Welcome to Reefton New Zealand
Heritage, hospitality, & hoards of gold.
Reefton is a vibrant country town with a huge heritage that’s enjoying a new day in the sun, all thanks to the efforts of a committed local community injecting new life into the old mining town.
Where history shines, and adventure begins…
Reefton’s gold rush in the 1860’s helped establish a rich history of innovation, entrepreneurship, adventure, and gold which is continued today. Be charmed by history and inspired by good food and drink, vintage buys and friendly locals. Try your hand at gold panning, jump on a mountain bike, explore the nearby Lewis Pass, or simply soak up Reefton’s quirky, relaxed vibe and enjoy everything the town has to offer.
See & Do
Discover Reefton’s rich heritage, stunning nature, and activities that make it a true West Coast gem.
Stay
Eat & Drink
What’s On
There’s always something happening in Reefton, stay up to date with what’s on around town.
OUR HISTORY
The Town of Light
Originally known as Quartzopolis, the town was established around 1870 to service the largest gold-bearing quartz reefs in the South Island, and later became a coal mining centre.
Mining brought riches, technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. In 1888, Reefton became the first place in New Zealand and the southern hemisphere to have a public supply of electricity and electric street lighting, ahead of fashionable suburbs in London and New York.
Plan Your Trip
Getting Here
Easily accessible, yet wonderfully secluded. Reefton sits in the Inangahua Valley between the Victoria and Paparoa ranges.
FURTHER AFIELD
Ready to explore more? Reefton is the ideal base for discovering the West Coast’s stunning towns and landscapes.
Inspiration
Dreaming of your next getaway? Explore our suggested itineraries and make the most of your time in Reefton.
The Gateway to the Coast
Reefton, the only inland town on the West Coast, is nestled in the Inangahua River Valley between the rugged and spectacular Victoria and Paparoa mountain ranges.
Often called the ‘Gateway to the Coast’ – from here you can adventure into the Buller district and the wider West Coast.
From wild coastlines and alpine passes to national parks and heritage sites, the region is packed with natural beauty and hidden gems. Adventure awaits—right from the heart of Reefton.
Reefton News & Stories
Reefton Trail Collective celebrates one year
One year after the community first came together to talk about creating better trails for Reefton, the Reefton Trail Collective has celebrated how much can be achieved when people get behind a...
2026 Reefton Vehicle Display is bigger and better
The streets of Reefton were buzzing on Saturday 11 July as more than 320 vehicles rolled into town for the annual Reefton Vehicle Display, drawing enthusiasts and visitors from across the country...
2026 Reefton Volunteer Awards
Community spirit shines at the 2026 Reefton Volunteer Awards The 2026 Reefton Volunteer Awards brought the community together on 18 June for a memorable evening, with a packed venue and a fantastic...