Paparoa Track

The Paparoa Track opened as a Great Walk in 2019. Located on the West Coast's spectacular Paparoa National Park, this track showcases dramatic coastal cliffs, lush subtropical rainforest, and the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki.

Designed for both walking and mountain biking, the Paparoa Track offers a unique combination of coastal scenery, native forest, and mining heritage sites.

• Dramatic coastal cliffs and Tasman Sea views
• Lush subtropical rainforest and native flora
• Historic Pororari River Gorge and suspension bridges
• Mining heritage sites and interpretive displays
• Mountain biking and walking options
• Modern, comfortable huts with spectacular views

The Paparoa Track requires bookings for huts during the Great Walks season (1 October - 30 April).

What affects availability

• Walkers and mountain bikers: both book the same huts
• West Coast weather: conditions can lead to changed plans and cancellations

How alerts work

When someone cancels, the place goes straight back on sale in DOC's booking system with no notice. We check DOC's booking system around the clock and alert you when a spot opens up for the dates you are watching. You then book it directly with DOC.