Reefton lies in a cradle of forested hills by the Inagahua River where roads from Greymouth and Westport converge on their way to the Lewis pass and Canterbury. Reefton was born in a rash of speculation engendered by the deposits of quartz that gave the town its name Reefton (Reef town). Reeftons mining activity has been directed towards deposits of coal that were so often found along with the gold-rich ore. Now with soaring Gold prices there is again more intense interest in Gold with Oceana Gold Limited commencing new mining rights at the original Globe Hill Gold Mine site, (10 km south of Reefton) employing 120 men and mining 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

In recent years coal production has again increased along with dairy farming, tourism and adventure activities.

By reason of its sheltered location, Reefton is remarkably free from winds a situation that results in soaring summer temperatures at the price of intensified cold and mist in the winter.

Victoria Forrest Park encompasses much of the Historic gold and coal mining areas and numerous tracks lead to old gold workings, which are popular with day trampers, mountain bikers and four-wheel drive enthusiasts. There is an excellent panoramic view of the locality of Reefton and the Inangahua Valley from look out point. Turn left off Reefton/Greymouth Highway about 500 m from the Inagahua Bridge. Follow Soldiers Road for about 1 km and turn left where sign posted to follow a forestry road to the lookout.