Reefton, on the West Coast of NZ’s South Island, was one of the first towns to get electric light and is the gateway to many trails today.
It is the only sizable town on the West Coast that’s some way inland. The town got its start in 1871 following the discovery of a gold reef nearby, and was originally called Reef Town. To this day it’s got plenty of atmosphere (mostly smelling of coal-smoke), and is surrounded by historic mine workings.
The town has a lot old-time charm. The 100% New Zealand page on Reefton invites you to:
"Follow the town’s heritage walk past the Reefton School of Mines, the courthouse, Oddfellows Hall, St Xavier’s Convent and the Band Hall. At the Miner’s Hut you can sit in front of the fire, enjoy a cup of tea and watch steel being shaped by a blacksmith."
There are lots of walking and hiking tracks nearby, as well, including the start of the Paparoa Track which I talk about in another post. And also, of course, the Kirwans Track, which people generally do as part of a loop hike.
Original blog post: a-maverick.com/blog/reefton-kirwans-track