Do
From making your own knife to blissfully paddling the Pororari River, exploring the local history displays created by Peter Jackson’s Weta Workshop, discovering local craftsmen and women and more- there is always something interesting to do here!
2 minutes up the road you will find the world famous Barrytown knife maker. For $220 you get a 1 day workshop where you get to make your own knife with a group of up to 8 other people. Complimentary lunch and glass of wine provided.
15 minutes north by car, Waka puna is situated near the mouth of the Pororari River (second river) in Punakaiki. Costs from $50-$120 for 2 or more hours. Had a great outing for my birthday apart from drowning my phone when my kayak got stuck against a log in the rapids.
Paparoa National Park Visitor Centre
Newly opned in 2024 the centre features an interactive experience based on the landscape, heritage, and wildlife of the Paparoa National Park and surrounding areas. The centre contains a cafe, DOC information centre, gift shop and toilets. Cost for interactive experience is $45pp. 
This award winning Eco-tourissm venture was established in 1987 by Denise Howard and Bruce Stuart-Menteath when they discovered the petrels breeding on land adjacent to their farm. Their guided tours provide unique wildlife experience and insights into the environmental and conservation issues that all petrel species around the world face.
Golden Sands Horse and Wagon Tours
NZ famous venue for all things alternative- music, drama, mid winter balls and more and just 3 minutes up the Coast Road. Check out their Facebook page for what is coming up to catch a show.
Barrytown Hall
NZ famous venue for all things alternative- music, drama, mid winter balls and more and just 3 minutes up the Coast Road. Check out their Facebook page for what is coming up to catch a show.
Open Mike night
During the summer months Pancake Rocks cafe at Punakaiki hosts an Open Mike night on the first Friday of the month. You may even see yours truely perform
Fox River Market
30 minutes north along the most gorgeous part of the Coast road, the Market runs every Sunday during summer from 9am- 2pm. During winter a car boot sale operates. A great selection of hand made crafts, second hand clothes, food and live music- including open mic.