


Natural Flames offers a guided walk near Murchison, in the Nelson Tasman region, that combines a 4WD farm safari with a forest walk to a naturally burning flame in the forest floor, discovered by local farmers in 1922. Guides cook billy tea and pancakes over the flames. Tours depart from Murchison Museum, 60 Fairfax Street, and the business holds a 4.9-star Google rating from 42 reviews.
We stopped over in Murchison and did the tour to the Natural Flames everyone talks about—and it absolutely lived up to the hype! It starts with a fun 4WD ride, followed by a beautiful walk through native beech forest, which makes getting there just as enjoyable as the destination itself. Along the way, our guide Wayne shared plenty of interesting stories and insights that really added to the experience. Seeing the flames burning naturally was incredible, and finishing off with the secret-recipe pancakes (seriously, award-worthy) was the perfect touch. Such a unique and memorable experience—highly recommend!
Ludmilla W. · May 2026 · via Google
We did this tour with the idea of including them in our own tours. This is truly a unique experience, but Wayne's knowledge of the area, the flora and fauna were excellent. A must do tour and the only way to see this unique phenomenon.
Driftwood T. · April 2026 · via Google
Our party of 6 had a brilliant experience, thanks Wayne! A lovely drive up a picturesque valley, a hike through stunning native bush and a cup of tea and some of the best pancakes ever at the flames. So lovely!
Amanda W. · March 2026 · via Google
Thanks Wayne, we had an awesome afternoon. First time walking through a South island beech forest and seeing the flames was an experience as well.
Alison · February 2026 · via Google
Can’t recommend this tour enough - quite surely one of the highlights of our South Island trip, lovely and informative tour guide, amazing pancakes and stunning to see the flames right in the forest! Check it out if you are in the region, you won’t be regretting it.
Paul · February 2026 · via Google