My Favourite Walk: Day walks in West Coast’s Oparara Basin
Asmall group of the Tower Trampers had a day at the Oparara Basin Walks that are 11km north of Karamea by car and then 15km inland on McCallums Mill Road.
The trip was a challenge on its own, as it is a 15 km gravel road (corrugated in some parts) with height restrictions (2.8 m) and one way in many places, but just like tramping if you take your time you can do anything.
After arriving at the car park we checked out the information boards about the area and the short walks which are all well marked.
First we headed to the Oparara Arch which is natural limestone. The walk one way was about 25 minutes along the Oparara River and then to the cave which were both amazing. The bush was reasonably green even though it had been very dry on the West Coast. We had a good look
around and took heaps of photos.
After heading back to the carpark we checked out all the info again, to look for other walks.
It was decided to do the Moria Gate Arch and Mirror Tarn Loop walk estimated to be about 90 minutes It took us longer as we spent a bit of time looking around and soaking in the scenery. The scenery in the cave just blew us away inside the cave.
We had a bit of a climb down holding onto a chain but no problem at all. We were certainly mezmerised by what we saw as this was all new to us. It was rather spectacular inside. A great experience with the limestone and the reflections in the water.
It was now some time for lunch and we had our tea and coffee with us as well.
Our next idea was to drive to Crazy Paving and Box Canyon Caves about 4km further down the road. We thought seeing we had come this far it was definitely worth checking them out as well.
Luckily we had our torches with us as well. This was another fascinating experience, it was only a five minute walk to the caves and worth every minute.
What a special place the Oparara Basin is.
We had made a complete days outing and headed to The Last Resort at Karamea for drinks and then went back to our lodgings at Westport where we were staying.
It was a great day for us all and next time we would definitely spend more time at Karamea.