Activities around Murchison

Murchison is situated about halfway between The Abel Tasman and The West Coast, and provides an excellent stopping off point. But it also has many of it's own reasons to stop by. The magnificent countryside and the miles of rivers are all the inspiration you need to get out there doing things. If it isn't rafting, it's jet-boating. If it isn't mountain-biking, it's fishing. Local walks start from the door, and The Kahurangi and Nelson Lakes National Parks provide plenty of opportunity within a few minutes.

Many people visiting will already have plans, or be able to find things on the internet for themselves. This is just a small selection of ideas, resources and links to help.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) manages much of the land around Murchison, and this local guide shows local walks.  Slightly further afield, you can plan walks with the Lake Matiri & Plateau guide which is a part of the Kahurangi National Park.  Many guests also use us as a step to the Nelson Lakes National Park - DOC Day Walks Brochure here.  More in depth information on the Nelson Lakes National Park is on the DOC webpage.

THE OLD GHOST ROAD is a purpose-made long-distance mountain-biking route starting at Lyell, near Murchison, heading to Seddonville on the west coast.  The Ghost Road is attracting riders from all over NZ and abroad, and individuals and groups take advantage of our accommodation and catering as a part of their ride.  Other mountain biking options include the Nelson Lakes, Reefton and Deniston.

Bike touring in New Zealand is increasingly popular and Murchison has local byroads to help you avoid some of the main road traffic.  The Rainbow road links down to Hanmer Springs, and the Buller Gorge itself provides a fantastic run down to Westport and the coast.

Two local rafting companies operate on the Buller River, with Ultimate Descents office just across the road.  Also close are the office for the Natural Flames Experience, which runs guided walks to perpetually burning flames in the forest - only in Murchison, NZ.

NZs Longest Swingbridge is just 15 minutes out of town and is open daily- you have the option of coming back on the zip line too!  The bridge is also the startpoint for the Buller Canyon Jet, which provides a premium jet-boating experience.  The 40 minute trip gives you all the thrills of a jet boat ride, along with the discovery and enjoyment of the river with all its history including exploration, earthquakes and gold-mining.

For guests, we can help arrange any of these activities, and also loan you bikes to help you get around, and give you all the advice you need to help you enjoy your stay.