Exploring Aorere Valley
Aorere Valley, south of Collingwood in Golden Bay, South Island, is a charming destination that offers more than just a gateway to the Heaphy Track Great Walk. While the drive through the valley typically takes you through green pasture farmland, it also reveals a collection of interesting sights and activities, even in less-than-ideal weather conditions.
Discovering Local Curiosities
As you journey through the Aorere Valley in Golden Bay, you'll encounter a variety of unique attractions that reflect both the quirky character and its history.
The valley itself was one of the earliest areas in New Zealand to experience a gold rush in the late 1850s. You can see evidence of gold mining on the Aorere Goldfields Track, albeit this was a more industrial pursuit in the 1880s. On the way to the track, you will discover the unusual Devils Boots rock formation.
The green grass that carpets the valley, particularly vibrant after rainfall, provides a striking backdrop for exploring a series of offbeat and memorable sights. Among these is a fascinating junk shop with an eclectic collection and a distinctive, photogenic fence crafted from salvaged objects.
The Rockville Museum in the valley reflects the area's colonial and Māori heritage, including artefacts from the gold mining boom, early settler life, and local industries that have thrived here, such as farming, flax milling, and timber.
Further along the road, you'll discover the extraordinary Langford Store in Bainham, a true local treasure. Established in 1928 by E.R. Langford and operated by four generations of the same family, this store has been continuously serving the remote farming community for over 80 years, acting as both a general store and post office. Stepping inside is like entering a time capsule of rural New Zealand life.
Continuing your drive through the valley’s scenic byways, you’ll reach the picturesque Salisbury Falls. This cascade is tucked into native bush and framed by rugged rock formations, making it a popular spot for photography, picnics, and summer swims. The falls are also near the Heaphy Track trailhead, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks.
How to Get There
To reach Aorere Valley from Collingwood, take Collingwood Bainham Main Road south into the valley. At Bainham, the road becomes Aorere Valley Road and continues to the Heaphy Track trailhead.
Other day tours easily accessible from Collingwood include the Fossil Point Track at Farewell Spit, Cape Farewell and Wharariki Beach. For an even more remote experience, head to Whanganui Inlet, the Kaihoka Lakes and the Paturau River on the West Coast.
