Flowing through rugged valleys and historic towns, the Inangahua River is a true West Coast treasure. Winding its way from the Reefton hills to the Buller River, this river offers more than just postcard-perfect views — it’s a place rich in gold mining history, native bush, and adventurous spirit.

Whether you’re into scenic drives, kayaking, fly fishing, or just looking to sit by the river and listen to the water flow, the Inangahua offers a peaceful yet powerful slice of Aotearoa’s natural beauty.

Where It Flows 📍

Source: Near the Victoria Forest Park, east of Reefton

Direction: Flows northwest, joining the Buller River near the town of Inangahua Junction

Closest towns: Reefton, Inangahua, and Westport (about 1 hr drive)

This river runs through landscapes steeped in history — from early gold rush settlements to the aftermath of the 1968 Inangahua Earthquake.

What to Do Along the River 🚣‍♀️🎣

Fishing the Inangahua 🎣

A fly-fishing haven, the Inangahua is known for:

Clear, cold waters

Healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout

Peaceful, uncrowded riverbanks — perfect for solo anglers or those learning the craft

🐟 Best times to fish? Spring and summer, especially early morning or late afternoon.

Kayaking & Canoeing 🚣‍♂️

Sections of the river are ideal for gentle paddling. You’ll be surrounded by beech forest, birdsong, and reflections dancing on the water. While it’s not a white-water hotspot, the tranquillity is what makes it special.

Historic Stops & Scenic Detours ⛏️

Reefton: Explore New Zealand’s first town to have electric street lighting and learn about its gold mining past.

Inangahua Junction Earthquake Museum: A small but fascinating insight into the 1968 quake that reshaped the region.

Buller Gorge Swingbridge: A bit downstream, but well worth the visit — New Zealand’s longest swingbridge and home to ziplining fun.

Nature & Wildlife 🌲🦜

Keep your eyes open for:

Kererū, bellbirds, and fantails in the surrounding bush

Native beech forests along the riverbanks

Eels and trout visible in shallow, clear sections

The Victoria Forest Park above the river is full of trails and remote huts for those looking to hike deeper into the wilderness.

Why I Loved It 💚

The Inangahua River feels like the quiet cousin of the big-name West Coast attractions — and that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a place where you can breathe deeply, skip stones across the surface, and reconnect with nature at a slower pace. For photographers, paddlers, and soul-searchers, it’s pure West Coast magic.