Heaphy Track Road-End Dispersed Camping (Kohaihai)

The Kohaihai River mouth at the northern end of the Heaphy Track is one of the most dramatic road-ends in New Zealand. Nikau palms crowd the river margin, black sand stretches south, and the Tasman Sea makes itself heard at all hours. Informal camping here is well-established among South Island overlanders doing the West Coast run — park up near the picnic area and you’re in the thick of the bush-meets-beach vibe that defines this coastline. DOC manages the area; a basic shelter and composting toilets are present. Sandflies are legendary here — long sleeves and repellent aren’t optional.

Access from Westport via SH67 north to Karamea, then the unsealed Kohaihai Road to the end — around 100km from Westport, the last stretch on gravel. High-clearance is helpful but not essential in dry conditions. The road can wash out after heavy rain, which happens often on the West Coast. No drinkable water on tap — treat from the river or bring your own. Cell signal drops out well before you reach the carpark.

Nikau palms, black sand, and zero signal.