Buller Gorge Bushline Walk

Out and back

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undeniable star of this walk is the "Big Five" of the New Zealand forest. This area is home to an incredible array of ancient podocarps. As you walk, you’ll encounter the Kahikatea (white pine), which is New Zealand’s tallest native tree, often found in swampy lowland areas like this. Look up to see the stately Rimu (red pine) with its distinctive weeping foliage, and the sturdy Matai (black pine). You’ll also spot the Miro (brown pine), famous for its bright red berries that are a favourite snack for native birds, and the resilient Totara, known for its thick, cork-like bark. Standing amongst these giants, some of which have been growing for centuries, gives you a profound sense of the region's ancient heritage.

Another essential stop is the dedicated viewing platform overlooking the White’s Creek peninsula. From here, you get a bird’s-eye view of the river’s power and the unique geological formation of the land. It’s the perfect spot for a photo, capturing the contrast between the dark green forest and the grey-blue hues of the Buller River.

Perhaps the most intriguing highlight is the White’s Creek Faultline. For fans of geology or history, this is a sacred site. This was the epicentre of the devastating 1929 Murchison earthquake. At this very spot, the earth didn't just shake; it transformed. You can see evidence of where the ground was thrust upwards by over 4.5 metres in a matter of seconds. It’s a humbling reminder of the tectonic forces that continue to shape the "Shaky Isles."

Getting There

Finding the trailhead is straightforward, as it’s located right on one of the main tourist routes between Nelson/Blenheim and the West Coast. The walk is based at the Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure Park, located at 413 Upper Buller Gorge Road, Murchison.

If you are coming from Murchison, it’s a quick 15-minute drive west. If you’re coming from Westport, it’s about a 50-minute drive east through the gorge. There is ample parking available directly at the Adventure Park, with plenty of room for campervans and buses. Note that while the park itself is a commercial operation with an entry fee for the bridge and activities, the facilities are top-notch, including clean toilets and a small shop where you can grab a cold drink or a souvenir.

Wildlife Spotting

The Buller Gorge is a haven for native birdlife, and the Bushline Walk provides a quiet gallery to observe them. Because the track is relatively short and easy, you can stand still for a few minutes and let the birds come to you.

• Tūī: You’ll hear them before you see them. Listen for their complex melodies—a mix of bell-like notes, clicks, and grunts. They are year-round residents and are particularly active in the upper canopy.
• Korimako (Bellbird): Often mistaken for the Tūī, the Korimako has a pure, flute-like song. They love the nectar from the native flowering trees along the bushline.
• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly little birds are almost guaranteed to join you on your walk. They follow hikers to snack on the insects stirred up by your footsteps. Their erratic, aerobatic flight is a joy to watch.
• Toutouwai (South Island Robin): Keep an eye on the ground. These bold, charcoaled-coloured birds are very inquisitive and might hop right up to your boots to see what you’re up to.
• Ngirungiru (Tomtit): Smaller and more elusive than the Robin, the male Ngirungiru is easily identified by his black head and white breast. They are often seen darting between the lower branches of the Miro and Matai trees.

Pro Tip: Early morning or late afternoon are the best times for birdwatching. The "dawn chorus" in the Buller Gorge is something truly special if you can get there when the gates first open.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Buller Gorge Bushline Walk is a true all-seasons destination. Because it is sheltered by a thick forest canopy, it remains a great option even when the West Coast weather is being "atmospheric" (which is a local way of saying it’s raining).

• Spring: This is when the forest is at its most vibrant. New growth is sprouting, and the birdlife is incredibly vocal as they begin their nesting season.
• Summer: The deep shade of the Kahikatea and Rimu trees provides a welcome escape from the heat. It’s the perfect time to pair the walk with a jet boat ride on the river.
• Autumn: The air is crisp, and the light filtering through the trees is golden and soft—perfect for photography.
• Winter: While the West Coast can be chilly, the evergreen nature of the New Zealand bush means the trail stays lush and green year-round. Just be sure to wear a good fleece or woollen layer.

• Sturdy walking shoes: While it’s an easy track, the ground can be slippery after rain.
• Insect repellent: The West Coast is famous for its sandflies (namu). A bit of repellent on your ankles and wrists will make your walk much more comfortable.
• Water: Even though it’s a short walk, the humidity in the bush can be high.
• Rain jacket: This is the Buller Gorge—showers can sweep through at any moment!

Please note that dogs are not allowed on this track or within the Adventure Park to protect the local bird populations and maintain the integrity of the conservation area.

Local & Regional Context

The Buller River, or Kawatiri, has long been a significant site for Māori. It was a traditional route for those travelling to the West Coast in search of pounamu (greenstone). The name Kawatiri is often translated as "deep and swift," which perfectly describes the powerful turquoise torrent you see from the viewing platforms.

In colonial times, the gorge became a hub for gold mining and coal transport, and the rugged road was carved out of the rock with immense manual labour. The Bushline Walk allows you to see the landscape much as those early pioneers would have found it—dense, intimidating, and incredibly beautiful.

The 1929 Murchison earthquake remains the defining historical event for the region. Registering at 7.8 on the Richter scale, it was felt across New Zealand. Seeing the physical displacement at White’s Creek gives you a tangible connection to that history. The recovery of the forest over the last century is a testament to the resilience of the New Zealand environment.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your walk and perhaps braved the return trip across the swingbridge, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite.

The Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure Park has a small on-site kiosk for quick snacks, but for a full meal, head into the nearby town of Murchison.

• The Commercial Hotel: A classic Kiwi pub with a great atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for a hearty "pub grub" meal and a cold pint while you swap stories with other travellers.
• Beechwood Café: If you’re looking for a great coffee and a slice of homemade cake or a gourmet pie, this is the spot. They have a lovely outdoor seating area which is great for soaking up the sun.
• The Hampden Hotel: Another local favourite that offers a warm welcome and generous portions, ideal for refueling after a day of exploring the gorge.

Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a tourist ticking off the "must-sees" of the South Island, the Buller Gorge Bushline Walk is a rewarding, low-effort, high-reward experience. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe the purest air on earth, and stand in the shadow of giants.