Discover Southland's Coastal Storytelling Route

Riverton-Aparima South Coast Heritage Trail

Stretching 80km along the southern edge of Southland, the Riverton-Aparima South Coast Heritage Trail is a journey through time, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From Waimatuku to Orepuki, this self-guided trail weaves through coastal settlements, estuaries, and forested pockets, revealing the layered history of Māori and early European life in the region.

Trail Highlights

• 14 Heritage Sites: Each stop offers a glimpse into the past—from Māori food gathering sites and early settler industries to shipwrecks and flax mills.
• Flexible Route: Travel in either direction, with the trail deviating from the Southern Scenic Route to uncover hidden gems.
• Local Hospitality: Pause in Riverton, Colac Bay, or Tuatapere to enjoy Southland's warm welcome, local art, and coastal cuisine.

A Journey Through Time

Long before European settlers arrived, Māori communities thrived along the Aparima River estuary, drawn by its rich resources. Subtle traces of their presence remain—woven into the land, stories, and place names. In the 1830s, Riverton (then Jacobs River) became one of New Zealand's earliest European settlements, growing into a hub for farming, fishing, flaxmilling, and boat building.

Today, Riverton is a vibrant seaside town known for its creative community and relaxed charm. The trail invites you to explore this transformation—where history meets the present in a uniquely Southland way.

Trail Map & Site Info

Download the Riverton-Aparima South Coast Heritage Trail Brochure for a detailed map of the 14 heritage sites, historical background and stories. Or visit Te Hikoi Museum & Information Centre in Riverton.