About the Oparara

Tucked away in a corner of Kahurangi National Park, The Oparara has a magic all of its own, born of a million years of undisturbed isolation.

The Oparara’s affinity with Tolkien’s mystical forests is today reflected in the Lord of the Rings names now scattered throughout the Basin.

Rich unspoiled rainforest stretching across a broad valley floor, three magnificent arches sculpted by the Oparara River, bush-fringed streams stained the colour of billy tea from the humic acids washing down through the soil, and an underground treasure hidden away in a highly complex cave system, combine to make this remarkable area one of immense national and international significance.