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Charleston (or various access points)
40 km
10 hours
363 metres
If you’re looking for a slice of the West Coast that balances rugged wilderness with smooth, accessible paths, you’ve hit the jackpot with the Kawatiri Coastal Trail. Stretching 40 kilometres between the historic township of Westport and the charming village of Charleston, this trail is more than just a walk; it’s a journey through the very soul of the Buller District.
Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend leg-stretcher or a visitor wanting to soak up that famous West Coast "wild," this trail delivers in spades. It’s officially a Grade 2 trail, which means it’s a breeze for cyclists and a moderate, rewarding challenge for walkers. Pack your camera, grab a sturdy pair of shoes, and let’s dive into why this needs to be on your Kiwi bucket list.
The terrain is predominantly wide, smooth, and well-graded, making it a fantastic option for families and those who prefer a solid footing. However, don’t let the "easy" cycling grade fool you—if you’re tackling the whole 40km on foot, it’s a serious 10-hour undertaking. With an elevation gain of 363 metres, there are some undulating sections, tighter switchbacks, and gentle climbs that will definitely get the heart rate up, particularly around the headlands.
The beauty of this trail lies in its versatility. Because there are multiple access points, you don’t have to commit to the full ten hours. You can pick a section, like the coastal stretch near Cape Foulwind, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon stroll. The trail feels "wild" but never lonely; interpretive signs line the way, sharing secrets of the land, and the sound of the crashing surf is a constant companion. It’s a trail that invites you to slow down, breathe in the salt air, and appreciate the scale of the Paparoa Mountain Range towering in the distance.
The Kawatiri Coastal Trail has multiple access points with parking available in both Westport and Charleston, as well as at various points along the trail such as Carters Beach, Cape Foulwind, the Seal Colony car park, Tauranga Bay, the Ōkari section (just north of Virgin Flat Road), and Constant Bay Charleston. [5, 9, 11] Parking is generally safe, but secure parking is not provided, so visitors should ensure valuables are kept out of sight. [5] Note that parking is currently not permitted at the trailhead on Virgin Flat Road. [15] The Buller Bridge trail carpark in Westport may also have temporary closures. [10]
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Gallirallus australis
Flightless rail known for bold, inquisitive behaviour. Found mainly in the South Island and some offshore islands.
Best time: Year-round
Anthornis melanura
Endemic songbird with bell-like calls. Males are olive-green with a purple head sheen; females are browner with a narrow white-yellow stripe across the cheek.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
0m away
Nestled at the trailhead in Charleston, this cafe offers barista-made coffee, West Coast Pie Company pies, and a range of sweet and savoury treats. It features a wrap-around deck and rooftop viewing platform with stunning sea and mountain views, making it an ideal spot for hikers to relax. [5, 8, 9]
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Point to point
Parking Tip: Parking is generally safe at these designated spots, but as with any trailhead in New Zealand, please don't leave valuables on display. Note that parking is currently not permitted at the trailhead on Virgin Flat Road, so stick to the main hubs.
Later, in the 1860s, the area was transformed by the gold rush. Charleston, which is now a quiet, scenic spot, was once a bustling town of 30,000 people with over 80 hotels! Walking the trail today, it’s hard to imagine the noise and hustle of the gold fields, but the trail does an excellent job of preserving that history through its signage and the preservation of historic sites.
The trail also highlights the unique pākihi ecosystem—wet, peat-like lands that are home to specialised plants that have adapted to the acidic, low-nutrient soil. It’s a landscape you won't see in many other parts of the country.
The Kawatiri Coastal Trail is a magnificent addition to the New Zealand trail network. Whether you’re there for the history, the wildlife, or just the fresh sea air, it’s an experience that stays with you long after the mud has been washed off your boots.
Best time: Year-round
Rhipidura fuliginosa
Small insectivorous bird with distinctive fan-shaped tail. Friendly and curious, often following walkers through the bush.
Best time: Year-round
Apteryx haastii
New Zealand's largest kiwi species, the roroa is nocturnal and, while rarely seen, its distinctive call can sometimes be heard during twilight walks in the Bealey Valley.
Best time: Year-round
Todiramphus sanctus
A vibrantly coloured bird renowned for its precision diving to catch fish, also eats insects and small lizards.
Best time: Year-round
Eudyptula minor
These are the world's smallest penguins, known for their unique slate-blue feathers that help them camouflage in the ocean.
Best time: Year-round
Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae
Endemic New Zealand honeyeater with distinctive white throat tuft and iridescent plumage. Known for its complex and beautiful song.
Best time: Year-round
5km away
Located approximately 5km north of Charleston on the coastal highway, Jack's offers delicious pizzas in a quirky atmosphere with German house music. It has a bar and charming outdoor gardens, appealing to hikers looking for a unique post-hike meal and drinks. [4, 10, 11, 12]