Murchison Things to Do – Explore Nature, Rivers, and Gold Rush Trails

From Jet Boats to Historic Walks, Murchison is the Heart of West Coast Adventure

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Each summer Murchison is a mecca for visitors seeking the great outdoors – fishing, rafting, walking, white water kayaking, jet boats, horse treks, mountain biking and gold panning. There is a wide range of accommodation available ranging from backpackers, campgrounds to luxury lodges in spectacular settings.

Located in the top half of New Zealand’s South Island, Murchison is a small town that holds an undiscovered outdoor paradise for its visitors. With rural charm, natural beauty, and truly unique outdoor adventures, it offers something special for everyone.

The Murchison district is steeped in history from the days of gold miners and early settlers. Many buildings are still in their original condition from the late 1800s and early 1900s. Murchison and the nearby village of Lyell were once among the largest gold mining settlements in the South Island. Murchison was also the epicentre of the 1929 Murchison Earthquake (also known as the Buller Earthquake), which you can learn more about at the Murchison District Museum.

In contrast to the town’s old-world charm, families can enjoy a leisurely day rafting the rivers, trying their hand at gold panning, ziplining across the Buller River, walking the longest swing bridge in the Southern Hemisphere, experiencing the Buller River by jet boat, or hiking to amazing vantage points to witness the rare beauty of the ‘Natural Flames’.

You can spend a day, weekend, or week here, filling your time with river-based activities and land-based adventures. Land enthusiasts can play nine holes of golf, enjoy short walks, and experience the excellent mountain biking trail called the “Old Ghost Road,” which runs from Lyell to the West Coast.

Let Murchison leave you with the most memorable adventures

of your South Island Road Trip.

Things to Do in Murchison

Outdoor Adventures, History & Natural Wonders

Jet Boating & Whitewater Rafting on the Buller River

Murchison is best known for its exhilarating water-based activities, especially on the Buller River. Experience the thrill of a jet boat ride through narrow gorges, or tackle Grade 3–4 rapids on a whitewater rafting trip. Local operators offer both adrenaline-pumping experiences and family-friendly options, making it a top destination for river adventures in New Zealand.

Nature Walks & Scenic Trails

The region offers a number of accessible walking tracks that showcase its natural beauty. Popular short walks include:

• Skyline Walk – a steady climb to panoramic views of the town

• Natural Flames Walk – a guided 4-hour forest hike to a naturally burning underground gas flame

• Matiri Valley Track – a gentle riverside trail into Kahurangi National Park

Whether you’re after a quick stroll or a unique guided experience, there’s a walk for every ability.

Ride the Legendary Old Ghost Road

Beginning near Murchison, the Old Ghost Road is one of New Zealand’s most iconic multi-day mountain biking trails. Spanning 85km through remote backcountry, it weaves through historic mining towns, alpine ridgelines, and native forest. Whether you complete the full trail or just ride part of it, it’s an unforgettable way to explore the region’s rugged landscape.

Visit the Buller Gorge Swingbridge & Zipline

Just a short drive from town, the Buller Gorge Swingbridge is the longest swingbridge in the Southern Hemisphere, spanning 110 metres over the Buller River. Once across, you can:

• Zipline back across the gorge

• Go gold panning by the river

• Explore short bush walks to waterfalls and historic gold mining sites

This is a must-do for families and adventure lovers alike.

Fishing & Gold Panning

Murchison is a haven for fly fishing, with crystal-clear rivers full of brown and rainbow trout. For a more hands-on connection to history, try gold panning, just like the early settlers did. Some operators provide gear and guidance, or you can try your luck in a nearby stream.

Murchison’s Rich History – Museum & Gold Towns

Step back in time at the Murchison District Museum, where you can learn about the 1929 earthquake and the town’s early European settlers. Nearby Lyell, once a thriving gold mining town, is now a DOC-managed historic site and campsite with walking trails and interpretation panels revealing its past.

Why Visit Murchison?

Murchison may be a small town, but it delivers big on outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and historical intrigue. It’s the perfect stopover between Nelson, Westport, and the West Coast—yet feels like a destination all its own. Come for a day, stay for a week, and discover why Murchison is one of New Zealand’s most underrated gems.

Where to Stay in Murchison

You’ll find accommodation options for all budgets and travel styles, including:

• Luxury lodges nestled in native bush

• Riverside campgrounds for tents and campervans

• Backpacker hostels and motels right in town

Whether you’re planning a short stay or a week-long adventure, Murchison offers a peaceful and scenic base for exploration.

Murchison offers some great accommodation to suit all budgets “Click Here”

Frequently Asked Questions – Murchison, New Zealand

1. What are the best outdoor activities to do in Murchison?

Top activities include jet boating and whitewater rafting on the Buller River, walking to the Natural Flames, ziplining at the Buller Gorge Swingbridge, and cycling the Old Ghost Road.

2. Where can I go jet boating or rafting in Murchison?

You can experience thrilling jet boat rides and rafting tours on the Buller River. Local operators offer both scenic trips and exciting grade 3–4 whitewater adventures.

3. What is the Old Ghost Road?

The Old Ghost Road is an 85km backcountry mountain biking and hiking trail starting near Murchison. It follows historic gold mining routes through remote valleys and alpine ridges.

4. Can families with children enjoy Murchison’s attractions?

Yes! Families can enjoy easy walks, gold panning, visiting the Murchison Museum, or crossing the Buller Gorge Swingbridge and ziplining. There are also gentle rafting options suitable for kids.

5. Where can I learn about Murchison’s gold mining and earthquake history?

Visit the Murchison District Museum to learn about the 1929 Murchison Earthquake and the region’s gold rush past. You can also explore historic sites at Lyell, a former gold town.

6. What kind of accommodation is available in Murchison?

Murchison offers a range of accommodation including campgrounds, hostels, motels, and luxury eco-lodges. Many are close to nature trails and rivers.