Two settlements with colourful mining histories, classic West Coast pubs and a relaxed pace of life are nestled on the banks of the Mokihinui. With the Glasgow Range forming a spectacular backdrop, the seaside village of Mokihinui, and Seddonville -- just 5km upriver -- are quiet getaways boasting miles of untrammelled beaches and tracks.
Between Mokihinui and Seddonville (a right turn off State Highway 67 before crossing the Mokihinui River bridge) is the short but fascinating Chasm Creek Walkway. Formerly the railway line into Seddonville, the walkway now offers easy access to spectacular river and mountain views, beautiful mosses, and a rail tunnel. Portions of the A&E Network’s “The Lost World” were filmed on the walkway, but dinosaurs are not commonly sighted there.
Mokihinui / Seddonville Must Sees
Mokihinui
Mokihinui is a popular holiday destination for New Zealanders who own modest “baches,” or holiday homes, in the settlement. Superb river mouth and surf fishing attracts many, while the springtime whitebait season sees the population swell by several hundred, as regulars come from near and far to fish for the tiny delicacy. The beach at Mokihinui is vast and usually empty; chances are visitors will have it entirely to themselves.
Seddonville
Once the centre of a thriving mining community, Seddonville is now home to a country pub with motel units, campground and, slightly upriver, a wilderness lodge. It is gateway to the upper end of the Charming Creek Walkway and the Mokihinui backcountry, offering tramping, fishing, hunting, whitewater, mountain biking, four wheel driving and gold panning galore.
| WESTPORT TO: | HRS | KMS |
| Hector | 0:22 | 37 |
| Cape Foulwind | 0:10 | 16 |
| Charleston | 0:25 | 22 |
| Reefton | 1:05 | 77 |
| Greymouth | 1:25 | 97 |
| Hokitika | 2:05 | 137 |
| Franz Josef | 3:55 | 276 |
| Haast | 5:50 | 419 |
| Picton | 4:30 | 294 |
| Nelson | 3:30 | 230 |
| Christchurch (via Lewis Pass) | 4:30 | 336 |
| Queenstown | 9:35 | 658 |
