A West Coast Adventure
The Kawatiri Coastal Trail is a cycling and walking heritage trail connecting the Buller District towns of Westport and Charleston.
ABOUT THE TRAIL
Often called ‘New Zealand’s longest short ride’, thanks to the stunning mix of coastal views, native bush and ever-changing scenery packed into just 40km.
Diverse landscapes combine to create a memorable journey across eight sections, with multiple access points allowing users to complete the trail in full or in parts. Each turn reveals ever changing coastline and dramatic natural scenery.
The breathtaking route weaves through an enviable mix of rugged cliffs, crashing seas, native wildlife and lush forest. Along the way, users encounter suspension bridges, boardwalks, pristine wetlands, shelters and interpretive signage sharing remarkable stories and local secrets. With views stretching from mountains to sea, the trail passes through highlights including Carters Beach, Cape Foulwind, Tauranga Bay, Ōkari, Tōtara and Charleston.
Trail
Sections
Kilometres
of Trail
With some short Grade 3 areas
Trail Sections
The trail is Grade 2 with some short Grade 3 areas. Click on the sections below for more details.
PŪWAHA
Section 1
5.0 km
Westport - Carters Beach
100% Grade 2
OPEN
KAWAU
Section 2
8.0 km
Carters Beach - Cape Foulwind
95% Grade 2 – 5% Grade 3
OPEN
Omau
Section 3
3.5 km
50% Grade 2 – 50% Grade 3
OPEN
Tauranga
Section 4
5.5 km
Tauranga Bay - Ōkari Lagoon
100% Grade 2
OPEN
Ōkari
Section 5
6.5 km
Ōkari Lagoon - Virgin Flat Road
70% Grade 2 – 30% Grade 3
OPEN
Tōtara
Section 6
5 km
80% Grade 2 – 20% Grade 3
OPEN
Rahui
Section 7
5.5 km
100% Grade 2
OPEN
Waitakere
Section 8
1 km
Nile River – Charleston
90% Grade 2 – 10% Grade 3
OPEN
The area’s unique geology, diverse ecology, extensive Māori and European history and vast seascapes make this one of New Zealand’s finest day or multi-day rides.
Following a dedicated cycle path between Westport and Charleston, the awe-inspiring heritage trail offers riders an invigorating experience along a truly spectacular coastline. Along a wide, smooth path through podocarp forest, nikau palms and expansive beaches, riders journey back in time to the days of Māori Pounamu gatherers and the glittering gold rush era.
The trail can be ridden in either direction, with the option to slow down the pace and split into shorter rides, taking in major highlights along the way.
Tales from the Trail
Kawatiri Double Take
So Good I Had to Do It Twice By Kevin Searle Having ridden most of New Zealand’s cycle trails, I’m always on the lookout for a new adventure. While away skiing in Canada this March, I got a call from a friend — the Kawatiri Coastal Trail had just opened.Jet-lagged but...
Roots of the Tōtara
Nigel Williams doesn’t seek the spotlight. On a golden afternoon by the Tōtara River, before the trail opens, he sits with arms folded; a reluctant subject for a story about himself. Behind us, the farmhouse where his mother, Melva Dalkie, grew up stands quietly, a...
Trail Opening
The Kawatiri Coastal Trail team is thrilled to announce the official opening of the full trail from Westport to Charleston will be held on March 22nd. Join us for day of celebration at Charleston, and get out and experience all the trail has to offer. Official...