Paparoa National Park

Towering granite cliffs and stacks of pancake rocks, dark tannin-stained rivers edged by virgin kahikatea forest, karst landscapes riddled with sinkholes, and surf crashing on to the western shore beaches give Paparoa a look that is almost subtropical with towering nikau palms and strappy flax bushes bending in the breeze.

The Paparoa National Park, which runs loosely along the Paparoa Range, is a long rugged chain of mountains running parallel to the coast. With craggy summits, serrated ridges, and cirques carved out of ancient granite and gneiss, it's a formidable environment. But its sheer cliffs, flood-prone rivers, dense temperate rain forest, and extensive cave systems spell out paradise for hikers. The major track entry points—Bullock Creek, Fox River, and Pororari River—open onto an otherworldly zone of jungle green, striking nikau palms, rushing streams, and sweeping coastal views. There are several day hikes, canoeing and horse treks, and entry-level caving experiences.

BEST TIME TO GO

Any time of year is good here as the park is far enough north to be free of snow, except at the highest points in mid-winter. Summer is much warmer, although there are more people around, but in winter the weather can be clear and crisp, with less rainfall.

Fun Fact

The two- to three-day Inland Pack Track was built back in 1867 for gold miners as a safer alternative to hazarding the walk down the coast with its dangerous river mouth crossings, steep cliffs, and crashing surf.