Buller Gorge Ariki Falls Walk

Out and back

If you time your visit right, you might see professional rafters or kayakers navigating this stretch. It is considered one of the most challenging commercially rafted sections of the river, and watching a raft plunge through the "rollers" of Ariki Falls from the safety of the shore is a real treat.

Beyond the falls, the area is a geological goldmine—literally and figuratively. The White’s Creek Faultline is a must-see. This was the epicentre of the massive 1929 Murchison earthquake (a magnitude 7.8 event). Standing here, you can see the physical evidence of the earth’s power, where the ground was uplifted several metres in a matter of seconds.

For those interested in New Zealand's colonial history, keep an eye out for the alluvial gold mining relics. Along the tracks, you can still see sections of hand-stacked stone tailings, left behind by hardy miners who once combed these riverbanks in search of fortune. These moss-covered stones are a quiet testament to the grit of the early pioneers.

Getting There

The Buller Gorge Ariki Falls Walk is located approximately 14 kilometres west of Murchison on State Highway 6. It’s an easy and scenic drive, whether you are coming from Nelson or heading up from the West Coast glaciers.

Look for the signs for the Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure Park. There is ample free parking available on-site, along with clean toilet facilities and a lovely picnic area if you’ve packed a lunch.

Please note that because the walk is accessed through the Adventure Park, there is a fee to cross the swingbridge and access the forest tracks. As of late 2023, the cost is $12.50 for adults and $5 for children. While some hikers are used to free DOC tracks, the maintenance of the bridge and the historical preservation of the site make this a well-worth-it investment for a unique afternoon out.

Wildlife Spotting

The forest on the far side of the Buller River is a sanctuary for native birdlife. Because the area is managed and the bush is so dense, the bird chorus here can be quite spectacular.

The most common companion on your walk will be the Pīwakawaka (Fantail). These friendly little birds are known to follow hikers, flitting about to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps. You’ll also likely hear the melodic, bell-like chime of the Korimako (Bellbird) and the deep, resonant "whoof-whoof" of the Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon) flying overhead.

Keep a sharp eye on the tree trunks for the tiny Rifleman (Tītitipounamu), New Zealand’s smallest bird, or the inquisitive South Island Robin (Toutouwai), which might hop right down to the path to inspect your boots. If you look up into the canopy, you’ll often spot the Tui with its distinctive white throat tuft, or the Grey Warbler (Riroriro), whose long, trilling song is the quintessential sound of the New Zealand bush.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Buller Gorge is a destination for all seasons, but each offers a different vibe:

• Summer: The forest provides a cool, shaded escape from the heat. The river is usually a stunning turquoise blue, and the conditions are perfect for a picnic by the water.
• Autumn: The light becomes more golden, and the crisp mornings make the one-hour walk feel incredibly refreshing.
• Winter: The gorge often traps a moody, atmospheric mist. While it's colder, the forest feels incredibly lush and the river often runs higher and more powerfully after winter rains.
• Spring: This is the best time for bird enthusiasts, as the forest is alive with nesting activity and new growth.

• Footwear: While the track is easy, it is a bush walk. Sturdy sneakers or light hiking boots are recommended, especially if it has rained recently.
• Sandflies: This is the West Coast! Sandflies can be persistent near the water, so bring a bit of insect repellent to ensure your stop at the Ariki Falls lookout is comfortable.
• Sun & Rain: Even under the canopy, the NZ sun is strong, so wear sunscreen. Conversely, always carry a light rain jacket—the weather in the gorge can change in minutes.
• Timing: To avoid the peak midday tour groups, try to start your walk either early in the morning (around 9:00 am) or later in the afternoon. The low-angled light hitting the river through the gorge is spectacular at these times.

Local & Regional Context

The Buller River, or Kawatiri, is one of New Zealand’s longest undammed rivers, and its cultural significance to Māori is profound. It served as a vital highway for those travelling between the east and west coasts in search of pounamu (greenstone).

In more recent history, the 1929 Murchison earthquake fundamentally changed this landscape. The sheer force required to lift the land at the White’s Creek faultline is hard to comprehend until you see it in person. The Buller Gorge was almost completely blocked by landslides during the quake, and the resilience of the local community in the aftermath is a major part of the local lore.

The Adventure Park itself does a great job of blending this natural history with a bit of "Kiwi ingenuity." By maintaining the swingbridge and the heritage trails, they allow visitors to step back in time to the gold rush era while standing right on top of a major geological boundary.

After the Walk

After you’ve crossed back over the swingbridge (which is just as fun the second time!), you’ll likely have worked up an appetite.

Head 15 minutes back down the road to Murchison, a charming town known as the "whitewater capital" of New Zealand. For a classic Kiwi experience, stop at The Lazy Steer. It’s a local favourite with a relaxed atmosphere, offering hearty burgers and great coffee—perfect for refuelling after a walk.

If you’re after something a bit more "café style," the Beechwood Café is another excellent choice. They have a fantastic selection of cabinet food (the pies and slices are top-tier) and plenty of outdoor seating where you can sit back and reflect on your trek through the mighty Buller Gorge.

This walk is a perfect slice of the West Coast: a bit of adventure, a lot of nature, and a deep sense of history. Whether you're a local looking for a weekend stroll or a tourist passing through, the Ariki Falls Walk is an experience that stays with you long after you've left the gorge.