Reefton: Mining history and trails along the Inangahua River

Reefton combines a compact historic centre with traces of gold and quartz mining in the surrounding area. Discover the town’s history on a self-guided walk and at its preserved buildings. A trail across the Inangahua River and a longer mountain bike circuit offer different ways to enjoy the outdoors as part of your visit.

Mining history in the townscape

Most of the surviving buildings from Reefton’s gold-mining past are in a compact area where the three main roads leading into town meet. The Reefton Historic Area is listed as a historic place under the Historic Places Act 1993. In the last three decades of the 19th century, Reefton was a major mining centre on the West Coast. Reefton School of Mines was established in 1886 as a centre for mining education in the Inangahua District.

Restored buildings along Broadway house galleries, souvenir shops, cafés, pubs and second-hand shops. Here, historic architecture meets the varied uses of the town centre—a good reason to look beyond the façades as you stroll.

Experience history on foot

A self-guided history walk takes you through Reefton and also includes the Bottled Lightning Power House on the other side of the Inangahua River. Reefton Visitor Centre features Quartzopolis, a recreation of an underground mining experience. From there, a 40-minute circuit crosses the river to the crumbling remains of a power station that supplied the country’s first streetlights with electricity in 1888. Check current track conditions before setting out.

Excursions of varying lengths

About 30 km south of Reefton, in Victoria Forest Park, are the remains of Big River Quartz Mine and its associated settlement sites, a significant local attraction. A popular mountain bike circuit starts at Blacks Point on the Murray Creek Track. It follows the Waitahu Track to Gannons Road and takes about five hours. Compared with the 40-minute circuit in town, this is a considerably longer outing. Check current track conditions before setting out.

At Slab Hut Creek, south of Reefton, there is a publicly accessible area for recreational gold panning; no permit is required. Check current access information before visiting.

Plan your visit and accommodation

The historic, restored Harold Bros General Store in the centre is home to the Reefton Distilling Co. outlet. Tours and tastings are offered there. The tours, which must be booked in advance, provide an insight into the production of Moonlight Creek Whisky and Little Biddy Gin. Check current arrangements before your trip.

The road layout is also useful for finding your way when arriving: State Highway 69 runs north through town and connects Reefton with State Highway 6; State Highway 7 runs along the southern edge of town. If you’re looking for a hotel, you can plan around whether the compact town centre, historic sites or several-hour excursions will be the focus of your trip.

Discover more destinations: Karangarua, Kumara, Denniston, Seddonville and Karamea.

Back to the regional travel guide: West Coast.