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Big River

Big River is a testimony to man's relentless search for gold. It is reached either via walking, mountain biking or with a 4WD along an old dray road. You can easily spend a full day exploring the remnants of the old township, taking in the landscape.

Take a day trip into Big River via mountain bike, 4WD or tramping. Stay in the DOC hut and make a weekend of it by continuing through to Waiuta and exploring the history of the mining town remains.

Big River offers lots to explore, 4WD drive in then tramp into the many gullies offering big hunting opportunities or search for old mining memorabilia.

For the thrill seeking mountain bikers; Big River to Waiuta offers a grade 4, 55km track. This track offers an exciting adventure, rewarding those brave enough to tackle it with the interesting abandoned mining township of Waiuta.

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Explore Reefton Further

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.