10 October 2026
Cloud about the tops, and a few showers, turning to rain this evening.
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1 / 32Paparoa National Park
Pororari River Track
The Pororari River Track is the pedestrian entry/exit for the Paparoa Great Walk. It follows a spectacular limestone gorge.
Distance
7 km
Walking time
1 hr 30 min
Difficulty
Easy
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Paparoa National Park forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 7:33 am
11 October 2026
Rain, easing in the afternoon, clearing in the evening.
12 October 2026
Mainly fine, isolated showers at night.
13 October 2026
Showers clearing.
14 October 2026
Heavy rain easing to showers.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Pororari River Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Pororari River Track
Just a few steps onto the trail feels like you have stepped into the land before time . As the trail meanders along the river’s edge, limestone cliffs loom above, joined by a jungle of assorted vegetation, from mighty totaras and rata to nikau palms and punga. The well-formed trail has several ups and downs, be mindful of low hanging rocks, slippery steps and even a small cave section to pass through. On reaching a track junction after approx. 1 hour, which is technically the end of the trail, take a short walk up the left-hand track for a couple more minutes to reach a swing bridge which serves as a better final destination and turnaround spot. Return via the same route back to the carpark. If a longer walk is preferred check out the Punakaiki - Pororari Loop which continues up to the right from the track junction adding some extra elevation and kilometers for a 3 hr journey.
Essential information for Pororari River Track
Check with DOC prior to commencing, especially if there have been storms in recent days as the track can be affected by tree fall and is likely to flood in heavy rain. Do not stray from the track as the area is known to have hidden holes and caves formed by the limestone rock in the area.
Huts and campsites
This trail forms part of the Paparoa Great W alk so another 3-4 hrs past the swingbridge brings you to the 20 bunk Pororari Hut (which needs to be booked via the DOC website.) If staying in Punakaiki there are a number of campsites and accommodation options to choose from including Punakaiki Beach Camp which is situated opposite the start of the trail.
Getting there for Pororari River Track
The carpark is located next to the Pororari river bridge which is at the northern end of Punakaiki village opposite the Punakaiki Tavern pub on SH6. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
Dog access for Pororari River Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Pororari River Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.