Overview

Westport, nestled on the mouth of the Buller River in New Zealand’s West Coast region, is a rugged gateway to coastal wilderness, historic coal‑mining heritage and epic outdoor adventures.

Established in 1861 and the oldest European settlement on the West Coast, Westport combines dramatic landscapes with rich history—from seal‑lined headlands and swing‑bridge crossings to immersive mining museums and hearty café culture.

  • Gateway to Cape Foulwind, Tauranga Bay seal colony and Kawatiri Coastal Trail.
  • Outdoor thrills: jet‑boating, swing‑bridge, caving, mountain‑biking and more.
  • Historic charm with Art Deco landmarks and engaging mining museums.

Food & Drink

Westport’s cafés and eateries bring hearty local flavour—perfect after coastal walks or museum visits.

  • Main St and Palmerston St cafés offer fresh coffee, sandwiches and West Coast hospitality.
  • Local fish & chips are popular pick‑up takeaway by the estuary.
  • Riverside pubs serve craft beers—ideal for relaxing after a day exploring Buller Gorge.

Adventure & Wilderness

From high‑adrenaline kayaking to walking rugged shorelines, Westport delivers unforgettable outdoor experiences year‑round.

  • Cape Foulwind Walkway – coastal headland trail to lighthouse and Tauranga Bay seal colony.
  • Buller Gorge Swingbridge – cross NZ’s longest swing‑bridge and enjoy zip‑lining and jet‑boating nearby.
  • Charming Creek & Old Ghost Road – mountain‑bike and walking tracks through beech forest and former railway formations.
  • Underground rafting & caving – explore Glowworm Caves near Charleston.
  • Kayaking & jet‑boating – paddle or ride the Buller River and its estuary.

Must‑See Highlights

Key attractions blending natural beauty and cultural insights for all travellers.

  • Coaltown Museum: comprehensive coal‑mining displays, simulated underground mine, and historic machinery.
  • Cape Foulwind Lighthouse: accessible via 3.4 km coastal walk, with dramatic seascapes and seal‑spotting opportunities.
  • Tauranga Bay Seal Colony: observe NZ fur‑seals on rocky shores from raised boardwalks.
  • Buller Gorge Swingbridge: iconic 110 m bridge with scenic views and optional zip‑lining.

Shopping

Westport’s small‑town charm is on show through local artisans and vintage finds.

  • Palmerston St boutique shops sell handmade jewellery, gifts and homewares.
  • Souvenir outlets stock West Coast art, pounamu / greenstone and local preserves.

Photography

Capture the wild beauty of Westport from coast to gorge.

  • Cape Foulwind cliffs at sunset – dramatic rock formations in golden light.
  • Seal colony boardwalk – candid wildlife shots without disturbance.
  • Buller Gorge Swingbridge – sweeping river valley and bridge perspective images.

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring–Summer (Sept–Mar): ideal for coastal walks, wildlife viewing and river-based adventure.
  • Autumn (Apr–May): fewer crowds, lush forest colours, and stable walking weather.
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): misty gorge views, roaring sea at Cape Foulwind and a cosy café experience.

Explore Nearby

  • Punakaiki & Pancake Rocks – dramatic coastal limestone formations, ~45 minutes south.
  • Charleston Glowworm Caves – guided cave tours in historic gold‑rush setting, ~30 km north.
  • Karamea & Oparara Basin – lush rainforest tracks and natural arches, accessed via scenic drive north.
Name Section Address/Location Geo Coordinates
Coaltown Museum Must-See Highlights 123 Palmerston St, Westport -41.7536, 171.6014
Cape Foulwind Lighthouse Must-See Highlights Cape Foulwind Walkway, Westport -41.7375, 171.4825