A West Coast Adventure
The Kawatiri Coastal Trail is a cycling and walking heritage trail connecting the Buller District towns of Westport and Charleston.
The Buller Bridge trail carpark is closed temporarily. The trail will remain open and unaffected during this time.
ABOUT THE TRAIL
Often called ‘New Zealand’s longest short ride’, thanks to the stunning mix of coastal views, native bush and ever-changing scenery packed into just 40km.
Diverse landscapes combine to create a memorable journey across eight sections, with multiple access points allowing users to complete the trail in full or in parts. Each turn reveals ever changing coastline and dramatic natural scenery.
The breathtaking route weaves through an enviable mix of rugged cliffs, crashing seas, native wildlife and lush forest. Along the way, users encounter suspension bridges, boardwalks, pristine wetlands, shelters and interpretive signage sharing remarkable stories and local secrets. With views stretching from mountains to sea, the trail passes through highlights including Carters Beach, Cape Foulwind, Tauranga Bay, Ōkari, Tōtara and Charleston.
Trail
Sections
Kilometres
of Trail
With some short Grade 3 areas
Trail Sections
The trail is Grade 2 with some short Grade 3 areas. Click on the sections below for more details.
PŪWAHA
Section 1
5.0 km
Westport - Carters Beach
100% Grade 2
OPEN
KAWAU
Section 2
8.0 km
Carters Beach - Cape Foulwind
95% Grade 2 – 5% Grade 3
OPEN
Omau
Section 3
3.5 km
50% Grade 2 – 50% Grade 3
OPEN
Tauranga
Section 4
5.5 km
Tauranga Bay - Ōkari Lagoon
100% Grade 2
OPEN
Ōkari
Section 5
6.5 km
Ōkari Lagoon - Virgin Flat Road
70% Grade 2 – 30% Grade 3
OPEN
Tōtara
Section 6
5 km
80% Grade 2 – 20% Grade 3
OPEN
Rahui
Section 7
5.5 km
100% Grade 2
OPEN
Waitakere
Section 8
1 km
Nile River – Charleston
90% Grade 2 – 10% Grade 3
OPEN
The area’s unique geology, diverse ecology, extensive Māori and European history and vast seascapes make this one of New Zealand’s finest day or multi-day rides.
Following a dedicated cycle path between Westport and Charleston, the awe-inspiring heritage trail offers riders an invigorating experience along a truly spectacular coastline. Along a wide, smooth path through podocarp forest, nikau palms and expansive beaches, riders journey back in time to the days of Māori Pounamu gatherers and the glittering gold rush era.
The trail can be ridden in either direction, with the option to slow down the pace and split into shorter rides, taking in major highlights along the way.
Tales from the Trail
Kawatiri Coastal Trail presented with Outdoor Access Champion Award
National recognition for a trail built by many handsMarch 23, 2026 Almost exactly one year on from its official opening, the Kawatiri Coastal Trail has been formally presented with the national Outdoor Access Champion Award - a meaningful milestone for a project...
National Recognition for the KCT
The Kawatiri Coastal Trail has been named the national Outdoor Access Champion, recognising its impact on public access, community wellbeing and regional resilience.
Fewer Predators, More Birdsong
Over the past year, the dedicated volunteer team at TOKEN has continued its vital mahi to protect the great spotted kiwi and other precious birdlife along the Kawatiri Coastal Trail.