Directions

The Pororari River Track starts at the bridge crossing the Pororari River, one kilometre north of the DoC Visitor Centre. Car parking is available at the bridge.

Pororari River Loop Track

Two new swing bridges now makes this Pororari Track a loop track! This follows a spectacular limestone gorge with two main features a river with huge rocks in deep pools.

And beautiful forest featuring subtle changes from sub-tropical to temperate. There is easy access to the riverbed at several points, including a supurb picnic spot, where the Pororari Track meets the Inland Pack Track near a river ford. The river is suitable for kayaking and swimming when not in flood.

The Pororari River Track starts at the bridge crossing the Pororari River, one kilometre north of the DoC Visitor Centre. Car parking is available at the bridge.

The track follows the Pororari River upstream into the Paparoa National Park. The lower section of the track passes through the Pororari River Gorge - a valley lined on both sides by dramatic limestone cliffs and bluffs towering over the gorge and river.

The track passes through a dense sub-tropical forest of coastal broadleaf plants, nikau palms, tree ferns and towering rata. 15 minutes walk from the bridge is a picnic spot and popular swimming hole during the warmer summer months.

Bird life on the Pororari River Track includes native Weka, a large, brown flightless bird that has a famously feisty and curious personality. Also Tomtits, New Zealand Bush Robins, native Pigeons, Tuis and Bellbirds.

At the end of the gorge, the middle section of the track emerges onto the open Pororari River flats where it intersects with the Inland Pack Track. The Pororari River Track continues across the flatter terrain, following the river until the upper section enters another valley.

Suitable footwear should be worn to complete the track. To complete the walk you should allow 2.5 hours return, however, if you're just out for a short walk, the lower section is very enjoyable for a stroll to stretch the legs.