Karamea is a small town with a population of 650 people, and it’s absolutely stunning.
It’s located between the Tasman Sea and the Kahurangi National Park, so there are plenty of natural attractions to explore.
If you’re a hiker, you’ll be happy to know that the Heaphy Track ends in Karamea!
The coastline is rugged and wild, but the warm temperatures keep the Nikau palms, rainforest, and dairy farm pastures flourishing. And don’t even get me started on the magnificent caves that dot the limestone landscape. Karamea truly is a subtropical paradise!
Getting There
Karamea is a picturesque town situated on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand. Although the road trip was lengthy, trust me, it’s totally worth it.
You’ll get to enjoy the most stunning scenery throughout Lewis Pass, Prings Junction, and Victoria Forest. Our trip took about six hours, but we quickly stopped in Reefton to stretch our legs and grab some refreshments.
Karamea is the northernmost West Coast settlement, about 96 kilometers (60 mi) northeast of Westport by road. You should know that, except for a narrow coastal strip, the town and its surrounding area are entirely encircled by Kahurangi National Park to the south, east, and north.
After arriving in Karamea, you’ll need to turn back to continue your journey, as it’s the end of the road. It’s pretty amazing!
Karamea Town
The town is lovely and peaceful, with everything you need right there!
You can easily grab some groceries or get some local info at the general store, small supermarket, or info center.
There are many options for places to stay, like camping grounds, motels, and backpackers, and you’ll definitely want to try Vinnie Cafe’s amazing food – their pies and sandwiches are especially yummy!
If you want something special to take home, check out the art & craft shop. When you need a break, the community library is the perfect spot to relax and read.
Although the town is mainly for hikers exploring the Heaphy Track, it is also perfect for nature lovers such as birdwatchers, geologists, photographers, and mountain bikers.
Karamea Brief History
In the early 1870s, immigrants from Scotland and England arrived in Karamea and the government land with special payment terms. This settlement was totally isolated from the world, and the only contact was by ocean through the harbor.
The road to Karamea over the hilly section north of Mokihinui, known as the Karamea Bluffs, wasn’t opened until 1916.
Back in 1929, Karamea was hit by a terrible earthquake that caused a lot of damage. Sadly, the road that connected Westport to Karamea was badly affected, and the phone lines were down too. This meant that the town was cut off from the rest of the world for some time.
Moreover, the silt blocked the harbor, so the community couldn’t use the road for a few years. To make things right, a team of up to 400 men was hired to repair the road between Mokihinui and Little Wanganui. During the repairs, they used smaller boats to transport people and supplies.
What does the name Karamea mean?
The name Karamea comes from a contraction of the Maori term Kakara-taramea, which refers to the sweet-scented gum produced locally from speargrass leaves. This gum was an important resource for the Maori people, who used it for medicinal purposes and as a chewing gum.
Things to do in Karamea
Karamea is a wonderful town with so much to offer to anyone who loves nature. You’ll be surrounded by the breathtaking Kahurangi National Park and the stunning Tasman Sea, which means endless exploration opportunities exist.
Lake Hanlon
Lake Hanlon is a nice place to visit. It’s easy and takes only 15 to 20 minutes to complete. Even kiddos can handle it! You’ll walk through a forest to check out all the cool trees. Just make sure to wear good shoes, as it can get a bit muddy after rain (and it rains a lot around here on the West Coast).
When we arrived at Lake Hanlon, nobody was present. It is a serene location, quiet except for the sound of ducks in the water and the rustling of leaves in the wind.
A small viewing platform at Lake Hanlon offers an amazing view of the calm lake. If you’re lucky, you may see the trees surrounding the lake beautifully reflected in the water. However, the platform is quite small and could have been located in a better spot.
Apart from taking pictures and admiring the serene beauty of nature, there is little to do at Lake Hanlon. Nonetheless, we enjoyed our time there and captured some stunning shots of the reflecting lake.
Bird Watching at the Estuaries
The Karamea Riverbank Walkway is a relaxing walk. You’ll be delighted to see many birds on your way to the estuary!
You’ll spot pied stilts, oystercatchers, black swans, and blue herons; a white heron might appear if you’re lucky. It’s a lovely experience that any nature lover would enjoy.
Scotts Beach
A great way to experience the stunning beauty of the northern West Coast and the Heaphy Track is to take a day trip to Scotts Beach. It has a beautiful 1.5 km (.6 miles) stretch of golden sand and nikau palms, perfect for a relaxing day out.
You can even camp here and have a picnic in the sheltered area. And the best part? It’s only an hour away if you take the Heaphy Track. So grab your friends and come down to Scotts Beach for a great time!
Heaphy Track Hike
Karamea is an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts and offers one of the best New Zealand Great Walks nearby. The Heaphy Track extends 82km (51 miles) and presents extraordinary views of various landscapes, ranging from rugged coastlines to alpine tussock fields.
Whether you prefer to walk the whole trail or opt for a shorter walk accessible from Karamea, you’ll be able to indulge in some stunning scenery.
Kohaihai Nikay Palms Walk Loop
Kohaihai Nikau Palms Walk is a picturesque journey that commences along the Kohaihai River on the Heaphy Track. As you embark on the trail, you’ll be surrounded by a vibrant and diverse Nikau Palms forest.
This lush forest is home to a dazzling array of trees and flora, including ferns, mosses, and towering trees, providing a mesmerizing canopy overhead.
The refreshing and invigorating ambiance of the walk will make you feel rejuvenated as you traverse the winding path.
Denniston, The Old Mining Town
This remote and isolated location is renowned for its rich mining heritage, which dates back to the 19th century. If you’re adventurous, you can hike up to the plateau by following the historic Denniston incline up the Bridle track. The landscape is pretty cool, with a feeling like you’re in a different time.
I highly recommend visiting Denniston, the old mining town, especially if you are interested in history and nature.
Moria Gate Arch Walk
Moria Gate Arch Walk loop track offers a breathtaking experience for nature enthusiasts. The track leads to a magnificent limestone arch, which stands tall and proud amidst a verdant, picturesque rainforest. The serene ambiance and scenic beauty of this place is truly mesmerizing.
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, I highly recommend this hiking trail. It’s a perfect opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy its calming presence. This trail promises a tranquil and unforgettable outdoor adventure that you don’t want to miss.
Is it Worth Visiting Karamea?
I had an amazing trip filled with unforgettable experiences. Every moment was magical, from exploring lush green forests to relaxing on pristine beaches. I loved observing the wildlife in their natural habitats and learning about their behaviors.
The sound of gently flowing rivers was soothing and calming, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The trip was truly a feast for the senses, and I feel grateful for the opportunity to have experienced it all.