Local scenic drives

Press, 15 June 1978, Page 21

Local scenic drives

Westport’s County Clerk, Mr R. M. Elley, says that the historic areas in Buller are becoming increasingly popular with visitors. Most points of interest can now be reached on sealed roads, and this includes many old townships, the Dennistoun mines, which are a 40-minute drive from Westport, and the Miller-ton-Stockton mines, which are one hour and a quarter away on the scenic road north of Westport. Earlier this year, the roads along both tips on either side of the Westport bar were sealed. These afford splendid views and easier access for the many fishermen who visit the area. The upgrading programme on the road between Westport and Greymouth will be completed in 18 months. Extensive widening and realignment is' being undertaken. But the road that Mr Elley felt all tourists should see is the road between West-

port and Karamea. About fOkm in length, this sealed and scenic highway takes in the spectacular Karamea Bluff, where the panoramic view includes the burning mine at Millerton. Here the native bush includes Nikau palms and giant pongas, as well as rata in summer. The Heaphy and Wangapeka tracks are still attracting large crowds of trampers to Buller and Karamea. In the town of Karamea, the 18-month old Youth Hostel has 2030 beds and a resident warden.