Six Breathtaking Experiences on the West Coast
As autumn settles across the land, the West Coast beckons with wonders, landscapes and experiences that set it apart from the rest of New Zealand.
This one coastline — 600 km of gorgeous landscapes tucked between the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea — unveils diverse photogenic destinations and friendly, creative communities. Start with a visit to one of these six iconic marvels.
Ōpārara Arches
There’s only one road into Karamea. North of Westport, you’ll discover a primeval forgotten world in the dense palm-frilled rainforests of Kahurangi National Park and the Ōpārara Basin’s fascinating 35 million-year-old caves. Follow a short well-formed track to the impressive Ōpārara Arches or take a thrilling guided tour into the Honeycomb Hill Caves. This vast network of underground passages reveals ancient treasures like the sub-fossil remains of extinct moa and giant hokioi (Haast’s eagle).
Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes
Pancake Rocks and Blowholes — the Coast’s most popular attraction — is just one highlight on the Great Coast Road. The highway between Westport and Greymouth is rated among the world’s best scenic drives by Lonely Planet. There are many reasons to stop at Punakaiki. Visit at high tide for the mesmerizing action at the blowholes then explore Paparoa National Park’s picturesque landscapes and photo-stops, walking and biking trails (from short to the multi-day Paparoa Great Walk).
Hokitika Gorge
Hokitika absolutely deserves the title of the Coast’s coolest little town. There’s an arty vibe to the ‘pounamu capital’ with its quirky driftwood artworks, greenstone carving workshops, lively food culture (nothing less in the town that hosts the Wildfoods Festival), and great accommodations. Photographers prize the Hokitika Gorge for its stunning turquoise blue waters, lush green rainforest and white limestone rocks. A 30-minute drive from town, the short trail is a gentle, accessible walk with a thrilling pedestrian swing bridge.
Haast World Heritage Area
Haast — a small town on the edge of a great wilderness — is the gateway into Te Wahipounamu South West New Zealand, a UNESCO World Heritage Area encompassing four national parks. This outdoor adventure playground is a hub for walking, tramping, wildlife encounters, boating, fishing and hunting in unforgettable landscapes. Launch out on a jet boat river journey or scenic flight into the mountains, explore scenic trails to lakes, wetlands and deserted beaches shrouded with native forest. Jackson Bay is a tiny fishing port with a fresh seafood diner beside a beautiful beach.
Lake Brunner / Moana
Stay a day or stay a while, tranquil Lake Brunner and the tiny settlement of Moana are more than a scenic stop on the stunning TranzAlpine train journey. Lake Brunner’s deep pristine waters are home to prolific wild brown trout and the fishing season is year-round, with boats and guides to hire. Explore lakeside trails, hike into the hills or take your time capturing the snow-capped Southern Alps mirrored on the lake’s inky surface.
Glacier Country
You haven’t seen spectacular until you’ve been to Glacier Country, home of New Zealand’s highest mountains, tallest forests and most accessible glaciers. Spot the creeping ice flows of Franz Josef and Fox from local look-out points, or get up real close walking across the luminous blue ice on a guided heli-hike. There are many ways to experience superlative nature here from short walks and day hikes to skydiving, kayaking, off-roading and soaking in wood-fired hot tubs under the forest canopy or brilliant night skies.
For more information, visit westcoast.co.nz
