Getting Here Reefton is centrally located at the hub of state highway access into the Coast, north from Murchison, Nelson and Blenheim and east from Christchurch.

Our History The town of Reefton was established in 1870 and was immediately a prosperous place. In August 1888, it became the first place in New Zealand to have a public supply of electricity, even before London or New York.

Events Whether you're in Reefton for a day, overnight, a week or even more, there's always something exciting happening here. Find out more about our events and other things to do during your stay.

Reefton, West Coast- A glittering past and a shining future

The Town of Light

The small town of Reefton is a place for everyone to enjoy - be it for a day or two, a week or a place to call home. Reefton's gold rush in the 1860's helped to establish a rich heritage. As well as being the first to have a public supply of electricity, the town was the first to switch on an electric street lighting system in the Southern Hemisphere.

Many of the heritage buildings have been restored and offer an insight to the past as well as providing a range of accommodation, places to eat and shop. Teamed with all the charm and character that Reefton has to offer, you will find a range of unique activities and attractions that help to make Reefton an iconic destination.

Top 6 picks for Reefton

1 Bottled Lightning Powerhouse Walk

1Bottled Lightning Powerhouse Walk

Bottled Lightning Powerhouse Walk

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2 The Bearded Miners

2The Bearded Miners

The Bearded Miners

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3 Black's Point

3Black's Point

Black's Point

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4 Big River

4Big River

Big River

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5 Murray Creek

5Murray Creek

Murray Creek is a stunning 5 hour mountain bike ride

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6 Kirwans Reward

6Kirwans Reward

Kirwans Reward

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Where is stunning Reefton?

Reefton is the West Coasts only inland town located among the spectacular Paparoa and Victoria ranges. The town lies alongside the wild Inangahua River and is surrounded by the Victoria Conservation Park which at 180,000ha is New Zealand's largest.

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Reefton was the first place in New Zealand and the southern hemisphere to have public supply of electricity in 1888, even before London or New York.

Polish investor David Ziman (gentleman wearing the cap) is known as the savior of Reefton. Booming times in Reefton in the first decade of the 20th century were largely due to his energy and foresight.

Reefton's walking and mountain biking tracks will take you up and close to the old mines and mining relics

Latest Events in Reefton

Nov 23

Skatepark Competition

Skate, Scooter, BMX, Music, Demo's, Giveaway's, Age Categories, From 1pm - 3pm

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Nov 29 - Dec 01

Tusk Tine & Trout Competition

Entry forms available at the i-Site, Weigh in at the Reefton Fire Brigade

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Dec 01 - Feb 29

Reefton Saturday Market

Every Saturday 9am-1pm. $10 per table, Sign up at i-Site Music to be scheduled, buskers welcome, Marquees, Tables, Chairs to be provided Advertising in regional papers, locally clarion

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Dec 30

Reefton Trots

Reefton Trots held at the Local Reefton Race course every year. Held on the 30th December 2019

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Jan 08

Reefton Gallops

Reefton Gallops held every year at the Reefton Race course This year held on the 8th January 2020

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Feb 01

Reefton A & P Show

The Inangahua A & P and Sport Association is a committee of volunteers that help with the A & P show every year. It is held on the first Saturday in February at the Reefton Race course

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Feb 08

Buller Gorge Marathon

NZ's most scenic marathon, starts 8th February Start time 8.30am Half, Full and walk $60.00 Relay teams $100.00 Get in quick, Accommodation available In Reefton

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Feb 22