About
Rich heritage, welcoming community, and stunning natural landscapes.
Nestled on the rugged West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island at the mouth of the mighty Buller (Kawatiri) River, Westport is a vibrant coastal town covering about 11.5 km² with a population of around 4,300 people. It’s the main commercial and administrative centre of the Buller District, known for its rich mining heritage, welcoming community, and stunning natural setting against the backdrop of the Paparoa Ranges.
Westport’s unique location makes it an ideal launchpad for exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Northern West Coast. Just minutes from town you’ll find the sheltered white sands of Carters Beach, the rugged headlands and seal colonies at Cape Foulwind, and scenic walking trails that link coastal vistas with lush river estuaries. A little farther afield, the wild beauty of Paparoa National Park and the historic gold-rush villages of Charleston and Punakaiki await, along with rivers, rainforests and remote wilderness that define the region’s adventurous spirit.
Westport’s climate is similar to Nelson and Golden Bay; moderate to warm (normal range of around 9 – 25 celsius), mostly frost-free in winter, but wetter than the Nelson region. The lush sub-tropical nikau palm-studded rainforest needs regular water to stay beautiful and green.