Murchison

Surrounded by high mountains and roaring rivers, this small town is in some very big country. With the Nelson Lakes National Park to the west, the Kahurangi National Park to the north, and the Matakitaki, Buller, Matiri, and Mangles rivers all converging on its doorstep, Murchison has gained the reputation as New Zealand's "white-water capital." There are 13 rivers within 20 km (12½ mi) of town. Fly-fishers, kayakers, hikers, and rafting junkies turn up every year to enjoy the sport. Although most operators now accept credit cards, there is no ATM in the town; so make sure you have some cash on you.

Murchison residents still consider their landmark event "the earthquake," a major quake that hit in June 1929. The epicenter was nearby in the Buller Gorge, and the quake drastically altered the landscape.