South Island ▷ West Coast ▷
Karamea
End of the Road, in the Best Way
Karamea reminds me of Golden Bay - it's got that same feel of a place that rewards the people who actually bother to make the detour. Most travellers blow right past from Westport and never know what they've missed. But if you've got the time, this is exactly the kind of off-the-beaten-track side trip that ends up being the thing you talk about afterward.
The Oparara Arches Are the Main Event
My favourite thing in the whole area is the Oparara Arch walk, but fair warning - it's 14km of winding road to get there with a 2.8 metre height restriction. Not suitable for large motorhomes, and even in a smaller van you need to take it slow. If that doesn't put you off, you're probably exactly the type of person who'll love what's at the end of it.
If the Arches Are a No-Go
For those with bigger rigs or just after something a bit more chilled, the Kohaihai DOC Campsite at the very end of the road is a cracker. From there, the Nikau Walk and Scots Beach combo is a beaut - all those nikau palms make it feel like a wee tropical jaunt, and Scots Beach itself is a properly isolated gem about 45 minutes walk away. On the way in or out, Gentle Annie is one of those holiday parks that just has a wonderful family vibe about it - DIY pizza oven, natural maze, the works.
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Group ToursBig Rimu Track
Karamea
Box Canyon Cave walk
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