Murchison

Murchison is the white water capital of New Zealand. There are many rivers, the Gowan, Mangles, Matiri, Glenroy, Matakitaki, Maruia and the Buller River are all within easy access from Murchison. If its rafting, canoeing or kayaking that floats your boat then this is your watery heaven. The rivers have grades of difficulty ranging from Class 2 to 4 white-water, so theyre not for the inexperienced or faint hearted.

In 1929, Murchison was almost totally destroyed by an earthquake and was damaged again in 1968 by another earthquakethis history can be observed in the local Murchison Museum. There are 850 people who reside in the town with basic shops, accommodation and cafes.

Other popular activities catered for in the area are jet boating, gold panning & fishing. The well worn but excellent mountain bike trails see some keen action from beginners to experienced riders. Hire bikes are also available.