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If you're planning a road trip on New Zealand's South Island, the journey from Queenstown to Westport along the West Coast is a must-do for its stunning landscapes, historical significance, and exciting activities. This route offers a mix of adventure, nature, and culture. Here’s a breakdown with travel tips for each destination along the way:
West Coast Trip - Queenstown to Wanaka (1 hour)
Start your journey in Queenstown, the adventure capital. Thrill-seekers can try bungy jumping at the historic Kawarau Bridge or jet boating on the Shotover River. Afterward, drive to Wanaka, known for its more laid-back vibe and stunning lake views.
Travel Tip: If you have time, hike Roy’s Peak early in the morning for epic views or visit Puzzling World for a quirky experience. Book accommodation early in summer as Wanaka gets busy.
Wanaka to Haast (2 hours)
The scenic drive through Haast Pass offers numerous places to stop. Fantail Falls is a peaceful spot for building rock sculptures, and the Blue Pools are a short walk from the road, with their mesmerizingly clear glacial waters.
Travel Tip: Stock up on fuel and snacks in Wanaka, as Haast is remote with limited services. Don’t forget insect repellent—sand flies are common in this region.
Haast to Fox Glacier and Franz Josef (1.5 hours)
Next, visit the Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier, two of the fastest-moving glaciers in the world. According to Māori legend, these glaciers were formed by the frozen tears of Hine Hukatere, mourning her lost lover. Enjoy a walk to the glacier viewpoints or take a helicopter ride for an unforgettable experience. Nearby, Lake Matheson is famous for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
Travel Tip: Weather changes quickly here, so pack layers and a rain jacket. For the best reflections at Lake Matheson, visit early in the morning.
Franz Josef to Hokitika (2 hours)
Continue to Hokitika, a town with a rich history in greenstone (pounamu) carving and gold mining. Visit the stunning Hokitika Gorge with its vivid turquoise waters, and relax by Lake Mapourika for kayaking and tranquil lakeside views.
Travel Tip: Explore Hokitika’s Wildfoods Festival if you're visiting in March, and don’t miss the sunset at Hokitika Beach with its driftwood sculptures.
Hokitika to Punakaiki (1.5 hours)
As you travel north, stop at Punakaiki to marvel at the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, natural limestone formations shaped over millions of years. The Pororari River Track offers a peaceful bush walk through native forests and along the river.
Travel Tip: Visit the Pancake Rocks at high tide for the most dramatic blowhole action. Consider staying in Punakaiki overnight for more time to explore Paparoa National Park.
Punakaiki to Westport (1 hour)
Your final stop is Westport, a town with a deep mining history. Don’t miss a visit to Denniston, once a bustling coal mining town with the world’s steepest incline railway. For outdoor enthusiasts, head to Cape Foulwind to see the seal colony or try white-water rafting on the Buller River.
Travel Tip: Take a guided tour at Denniston to learn more about its coal mining history, and bring a camera for the breathtaking views from the Denniston Plateau.
Best Hikes Near the West Coast
Here are some of the best hikes near the West Coast, perfect for your road trip:
Location: Near Fox Glacier
Distance: 2.6 km loop
Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Famous for its mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman offering views of the lake and surrounding peaks,
Location: Franz Josef Glacier
Distance: 5.4 km round trip
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: A scenic walk that takes you through lush rainforest and across the glacier valley.
Location: Fox Glacier
Distance: 6.4 km round trip
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: This trail takes you through rainforest with panoramic views of the Fox Glacier and surrounding mountains.
Location: Hokitika
Distance: 2 km loop
Duration: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Stunning blue waters surrounded by lush native bush, with swing bridges.
Location: Haast Pass
Distance: 0.5 km round trip
Duration: 10-15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: A quick stop to see this beautiful 23-meter waterfall and build your own rock sculptures by the river.
Location: Punakaiki
Distance: 11 km one way
Duration: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: This track takes you through limestone gorges and rainforest, following the Pororari River with stunning river and forest views
These hikes provide a great mix of glacier views, coastal beauty, and rainforest exploration, making the West Coast a hiker's dream!
PlanGo is here to help you experience the best of New Zealand. If don't want to drive, experience the West Coast with knowledgeable guides, Book your South Island West Coast tour below to include in your trip planning!
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