Spread over 452,002 hectares, Kahurangi is rightly considered as a ‘Treasured Possession’ of the region. Kahurangi National Park happens to be one of New Zealand’s best attractions. It offers tons of exciting options to make the holiday a memorable one. It is characterized by superbly varied natural and recreational values.
This beautiful park is situated in the North West region of South Island in New Zealand. It stands at Market Cross zone in the Karamea Town of New Zealand.
To reach the hotspot you may board a bus to Mouteka. Mouteka is the main entry point to the Kahurangi Park. Other gateway towns are Karamea, Tapawera, Takaka and Murchison.
Historic Trivia – Kahurangi National Park
In the 14th century Maori occupied a few parts of Kahurangi. Later in 1846, Charles Heaphy and Thomas Brunner were the first Europeans to traverse through the area of the park to the coast. Afterwards well-worn pack tracks were built to access the country’s original goldfields.
Salient Features Of Kahurangi National Park
- Established in 1996, Kahurangi is one of New Zealand’s most recent national parks.
- It is the second largest park in the country
- The area where the park is located is organically complex and is basically composed of sedimentary rock.
- The region is abundant with vegetation.
- Beech Forest rules in the eastern side of the plane whereas Podocarp Forest is dominant towards the west.
- Coastal areas boast of Nikau Palms. Nikau Palms are apparently the sole palm species native to New Zealand.
- Around 80% of the country’s alpine species are found in the highlands of Kahurangi
- Kahurangi serves as a safe abode for several endangered animals like Rock Wren, Spotted Kiwi, Giant Weta and Carnivorous Land Snail.
- It is governed by New Zealand’s Department of Conservation.
Weather in Kahurangi National Park
The weather in this part of the country is usually tropical. If you do not wish to get stuck in the rain visit the reserve between June and August. It’s also the best time to visit the park.
- Monday to Friday: 8.30 am to 5.00 pm
- Saturday to Sunday: 9.00 am to 4.00 pm
Wild Life: New Zealand Falcon, Kea, Kaka, Yellowhead, Blue Duck, Great Spotted Kiwi, Cave Weta, Cave Beetle and Nelson Cave Spider
Kahurangi Park – Recreational Activities
- Caving
- Rafting
- Kayaking
- Bird watching
- Photography
- Fishing
- Tramping
Kahurangi Park Visitor Centre details:
Address : Millers Acre/Taha o te Awa
79 Trafalgar Street
Nelson 7010
Tel: +64 3 546 9339
Related: New Zealand Travel Information | National Parks In US | Top Most Visited National Parks In US