, a thriving New Zealand fur seal colony, and an easy clifftop walkway leading to the Cape Foulwind Lighthouse.The Tauranga Bay Seal ColonyThe seal colony is one of the most accessible wildlife experiences on the West C...

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, Nature’s Masterpiece on the West CoastThe West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island is home to many natural wonders , wild beaches, lush rainforests, and dramatic landscapes shaped by time and weather. One of the most iconic stops along the coast is the famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, a must-see for visitors exploring this special part of the country.What Are the Pancake Rocks?The Pancake Rocks are a fascinating geological formation located in Paparoa National Park, j...

The Kawatiri Coastal Trail Officially Opens

The Kawatiri Coastal Trail Officially Opens: A New West Coast Adventure BeginsThis past weekend marked an exciting milestone for the West Coast of New Zealand, with the official opening of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail—a breathtaking new cycle and walking trail that weaves its way through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Buller region.The trail, now fully open to the public, offers a unique and accessible way to experience the rugged coastline, native bush, and rich history of the area...

Truman Track in Autumn West Coast New Zealand

Autumn walks on the Truman Track on the West Coast brings a special kind of magic to the Truman Track. Just north of Punakaiki, this short but spectacular walk offers one of the most immersive coastal forest experiences in the region. The track is an easy stroll, but every step leads deeper into a lush world shaped by time, weather, and the wild energy of the Tasman Sea.The forest here is alive with towering native trees that have stood for hundreds of years. Some of them are so massive and anci...

Pororari River Trail Punakaiki West Coast New Zealand

The Pororari River Trail is one of the most scenic walks on New Zealand’s West Coast, offering an unforgettable journey through lush native rainforest, towering limestone cliffs, and the tranquil waters of the Pororari River. Located in the heart of Paparoa National Park, this trail is a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of Punakaiki.What Makes the Pororari River Trail Special?This trail follows the picturesque Poro...

Truman Track, Punakaiki West Coast New Zealand

If you're exploring the West Coast of New Zealand, the Truman Track in Punakaiki is a must-visit. This short yet breathtaking walk takes you through lush native forest before opening up to a dramatic coastline where you’ll find stunning cliffs, sea caves, and a secluded beach. It’s a perfect spot to experience the raw beauty of the West Coast without the crowds.What Makes the Truman Track Special?Unlike the famous Pancake Rocks, which attract large numbers of visitors, the Truman Track offer...

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, West Coast New Zealand

If you’re planning a visit to the West Coast of New Zealand, one natural attraction that should be at the top of your list is the iconic Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Located within the stunning Paparoa National Park, this geological marvel offers a unique glimpse into nature’s artistry, where limestone formations resemble stacked pancakes and powerful ocean swells create spectacular blowholes.What Makes Punakaiki Pancake Rocks Special?The Pancake Rocks were formed over 30 million y...

The West Coast New Zealand's Lesser Known Attractions

New Zealand’s West Coast is famous for its dramatic landscapes, towering mountains, lush rainforests, and rugged coastline. While iconic spots like the Franz Josef Glacier and Punakaiki Pancake Rocks draw the crowds, those who venture beyond the well-trodden paths will discover a treasure trove of lesser-known attractions.For guests looking to experience the wild, untouched beauty of the West Coast while avoiding the hustle of major tourist hotspots, we’ve curated a list of hidden gems that ...